The Journey Parent Podcast

Guest: Erin Williams, LPC, PCA US Counselor Erin recommends Jess Connolly’s book Breaking Free from Body Shame: Dare to Reclaim What God Has Named Good as a good resource and launching point for conversations about body image, God’s design, God’s goodness in our lives, and our struggles to embrace God’s best for us when it conflicts with the world’s narrative Another good resource for wrestling with body image issues from a biblical perspective includes the work and writings of Heather Creekmore made available on her website Compared to Who? Scripture refers to our bodies as temples…and tents…both are important to understand - temples meaning that our bodies are important, valuable - we actually carry the Holy Spirit with us - and tents meaning that our bodies are temporary and should be held in the proper perspective of eternal things…as Christians we have this tension between this world…and the next - we are citizens of both! Our bodies are “good” - but aren’t they also “broken” and flawed because of the curse of sin - and working to “better” our bodies doesn’t always have to be trying to beat the curse…can’t it also be just working to better what’s broken? Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guests: Michael Perron, Minister over Life Recovery, and Tim Matthews, Minimester to Adults, at Prestonwood Baptist Church Dr. Jack Graham - Don’t just curse the darkness; light a candle. James 1:27 - Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world. Prestonwood is hosting The Chosen Conference on Saturday, April 13, 2024 from 8:30 am - 7:00 pm. Speakers at this conference include Sadie Robertson Huff, Korie Robertson, Texas Governor Greg Abbott, Scott Turner, Gregg Matte, and Shane and Kasi Pruitt. The conference will highlight the needs relating to adoption and foster care as well as give practical ideas how you can make a difference on this front. Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

18 destinations (10 international, 8 domestic) plus local missions across two campuses sending thousands of students and faculty across the globe and right next door to share the Good News that Jesus Christ came, lived, died, and rose again and that there is life eternal by grace through faith in Him. Students serving as the hands and feet of Jesus, packing food for the needy, collecting items for the homeless, offering coffee and a smile just for the opportunity to tell one more person that Jesus loves them - Minimester 2024 is in the books and the stories of God’s goodness, His provision, His protection, His providence are what motivate PCA to continue this program year after year. Minimester is more than a week-long mission/service opportunity; it’s a year-long, campus-wide effort to equip students to be bold witnesses and faithful servants. Thank you to the students and faculty for sharing their stories and perspectives on the importance of PCA’s Minimester program. We pray that we never take for granted God working in and through the PCA community to impact the world for His glory. Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guest: June Hunt Bonding with Your Teens Through Boundaries by June Hunt. Discover a balanced, biblical way to set appropriate boundaries that will prepare your teen to live an independent, self-controlled, successful life. JUNE HUNT, one of the world's leading Christian counselors, shows you how. Using scores of tough real-life scenarios, June helps you learn to use boundaries--each linked to specific repercussions and rewards--to guide your teen through four critical areas of life: home, school, personal, and social. Each scenario is followed by concrete advice on what to do and what to say.Once you communicate the boundaries, your teen has a choice: Cross them or stay inside. At that point, the teenager--not you, the parent--chooses to receive the repercussion or reward. Behavior becomes linked to consequences, building maturity, trust and security. Practical and realistic in its tone, June's biblical guidance helps you win--not a war, but a relationship of mutual respect. The Hope Center houses 64 different ministries in this one facility, which is an incredible stewardship opportunity for these ministries. Hope for the Heart is a worldwide biblical resource ministry, founded by June Hunt, that offers biblical hope and practical wisdom on over one hundred relevant topics facing individuals, families, and the church today! The different elements of June’s ministry include the following: Keys for Living Library Short helpful books with clear answers from God’s answer and concise, practical guidance on life’s challenges. Lifeline to Hope A suite of video-based courses on lay caregiving designed to equip people to provide support, encouragement, and spiritual care to those in need. International Christian Coaching Institute (ICCI) A global network of like-minded Christian coaches with online courses, credentialing, and certifications – bringing life and living into focus. Radio Broadcast Hope in the Night is a live, one-hour, call-in counseling program with June Hunt sharing biblical guidance to real callers facing real challenges. June’s Place Helpful books, Bible studies, music, and more from Hope for the Heart Founder, June Hunt. Counseling Services HopeWorks Counseling provides professional counseling (in-person and teletherapy) for individuals, couples, families, and groups. Free Downloads Find quick answers and biblical guidance to everyday problems with our free, downloadable life guides. Social Media Follow Hope for the Heart on Facebook to receive encouraging posts from God’s Word, blog articles to help you grow in your faith, and discounts on our biblical resources and training courses. You can also follow June Hunt on Facebook here! Also, check out the incredible Mental Health & The Church conference with June Hunt, George Barna, Greg Stier, Haley Scully, and Dr. Eric Scalise on Saturday, June 22, 2024 at the Plano Event Center from 9am-5pm. This event is for anyone called to care for those around them…including parents, youth pastors, coaches, and teachers. Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guest: Hope Harris Hope is a former “loud and proud” lesbian activist from Seattle who surrendered her life and sexuality to Christ about fifteen years ago. Her spiritual journey with Christ began when a friend asked Hope what she really wanted in life and when Hope responded with “peace,” her friend showed Hope the peace with God made possible by the work of Jesus Christ on the cross - see John 14:27. The verse in Scripture that jumped off the page to Hope was found in 1 Corinthians 6:9-11, which reads: Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God. God’s intended design is what is best for each person. God does not withhold what is best. His design for gender and sexuality gives healthy boundaries and relationships that help us know what is best, healthy, and beneficial to human flourishing. Because God is relational, we as human beings created in the image of God are designed to be relational as well. We are designed to be in community and to live lives with purpose and meaning beyond what feels best for our own self-interest. “You are” messages translate into “I am” concepts in the minds of many young people. Be very careful what you say to others - words have power. Part of parenting is to model what healthy gender and sexuality really are for others to see. Fighting back against the lies of this world is really a discipleship issue. Are you discipling your children, grounding them in the Word of God, and building them up to be the men and women that God has created and designed for them to be? Remember that people, even if we disagree with them, are not our enemies. Scripture reminds us that our “battle isn’t against flesh and blood, but against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:12). Hope’s Recommended Resources: Homosexuality and the Christian: A Guide for Parents, Pastors, and Friends by Mark Yarhouse Talking to Kids about Gender Identity: A Roadmap for Christian Compassion, Civility, and Conviction by Mark Yarhouse Feelings are real, but they are not reliable. Also, parents, we need to discuss God’s design for gender and sexuality - if they aren’t hearing the truth from us, they are learning lies from the world. Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guests: Leanne Jamison, Alana Campbell, Whitney Freeman, and Dalton McGaha The work and ministry of the Prestonwood Pregnancy Center is vital and as important as ever, even after the overturning of Roe v. Wade by the recent Dobbs decision, saving the lives of the unborn and helping families in crisis is an incredible opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus to those who are in need of love and care. But the pregnancy center needs YOU to help - to volunteer, to serve, to ministry, to give. Listen to this moving and powerful powerful podcast featuring some PCA parents just like you as they tell about how they got involved and the difference their time and energies make in the lives of others! And then connect with the Prestonwood Pregnancy Center - set up a diaper drive, donate items on their Amazon wish list, volunteer some of your time, and give some of your resources to help continue their incredible work! Also remember the Chosen conference is just around the corner on Saturday, April 13th. This conference is a national gathering of life-affirming leaders and organizations providing information, resources, and support about adoption and foster care. Dynamic keynote speakers who have a passion for the sanctity of life and a heart for children in desperate need of a “forever home” include Gregg Matte, Sadie Robertson Huff, Korie Robertson, and Shane & Kasi Pruitt. Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guest: Dr. Leo (Jake) Hebert III, Research Scientist, Institute for Creation Research (ICR) April 8th will feature a total eclipse and Dallas, TX is in the path of totality. To learn more about the path of totality and what you need to do to prepare, visit NASA’s site here. You can also pay attention to our friends at Day 4 Astronomy. You will need some special glasses to view the eclipse - lots of places are selling them, make sure they are NASA certified. The solar system is remarkable for how young it appears and new research continues to support a young universe. Check out the latest articles at ICR that point toward evidence for a young universe. To read more about how blue stars point to a young universe, check out this article at ICR. Evolution has a problem with their origin story for the creation of stars. Check out Dr. Hebert’s latest article on the ice sheets and how they demonstrate a young earth. Check our Dr. Hebert’s article on delayed maturation and extreme longevity in the pre-flood era. Check out the ICR Discovery Center for Science and Earth History. Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guest: Dr. Tim Clarey, Director of Research, Institute for Creation Research (ICR) What’s new in the world of science - plate tectonics! The movement of the sea floor had a dramatic impact on the impact of the Flood - and the more recent discoveries give more evidence for a worldwide and catastrophic Flood. Dr. John Baumgardner has done some amazing research in this area - you can read more about this here. Dr. Clarey’s research shows evidence for a “progressive” and worldwide flood as well as deposits of marine fossils in places where water just shouldn’t be unless there was a worldwide flood. To learn more about the fossil record and how scientists use this for dating strata, check out these resources at ICR. You’ll want to check out The Discovery Center at ICR - here’s what you can expect there: Planetarium shows Engaging exhibits that teach the origin of the universe and how science affirms the Bible Animatronic creatures, special effects, and a chilly Ice Age theater Fascinating facts about DNA and human ancestry, fossils and rocks, dinosaurs, and astronomy Development and application of critical thinking skills while discovering the latest scientific research A Bible-based journey through Earth's history, highlighting scientific discoveries along the way Special events will include live presentations by scientists and scholars A resource store full of creation-based science resources and educational kits Read more about the latest discoveries related to “feathered dinosaurs” and the Biblical narrative that God created animals according to their kind. Also read more about the six biological evidences for a young earth by ICR. Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guest: Ben Quine, Vice President of Christians Engaged Christians Engaged is encouraging and equipping Christians to PRAY, VOTE, and ENGAGE the culture for Christ! 1 Timothy 2:2 - Paul calls for Christians to pray “for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.” The Primary Election date is Tuesday, March 5th - and Early Voting is from Feb. 20th to March 1st The runoff for the primary election will be May 28th The General Election is Tuesday, November 5th To learn more about the Party Platforms and their positions on important issues of our day, get this Biblical Roadmap to the Party Platforms. Mike Johnson’s 7 Core Principles of Conservativism Individual Freedom Limited Government The Rule of Law Peace through Strength Fiscal Responsibility Free Markets Human Dignity In preparation for Easter, check out this Living Hope Devotional - a 5 week journey into the powerful story of the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ - our “living hope.” The first four weeks of the book will strengthen your heart, soul, and mind by working through a different spiritual discipline each week. Those disciplines will set the table for week five - Holy Week. Cost is $10. Order yours now to get it in time for you to start five weeks before Easter! Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guests: Megan Rogers, Senior Director of Development and Stewardship and Lauren Aulenbach, Director of Annual Funds Check out the PCA Alumni podcast called LifeTalk The Zig Ziglar Servant Leadership Award Banquet will be held at 6 pm on Sunday, April 21st at The Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, TX The attire for the event is “western” - so put on the boots and jeans and come on out! This year’s award recipient is John C. Maxwell, known for his Maxwell Leadership training and resources. To sponsor a table, visit the Zig Ziglar Servant Leadership website. PCA alumni, when you donate, all of the dollars that you give go toward the PCA Alunni Endowment Fund that helps PCA alumni financially afford PCA. Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guests: Coleman Bales (North campus, junior), Trinity Elliot (North campus, senior), Katelyn Teague (Plano campus, senior), and Campbell Panetti (Plano campus, junior) Freedom Weekend at Prestonwood is February 2-4, 7 at both the Prestonwood Plano and North campuses. To find out more about Freedom Weekend, MDWK (MidWeek) Bible studies, LifeGroups on Sunday, Lead Team, Beach Camp, Parent Resources, and other ways to connect with Prestonwood as a student or parent, check out www.prestonwoodstudents.org Parents, there is also a parent training opportunity on Sunday morning, February 4th at the Plano campus with Lisa Clark in Room A112 at 9:30 am. To join in praying for Freedom Weekend text PRAY4FREEDOM to 74788. To learn more about the student choir mission trips, check out www.prestonwoodstudentworship.org. Students are able to get involved in additional opportunities like Fall Follies and the Gift of Christmas (GOC) as well. Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guests: Johnny Farr and Nick Bellamy As we look to equip you as parents for meaningful and intentional spiritual training, pointing you to good resources and books is a practical way to prepare you to better train your children “in the fear and admonition of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4). We will also look to address other media avenues, such as movies, to help equip you, the parents, for those quality conversations around the dinner table or on your drive to and from school. Our first resource that we are reviewing and strongly recommending is Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Family by Paul David Tripp. From the book Parenting: Introduction Good parents don’t always produce good kids, and parents should constantly be asking themselves where they get the set of values that tell them whether they have “good” kids or not. Chapter 1 Calling Principle: Nothing is more important in your life than being one of God’s tools to form a human soul. Chapter 2 Grace Here’s the humbling conclusion that God, in grace, led me to: I am more like my children than unlike them - and so are you! Chapter 4 Inability Parenting is not about exercising power for change in your children. Parenting is about your humble faithfulness in being willing to participate in God’s work of change for the sake of your children. Chapter 5 Identity Principle: If you are not resting as a parent in your identity in Christ, you will look for identity in your children. How do you know if you’re putting your identity on the shoulders of your children? Too much focus on success. Too much concern about reputation. Too great a desire for control. Too much emphasis on doing rather than being. Too much temptation to make it personal. Chapter 6 Process Principle: You must be committed as a parent to long-view parenting because change is a process and not an event. Chapter 8 Authority Do you humbly own the rebellion of your own heart as you deal with the rebellion of your children in a way that causes you to exercise authority with patience and grace? Chapter 9 Foolishness Principle: The foolishness inside your children is more dangerous to them than the temptation outside of them. Only God’s grace has the power to rescue fools. Chapter 12 Control Principle: The goal of parenting is not control of behavior, but rather heart and life change. Chapter 14 Mercy Principle: No parent gives mercy better than one who is convinced that he desperately needs it himself. Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guests: PCA Alumni Pateel Toranian (‘23), Isabelle Simpson (‘20), and Hunter Hall (‘20) What a blessing it was to hear from Pateel Toranian (Class of 2023, currently at the University of Texas - Austin), Isabelle Simpson (Class of 2020, currently at Texas Tech University), and Hunter Hall (Class of 2020, currently at Texas A&M University) - they shared some practical wisdom with our US students at chapel and I was able to catch them before they returned to college to have their share about the impact that PCA has and is making in their lives and spiritual journeys. All three of these students had parents who were involved in their spiritual development as well as the other “legs of the stool” - involvement in a good Bible-teaching church and the Christ-centered, Biblical worldview intensive aspects of Prestonwood Christian Academy. The Biblical worldview training that a student receives at PCA is not only foundational for success at PCA and in college, but also for a “successful and prosperous” life as defined by God’s economy (see Joshua 1:8). All three of these students are continuing their spiritual maturity while in college - they are all plugged into a solid church and Christian community and continuing their own personal spiritual growth! When we talk about The Portrait of a PCA Graduate, the concepts that are important are a reverence for God, an eternal perspective, humility, a rigorous academic learning process, and high expectations and accountability. Each of these students embody those characteristics of a PCA Graduate! How much do you have to hate someone - statement from magician Penn Jillette following a situation where a man shared about the life-transforming power of Jesus Christ. The students also shared about the incredible and eternal impact of PCA’s Minimester program - coming up again in March - be praying for our students who will be traveling across the globe to share the love of Jesus! Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guests: Angie Gray, Chief Enrollment and Marketing Officer for PCA, and Emery Petroff, PCA’s Ambassador Board member, Finance and Operations committee PCA’s re-enrollment begins on January 15 and concludes on January 31 for existing PCA families. At that time, spots will be open for those looking to enroll their students in PCA for the next school year who are not currently enrolled at PCA. Re-enrollment is a vital component of maintaining the spirit and vibrancy of the PCA community and over the years more than 90% of families at PCA chose to re-enroll their students for the following year, which is a remarkable achievement. Part of the decision-making process for families considering PCA is the tuition and each year that tuition amount is determined by key leadership personnel at PCA and approved by the FiOps committee, and then the entire Ambassador Board at PCA. Dr. Goddard recently sent out an email informing parents of the minimal increase of 2% for the 2024-25 school year and the conversation with Angie Gray and Emery Petroff will hopefully help you understand how this decision was reached. As Dr. Goddard wrote in his email, “We realize and appreciate the sacrifice you [parents/families] make each year to provide your children with a Kingdom education. We are grateful for the privilege of partnering with you to provide a Kingdom education for your student. Together we will continue our mission, establishing students for life and building Faith-Filled Lions.” If you have any questions about re-enrollment as a current PCA family or wish to learn more about enrolling your child(ren) at PCA in the future, please contact Angie Gray, Chief Enrollment and Marketing Officer at 972-930-4007 or via email at [email protected] Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guests: Coach Shawn Purcell, Tucker Richardson, Jackson McAdams, Reid Thornberry, and Mason Purcell Tucker Richardson is a senior at PCA North and played linebacker and receiver. Tucker earned 1st team All-State honors as a receiver and 2nd team All-State honors as a linebacker. Jackson McAdams is a senior at PCA North and played defensive line. Jackson earned 2nd team All-State honors for that position. Reid Thornberry is a junior at PCA North and played tight end and defensive line. Reid earned 1st team All-State honors for both positions. Mason Purcell is a junior at PCA North and played safety. Mason earned 1st team All-State honors for that position. Coach Shawn Purcell has been coaching football at PCA North for four seasons (26 seasons all together) and this championship is Coach Purcell’s first state championship! The expectations that Coach Purcell set for his team were taken up by the captains and implemented into all facets of the team. One example was that the team cleaned their buses and locker rooms after they were finished - leaving things better than they found them! The 2023 team finished the season with an 11-1 record outsourcing their opponents 668 to 195 over these games. PCA North Lions captured the first team state championship in its history beating Baytown Christian 70-22 for the TAPPS Division III six-man title. Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guest: Karol Ladd Known as “the Positive Lady,” Karol Ladd inspires men and women around the world with a message of lasting hope and Biblical truth. Karol is open, honest and real in both her speaking and her writing. Formerly a teacher, Karol is the best-selling author of over 35 books including The Power of a Positive Mom, Positive Leadership Principles for Women and her newest book, Becoming a Woman of the Word Wisdom for parents with children in Lower School: This can be one of the most difficult times in life - you are stretched thin, tired, and have so many things tugging at you! But at those times when you’re at your weakest, we need to lean into God - when we are weak, He is strong. Remember that you don’t have to “do everything” - look to the Lord for guidance and prudence! Psalm 145:14 - The Lord upholds all who are falling and raises up all who are bowed down. Wisdom for parents with children in Middle School: Important time for parents to be “present” - offer emotional strength and patience as your child adjusts to all the hormonal changes happening in their bodies. Before reacting, ask the Lord for discernment - to see the heart of your child, not just the outside “prickliness.” Middle School students are not a finished product! Great time to listen to the heart of your child - dinner time conversations! Wisdom for parents with children in Upper School: Good to guide your children toward activities that help use their God-given giftings. Pay close attention to their “friends” - who is influencing your child? Be hospitable, have those friends in your home to influence them as well. Your children are watching you - model an authentic walk with and love for the Lord! The Gospel Comes with a House Key: Practicing Radically Ordinary Hospitality in Our Post-Christian World by Rosaria Butterfield Encouragement for grandparents: Psalm 145:4 - One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts. Grandparents, now is the time to share that wisdom and experience with the generations coming up! Goal - to do more ministry in your final “lap” than all your years up to this point! Check out Gun Lap: Staying in the Race with Purpose by Robert Wohlgemuth Looking for a great place to take your grandkids - check out the Institute for Creation Research (ICR) Discovery Center right here in Dallas! Marco Polo app - a video chat app “that brings you closer to the people who matter most without asking you to compromise on trust” Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guest: Dr. Jeremiah Johnston, Dean of Spiritual Development at PCA and Associate Pastor of Apologetics & Cultural Engagement at Prestonwood Baptist Church To learn more about the impact of the Dobbs decision, check out this article from The Ethics and Religious Liberties Commission of the Southern Baptist Commission called “What Christians Should Know About Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization.” The Faith Integration Planner is part of the PCA faculty training initiative to train our instructional staff how to integrate their faith and God’s Word into their lessons plans from PreK-12th grade and in every subject and activity! Faith training begins in the home. Parents need to lead the way by modeling a vibrant and growing faith setting the example for children to follow. PCA is committed to equipping and empowering parents to live out their dynamic and authentic faith and pass on their legacy of faith from generation to generation! Faith integration is most powerful when all three legs of the proverbial stool - the home, the church, and the school - are working together, creating a synergy of faith and a concert of Christian voices speaking truth and encouragement to students. Dr. Johnston has some recommendations for parents: Listen to and share The Journey podcast each week - share it with other parents at PCA and with parents who don’t have kids at PCA - they need to be equipped with the truth as well! Get connected and involved with as many things happening at PCA and the life of your students. Middle School parents especially should be looking to connect with their students during the Pride of Brothers and Society of Sisters opportunities. Also, ask your students about chapel topics, what they learned, and how you as a family can integrate those biblical truths into your family! Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guests: Sherry Smith, Tricia Panetti, and Emery Petrof Emery - research from the Mayo Clinic - expressing gratitude is associated with a host of mental and physical benefits - studies have shown that feeling thankful can improve sleep, mood, and immunity in today’s world. Gratitude can decrease depression, anxiety, difficulties with chronic pain and disease. If a pill could do this, everybody would take it! Furthermore, a person can not feel both gratitude and anxiety at the same time. Sherry - the most important factor in developing gratitude in my children is modeling it for them to see! Tricia - the attitude of gratitude starts with me - we can’t expect others to have something that we don’t. Gratitude starts with being aware of your surroundings - the world doesn’t revolve around you! Emery - we start every prayer with gratitude - and just because we can, doesn’t mean that we should. We also look for opportunities to give back to others. Sherry - a heart of gratitude is developed through hands that serve. Tricia - learning to verbalize gratitude/appreciation/thankfulness is vital for our kids. Time in the car can be a great training opportunity with your kids! Looking for an opportunity to serve the Lord and your community, connect with the incredible ministries of GraceBridge and Operation Christmas Child. Also appreciate what God is doing in and through the lives of our PCA students/community through Minimester collections, service opportunities, and evangelistic outreach. What Bible verses/stories come to mind when you talk about gratitude with your family? 1 Thessalonians 5:16 - Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Proverbs 12:25 - Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad. Philippians 4:6 - Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guest: Dr. Jeremiah Johnston, Dean of Spiritual Development at PCA and Associate Pastor of Apologetics & Cultural Engagement at Prestonwood Baptist Church The Jewish people were chosen and given land by God. Not only is this land under dispute, but the very existence of the Jews is under attack today! The Palestinian chant, “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free” is not simply a call to throw off unwanted oppression from the nation of Israel, but is a call for genocide - the elimination and extinction of the Jewish people. Ideas have consequences, bad ideas have victims. The Khartoum Resolution was put forth in September 1967 and is best known for the “Three Noes” - no recognition, no negotiation, no peace. Many have made this observation: if Israel laid down their weapons, the people of Israel would be eliminated; but if Palestine laid down their weapons, there would be peace in the Middle East. As Christians, we need to be asking what are the worldviews that are driving each side of this conflict and why are they using force - to protect people or to eliminate them? Check out some recent materials that Dr. Jeremiah Johnston helped produce to help us understand this issue: God’s Love for Israel and the Jewish People By Jeremiah J. Johnston, PhD Christianity & Islam: The Key Differences, Prestonwood HomeLife Resource Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guest: State Representative Matt Shaheen, Texas State House District 66 Texas Governor Greg Abbott has called the Texas Legislature back into a special session where they are only allowed to address the issues that the governor has placed on their docket. One of those issues that the legislature has addressed is increasing border security along the Texas/Mexico border. Legislation has been passed making it illegal to enter the US illegally - sounds strange, but it's a very important aspect so that individuals who enter the country illegally can be arrested without having to break another law in the US. Here is one story about this legislation. The governor has also asked the legislature to address parental freedom and financing options for school choice legislation. Here is one article that gives more information about the bill passed by the Texas Senate, which may not be passed by the House. Governor Abbott signed the largest property tax relief bill in Texas history, $18 billion, and you should be getting the good news about property tax reductions soon! Newly elected Speaker of the House Mike Johnson is a devout Christian and has come under attack for his Biblical views and values - read more about the battle for Christians entering into the political arena with views that run counter to our current culture. To learn more about Speaker Johnson's 7 Core Principles of Conservativism, click here. To learn more about the PCA Mock Trial program under the tutelage and leadership of Kim Stidham, click here. Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guests: Matt and Lindsey McGuire and Drew and Carolyn Herndon, PCA North parents Make sure you’re looking for our parent training resources - PCA isn’t just a great place for your students to grow spiritually, it’s an awesome opportunity for the entire family to grow spiritually as well. Parent Perspective Panels - next scheduled events Plano - Friday, November 3rd from 8:30-9:30 am in the Horner North - Thursday, December 7th from 8:30-9:30 am in The Gathering Special speaker for parents - Clint Davis will share important information for parents about navigating technology and social media - he gives valuable information and practical steps to protect and prepare your entire family. Clint will be speaking at the North Campus on Monday, November 13th from 6:30-8:00 pm in The Gathering - invite a friend (you don’t have to be a PCA parent to attend). If you are unable to attend, this information is being recorded and will be released on our YouTube channel shortly. In addition, check out the weekly Panetti Parent Parcel posts each week in the Minute With Mike email. These posts are written from a Biblical perspective and include several outstanding resources that will help you grow in your faith in a particular area of life. PCA is here to equip parents, to lock arms with you on this incredible journey of training up kids to be the godly men and women that God has intended and designed them to be! As Director of Parent Engagement & Ministry, if I can serve you and your family, please reach out to me at [email protected] - it would be an honor to walk alongside you! Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guest: Erin Williams, LPC, PCA Upper School Counselor, Plano campus APA defines anxiety as “an emotion characterized by feelings of tension, worried thoughts, and physical changes”. Exists on a spectrum from everyday “good anxiety” to debilitating clinical anxiety Anxiety that helps you get things done vs. anxiety that keeps you from doing things Anxiety demands 2 things Certainty: “I have to know whatʼs going to happen next…and I want to control it!” Comfort: “I want to feel safe and comfortable…or else I want out! Our bodies, our brains, our emotions weren’t meant to handle all the information all the time A world that feels scary and threatening (it has always been like this but not we have access to see school shootings, wars, violence live on social media) Social media “There’s not a single exception. All screen activities are linked to less happiness, and all non-screen activities are linked to more happiness.” Jean Twenge’s article in the Atlantic Designed to create anxiety, depression, angst, a sense of urgency, wanting to look & feel different, needing something new Teens (and adults) used to exist in small(ish) circles so maybe they were still struggling with comparison to neighbors, peers, teammates, etc. but now they are comparing themselves to EVERYONE, EVERYWHERE … including images, stories, personas that are fake/false/not real. Parenting positives and negatives in handling anxiety… NegativeHigh expectations and pressure to “succeed” Avoidance - worry says to STOP so you have to keep going Not setting limits, boundaries (your job as a parent is to keep your kids safe and healthy -> mind, body & soul) Projecting anxiety onto your childrenAnxiety is a learned behavior This doesn’t mean don’t be anxious but it does mean that as a parent you need to do the work! (generational trauma/sin) PositiveTolerate and normalize discomfort (instead of saving our kids from it) Learn by doing, failing, & succeeding Handle the uncertainty of life -> resiliency Be more flexible -> malleability Problem solve (vs. ruminate) Simplify life Healthy families: time together, positive communication, appreciation & affection Strong biblical foundation & limits on social media Teens being spiritually confused + largely influenced by social media = destructive thinking (Center for Bible Engagement) Books for parents of teens with anxiety Parenting the New Teen in the Age of Anxiety (Dr. John Huffy) Books for parents with anxiety Get Out of Your Head (Jenny Allen) Podcasts Flusterclux with Lynn Lyons (non-Christian, but very practical stories that are helpful, more pointed toward clinical anxiety) 2 Corinthians 10:5 “We capture, like prisoners of war, every thought and insist that it bow in obedience to the Anointed One” (TPT). Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guests: Kristan Williams (MS Principal Plano campus), Jillian Bryant (Assistant Athletic Director Plano campus), and Gabe Boyd (parent North campus) NOTE: Clint Davis will be speaking to parents about all things relating to social media - Tuesday, Oct. 24th at the Plano campus and Monday, Nov. 13th at the North campus, both from 6:30-8:00 pm How do we engage, as Christian parents, with PCA - from athletics to academics and all facets of the school…especially when we feel that there is an issue or concern that we wish to express and address? General Principles for Parents: Train up your children to self-advocate, to speak for themselves where and when appropriate - and to start with expressing their concern directly to their coaches or teachers. If parents need to engage with their students, start the communication process with the coach or teacher directly - and make sure that all communications are presented in a Christ-like manner that honors the position and person you are communicating with. If you feel that an issue remains unresolved, you can work your way up to the next level after addressing it first with the coach or teacher. Parents - in athletics, coaches are not going to talk about playing time or other athletes, but they will help you understand how your athlete can improve on skills or attitude. Parents - ask your students questions about situations, but also learn to listen to other perspectives before you draw conclusions on issues. Parents - what teachers and coaches observe at school might be different than what you observe at home; situations are different, expectations are different. If your student is caught or accused or doing something wrong, it is an opportunity to train your children to respond with humility and develop maturity in the process. Parents - teachers and coaches are not perfect, either. Please extend them the same grace that you expect them to extend to your students. When mistakes are made by anyone, create an atmosphere of cooperation and allow for forgiveness and restoration. Conversations can be conducted without condemnation. When engaging in conversations and meetings, assume positive intent and look for a workable solution. Parents - remember that you are modeling proper behavior and attitude for our children. If a mistake is made, apologize and seek reconciliation. It’s easier to forgive others when you’ve been forgiven much! The Soul of Civility: Timeless Principles to Heal Society and Ourselves by Alexandra Hudson Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guest: Dr. Daphney Harris, PCA North Librarian The Texas Legislature recently passed a law that will hold book vendors accountable for the material that is being distributed in their books - if material is inappropriate for children, these vendors will not be allowed to sell their books to Texas public schools or libraries. This new law called the Removing Explicit and Adult Designated Educational Resources (READER) Act was signed into law by Texas governor Greg Abbott following this most recent legislative session. PCA library on the Plano campus has recently finished an audit of their books to better ensure that all books on the shelves and available for PCA students are aligned with our mission and are age appropriate material and content. If you find material in a book that you find inappropriate, please let your librarian know so they can help best protect and prepare our students. As a parent, how do I develop a love for reading in my children: Find resources/books that our children are interested in Avoid “bad” books that waste time and warp minds Start reading to your younger children As your children get older, engage in meaningful discussions about books that they are currently reading Set goals to help challenge your children to read - the practice of reading is important for the Christian student - God’s Word is written and if we can’t read well, we will be frustrated trying to draw close to God through Scripture Amusing Ourselves to Death: Public Discourse in an Age of Show Business by Neil Postman Parents, what are you reading? You model the importance of reading for your children - lead by example. Parents, do a little research on finding good, clean, and appropriate books for your children - start with reading out to Dr. Books - her email is [email protected] Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guests: Dr. Connor Bales, pastor, Prestonwood Baptist Church, North campus To watch Dr. Bales sermon in its entirety, please visit click here. Psalm 127:3-5 Children are a heritage from the Lord - an inheritance, a gift from God! Our children belong to God, we are to steward them well. Children are not a burden, they are not our self-esteem. Children are like arrows…how are arrows made, what are they designed to do: Arrows have a purpose, so too should our children Arrows get shaped, so too should our children Arrows get aimed, so too should our children Arrows get released, so too should our children Deuteronomy 6 Biblical parenting releases arrows that have a vision for God’s mission Biblical parenting releases arrows that have a devotion to God’s son (Jesus) Biblical parenting releases arrows that have a submission to God’s Word Biblical parenting releases arrows that have an instruction in God’s Word Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guests: Coach Ryan Mitchell, Jaden Livings, Mikala Young, Macaria Spears, and Gillian Pitts Last year the PCA Plano girls volleyball team finished an incredible 40-1 and capped the season off with the 5th TAPPS State Championship for PCA girls volleyball - read more about last season and their amazing run here. There are some amazing young ladies on this team, featured on this podcast are the following: Jaden Livings, senior (committed to USC), pin hitter, outside, right side. Mikala Young, senior (committed to TCU), outsider/right side hitter. Macaria Spears, junior, outside hitter. Gillian Pitts, junior (committed to UHouston), libero. ESPN will be hosting a showcase event on Friday, Oct. 6th in the evening at Prestonwood Christian Academy featuring four of the top girls volleyball teams in the country! If you can make this event, you won’t want to miss it! Also, check out the remainder of their TAPPS schedule for the year and come see them play! Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guests: Dr. William Lane Craig and Lee Strobel PCA’s Biblical Worldview Conference is scheduled for September 24-26 and has some outstanding speakers focused on the conference theme of “I Am” which examines the importance of the personhood and divinity of Jesus to our lives. Here is the schedule for the event held at Prestonwood Baptist Church, 6801 W. Park Blvd, Plano, TX 75093. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 6:00 p.m. – Doors Open 6:30 p.m. – Welcome & Introductions 6:45 p.m. – Panel Discussion (Lee Strobel, Allie Beth Stuckey & Jeremiah Johnston) 8:15 p.m. – Dismissed MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 8:00 a.m. – Doors Open 8:30 a.m. – General Session (Lee Strobel, Tim Barnett) 10:45 a.m. – Breakout Session 1 11:30 a.m. – Lunch 1:00 p.m. – Breakout Session 2 1:50 p.m. – General Session (Mary Jo Sharp) 3:00 p.m. – Dismissed TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 8:00 a.m. – Doors Open 8:30 a.m. – General Session (Justin Brierley, William Lane Craig & Jeremiah Johnston) 11:45 a.m. – Dismissed This episode features interviews with two of the conference speakers - Dr. William Lane Craig and Lee Strobel. Bill Craig has two earned doctorate degrees and his 1994 apologetic book Reasonable Faith serves as the basis of his ministry of the same name, which provides “an intelligent, articulate, and uncompromising yet gracious Christian perspective on the most important issues concerning the truth of the Christian faith today.” Lee Strobel is an atheist-turned Christian and best-selling author of more than 40 books, including The Case for Christ, that have sold 14 million copies and won numerous awards. Lee currently serves as the founding director of the Lee Strobel Center for Evangelism and Applied Apologetics at Colorado Christian University. Lee is also releasing his new book Is God Real: Exploring the Ultimate Question of Life and will be speaking about this issue at the conference. Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guests: Lauren Aulenbach, Director of Annual Funds, Megan Rogers, Director of Development Operations, and Alex Bellamy, Director of Alumni Relations The donations made to PCA during NTGD go to the PCA Fund - and these gifts help PCA maintain that margin of excellence that PCA has secured and maintained for the past 26 years! NTGD is Thursday, September 21st - but you can give NOW - no need to wait until Sept. 21st. The goal this year is to raise $500,000 across the PCA system, $60,000 at the North campus alone! Each campus has grade level challenges based on the greatest percentage of participants! We want everyone to give something, no matter the amount! To make a donation to PCA, visit the North Texas Giving Day website and search for Prestonwood Christian Academy! PCA alumni have the opportunity to support the continued vision and mission of PCA - remember, “Once a lion, always a lion!” PCA loves our alumni and pray that they will continue to appreciate the investment that PCA made in their journey…and look forward to those incredible alumni returning some of that investment back into the PCA community! Thank you to all those who give to support the mission and vision of PCA - you have been blessed to be a blessing - and your generosity is appreciated! Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guests: Dr. Chad Nichols, US Principal, Plano campus and Mr. Greg Wright, US Principal, North campus You can also watch this episode on the PrestonwoodChristian YouTube channel. PCA’s Minimester is an extension of the PCA classroom and enhances the mission of PCA giving students an opportunity to grow in their Biblical worldview by embracing Biblical truth, striving for academic excellence, and modeling Christlike leadership to influence their homes, churches, and communities for Christ! The entire PCA community has been blessed in so many ways over the years because of the experiences that students and faculty have encountered during Minimester and we are thrilled to be able to offer this opportunity again for PCA students both at the North and Plano campuses. Minimester offerings for the North campus Upper School students include the following: Local - Celina and South Dallas Domestic - Kentucky, Colorado Springs, and South Florida International - England Minimester offerings for the Plano campus Upper School students include the following: Local - Local Missions, Parent Led Missions, Parent Led College Visits, Internships Domestic - Puerto Rico, Abilene, Boston, Navajo Reservation in NM, NYC, OKC, Las Vegas, and Denver International - Amazon, Uganda, Costa Rica, France, DR (basketball teams), Germany, Mexico (girls only), Greece, Romania, and Cuba The students and faculty at PCA covet your prayers and support for the Minimester program and opportunities. Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guests: Dr. Jason Snyder, Discipleship Pastor, and Jason Mick, NextGen Minister, Prestonwood Baptist Church To watch this episode, check out the PrestonwoodChristian YouTube channel. Why is going to church essential in the life of a disciple of Christ? The church resources and equips Christ-followers to grow in their personal faith journeys The church gives the opportunity for believers to serve and minister to the needs of the body of Christ - don’t rob someone of the blessing that God has given you! The church gives us the opportunity to model for our children that we value Christ - your kids need to see you as you worship, as you study the Word of God, as you listen to corporate teaching/preaching - James reminds us that faith without works is dead! Men, we need to “model the mission” and lead by example! What is expected of a member? Be in worship - we are instructed to gather together as the body of Christ. Bring your worship with you! Be involved in community - don’t journey in isolation, get plugged in to a LifeGroup Be available to serve the church and the community through the life of the church! Text the word “Serve” to either 74788 for the Plano Campus or 55125 for the North Campus Compare your “screen time” to the time that you spend serving the Lord, ministering to others, investing in your own spiritual growth and maturity! Text the word “Groups” to 74788 (Plano) or 55125 (North) to find out about various LifeGroups that exist for you to connect with! Wednesday evenings are filled with incredible opportunities for discipleship training - Crew, Hype, AWANA (Plano), JHigh Midweek, High School Midweek for students and several different offerings for adults, including several LifeGroups that meet Wednesday evenings. Check out HERE what is being offered for adults at the Plano and North campuses. Women’s Ministry under the leadership of Tasha Calvert is starting a study of Nehemiah this fall on both campuses - click here to find out more. Tasha also leads the women’s ministry’s podcast called Digging In with Tasha Calvert. Bible study is not a class we take, but a rhythm that we keep! Also check out the Friday Morning Men’s Bible study at both the Plano and North campuses. On Sunday mornings, all three campuses - Plano, North, and Espanol - are teaching the Distinctives of a Disciple - the basics of walking out the life of a follower of Jesus! Resources from Prestonwood called HomeLife are available for you as parents as well - check them out! Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guests: Maria Bower, Director of Spiritual Development for PCA Plano and Josiah Isom, Director of Spiritual Development for PCA North The Plano Spiritual Development Team is led by Maria Bower and includes Coach Stephen Bryant and Courtney Caldwell. The North Spiritual Development Team is led by Josiah Isom and Megan Gover was recently added to the team as well. The Spiritual Development teams are responsible for all things related to the spiritual training of PCA students including retreats, chapels, and some upcoming parent panels at both the North and Plano campuses be looking for more information on these parent panels coming soon! Parents, don’t forget to take a minute to provide some helpful feedback about the podcast here. Also, reminder that The Journey podcast is now on the @PrestonwoodChristian YouTube Channel - you can listen AND watch each episode! Parents please encourage your students to take their Bibles to chapel - and be engaged, set their hearts to be receptive to what the Lord is telling them! Final word of encouragement - parents please be praying for Maria Bower and Josiah Isom and their respective teams at both PCA campuses! Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guests: Dr. Shannon Cole and Dr. Clarence Williams Just a quick celebration - this is our 100th episode of The Journey - thanks for listening and for all those who made this podcast possible!!! And, reminder that you can listen, subscribe and rate the podcast! Dr. Cole is an individual who loves the Lord, loves learning…and loves life! While serving as Head of School for the PCA Plano campus, she will continue working with her curriculum team that serves as an umbrella for all learning at both campuses. Dr. Williams is an individual of highest integrity and competency as an educational leader - an “awesome administrator and a man of integrity.” He is also a man of faithful prayer and devotion to the Lord. The Journey PCA Parent Podcast Feedback - if you would like to share your thoughts on past and recommendations for future podcasts, please check out this form - or to leave some parent feedback that administration will consider. Civility Clause - parents, there is a new process being implemented to help further Kingdom-minded communication between parents and PCA faculty and administration. The desire is to make sure that not only are issues and situations aired and addressed, but also that all communications are conducted in a Christ-centered manner, treating others as you desire to be treated, honoring another in brotherly love. MAP - Measure of Academic Progress. PCA utilizes the MAP testing at several times and stages during the year to make adjustments to the material they are teaching to ensure the greatest competency of their students. MAP scores are sent to parents for their evaluation as well. Dr. Cole - PCA last year had 4 National Merit Scholars, which is significantly higher as a percentage of student population as compared to other schools in the area, both private and public. And PCA students scored at least a 3 on AP tests given at a rate of over 90%, which is very high. Dr. Williams - we’re not just preparing students to get into college, we’re preparing students to be successful once they get there. And we have missed the mark at PCA if we’re only preparing students academically; that’s why Bible is a core content and a subject for PCA students. We are preparing students to be successful in life, and you can’t do that outside of a relationship with Jesus Christ and knowing His Word for your life! PCA North is celebrating their 10th year! Starting with 52 students, PCA North now has over 600 students and just had their first graduating class in 2023! Faculty Senate Council and a student-led council to offer feedback are things coming soon! Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guest: Dr. Mike Goddard, Superintendent, Prestonwood System of Schools Be the Light Matthew 5:14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16 Dan’s new role at PCA is now the Director of Parent Engagement & Ministry - we’ll be discovering more about this in upcoming podcasts! Two Things to Consider from This Year’s Theme: God wants us to shine brightly for Him! How are you doing as a reflection of God’s glory to a dark and dying world? Light exposes what is in the darkness - in the world and in my own heart and life! Dr. Goddard - the Word of God is our “lightsaber”! Dr. Goddard - we need more than a “firework” faith that shines brightly…then fades away quickly. We need to develop a sustaining faith that burns brightly by the power of the Holy Spirit! Parents, you need to be plugged into the Word of God with the people of God (church) so that you can grow into the men and women of God! And what you have been given freely (God’s grace), give to others freely! Parents, check out this and future episodes of The Journey on PCA’s YouTube channel as well. Please share this podcast and the YouTube video with your friends - it’s a great marketing tool for PCA and an excellent equipping opportunity from a Biblical worldview for others! Dr. Goddard - prayer life has changed from “Lord let them have a great day” to “Lord, as we face adversity, let us bring glory to you.” Lean into the difficult and not on your own understanding…but in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths (Proverbs 3:5-6). Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guest: Chef Shaun Vaughn, SAGE Dining Learn more about SAGE Dining Services on their website - and make sure you download the Touch of SAGE app. Chef Shaun has been serving the PCA community through SAGE Dining Services for the past 6 years - he and his team provide incredible meals, soups, salads, drinks, and desserts for our students and staff at the Plano campus and hopefully will be providing the same level of service and excellence at the North campus soon! Please encourage your students to TRY the wide variety of incredible offerings - including their awesome fruits and vegetables! Also, please remind your students that we are all stewards of the resources that God has entrusted to us - take what you can eat, be reasonable and fair with what you take (careful with all those desserts!), and make sure you clean up after yourself by throwing away disposable items and placing plates, cups, and silverware in the appropriate locations to be washed. It is an incredible privilege to share a good meal with good friends, a privilege that we need to remind our students about their responsibilities. Parents, just as there are several ways to voice your concerns or desires to SAGE about various menu items, there are also opportunities to bless the SAGE employees for the great work they do day in and day out! Take a moment and write a note to the various SAGE employees, toss in a gift card, stop by and eat with your students and greet the SAGE dining staff in person - remember, you’ve been blessed to be a blessing! Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guests: Katie McDonald, Julie Hildebrand, and Gabe Boyd The book we all read is titled Hold On to Your Kids: Why Parents Need to Matter More than Peers written by Gordon Neufeld, Ph.D., and Gabor Mate, M.D. This is NOT a recommendation of this book, but an in-depth exploration of the concepts of “attachment” parenting that are raised and an exploration of the idea that youth need to be more connected to their parents than to their peers. The “family dinner” is one of the strategies for building a meaningful relationship and connection between parents and children - don’t take this important concept for granted. Bedtime routines can also be tremendously valuable in establishing and maintaining a meaningful connection with your child. “It takes a saint to not be alienated, but with our peer-oriented children, sainthood may be what we are called to. If that seems unnatural, it’s because it is unnatural” (HOTYK). Establishing a meaningful relationship with your kids isn’t just UNnatural, it’s SUPERnatural!!! John 17 parenting - as Jesus prayed and let his disciples hear how he spoke to his Father about them, we need to let our children hear us pray for them, about them, with them…so they can hear what we think about them! Parents, be careful of “sleepovers” with friends - your children can learn a lot of bad things at homes and with “friends” who are not on the same page as you are! Parents, understand the incredible impact that other voices can have on the lives of your children - coaches, teachers, pastors, etc…and if you’re one of those individuals, make sure you take that responsibility seriously to speak life into those around you! Parents, our primary responsibility is to raise our children so that they are connected to and find their identity in Christ! If you’re connected to Christ and His larger story for your life, you’ll want to share that with your kids…and your kids will want to be a part of something bigger than themselves! Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guests: Katie McDonald, Julie Hildebrand, and Gabe Boyd The book we all read is titled Hold On to Your Kids: Why Parents Need to Matter More than Peers written by Gordon Neufeld, Ph.D., and Gabor Mate, M.D. This is NOT a recommendation of this book, but an in-depth exploration of the concepts of “attachment” parenting that are raised and an exploration of the idea that youth need to be more connected to their parents than to their peers. What are the dangers of a child being attached to peers more than to their parents? Whomever a child is most attached to will have the greatest impact on their lives. Peers are not accountable for their impact on your children - you, as parents, are! “When peers replace parents as the dominant attachment figures, they become our child’s models without, of course, assuming any responsibility for the end result” (HOTYK). “Sex becomes an instrument of peer attachment. They are using sex with their peers to try to satisfy their hunger for connection and for affection” (HOTYK). The book is honest about the power of sex to connect two individuals - and the pain that comes with separation when that relationship or activity ends. Bullying wouldn’t be that big of a deal if the child is more concerned with what his father (in our case, our Heavenly Father) thinks of us! When you lose your attachment with your children, they’ll go and attach and listen to someone else. Getting that attachment relationship back with your children will take time and significant effort. As parents, do we “over schedule” our children? Attachment isn’t proximity, it’s intentional investment into the lives of our children. “Children don’t need friends, they need parents, grandparents, adults who will assume the responsibility to hold on to them” (HOTYK). A “friend” is someone who has your best interest in mind - who is willing to speak truth into your life and make whatever sacrifice is necessary to help you be the best version of yourself. Your children need friends like this and so do you! Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guests: Katie McDonald, Julie Hildebrand, and Gabe Boyd The book we all read is titled Hold On to Your Kids: Why Parents Need to Matter More than Peers written by Gordon Neufeld, Ph.D., and Gabor Mate, M.D. This is NOT a recommendation of this book, but an in-depth exploration of the concepts of “attachment” parenting that are raised and an exploration of the idea that youth need to be more connected to their parents than to their peers. “Attachment” parenting addresses the importance of the relationship between parents and their children as well as children and other things, especially the connection of children with their peers. Parents who are looking to foster and encourage peer relationships might need to reconsider the importance of these relationships - the MOST important relationship/connection that your children need to have secure is the relationship with you as their parent! Parents, we should want our children to “attach” to us IF we are attached to Christ - as Paul said, Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1). Josh McDowell, “Rules without relationship leads to rebellion.” When a child is acting unruly, these behavioral issues are really, at their core, relationship issues. Benefit of having your children at PCA is that your child should have multiple attachments of like-minded, Christ-centered people in their lives! The secret of parenting is not what the parent does, but who the parent is, in the life of a child - that’s a very profound point in this book! Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guest: Alycia Wood, apologist with The C.S. Lewis Society The C.S. Lewis Society was organized by Princeton University students in 1975, as a guest-speaker forum for the campus community to hear Christian scholars articulate a biblical perspective on topics of wide public concern. After years of fruitful ministry, the Society was re-launched on the campus of Trinity College of Florida in 1988 as a fellowship of those committed to explaining and defending the Christian faith internationally. Our outreach has focused especially on university campuses and nations that are dominated by skeptical attitudes toward the core truths of Christianity. What is a Woman? documentary by Matt Walsh - so many people ask Matt, “Why do you even care?” Alycia replies: We should, as Christians, grieve with those who grieve, care about those who are hurting and need help. The Western mindset is very individualistic…but the Eastern mindset includes the sense that what you do affects your family and the entire community! When others struggle with gender dysphoria and make decisions to transition, their decision does affect others - including you and me! God has designed us for community and we each have a responsibility to help others to the best of our ability - to speak truth in love is an important part of that responsibility. Parents, consider these things if your son or daughter is talking about gender dysphoria: You are the parent, don’t just let their “feelings” override the facts about their God-designed sexuality - dig into the issues they are facing, ask questions. Social media can be filled with destructive voices that fill the minds of young people with lies and deception - help your children learn to tune out false narratives and discern truth from fiction. Build your “support” group of like-minded, Christ-centered folks to do life with. For parents whose children are dealing with transgender ideology, Alycia recommends a group called 4thWaveNow (a community of people who question the medicalization of gender-atypical youth) for a challenging perspective. Get professional help for your child - someone who is actually going to deal with the mental health aspects, not just transition your children from their current gender to another! Alycia recommends that you watch this powerful and very disturbing video from destransitioner Chloe Cole on the devastating effects of transgender surgery. Alycia also recommends that you watch this video of Jordan Peterson speaking with detransitioner Chloe Cole about the harmful effects of transgender ideology. You may have to switch schools (if you’re not at PCA) or friend groups, etc. The “social contagion” aspect of this is real - change the environment and the narrative in which your child is swimming. Why I no longer use transgender pronouns - and why you shouldn’t either - by Rosaria Butterfield - Article and Video Alycia recommends Jordan Peterson’s video interview of Miriam Grossman, M.D. called Parental Trauma in a World of Gender Insanity. The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self: Cultural Amnesia, Expressive Individualism, and the Road to Sexual Revolution by Dr. Carl Trueman (or the shorter version of the same material: Strange New World). Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guest: Alycia Wood, apologist with The C.S. Lewis Society The C.S. Lewis Society was organized by Princeton University students in 1975, as a guest-speaker forum for the campus community to hear Christian scholars articulate a biblical perspective on topics of wide public concern. After years of fruitful ministry, the Society was re-launched on the campus of Trinity College of Florida in 1988 as a fellowship of those committed to explaining and defending the Christian faith internationally. Our outreach has focused especially on university campuses and nations that are dominated by skeptical attitudes toward the core truths of Christianity. Today, in some countries, misgendering a person (using a pronoun that is different than what another person prefers) can actually result in criminal penalties! You need to understand how the world is using words - “sex” is limited to your biology, “gender” is how you feel about things or how you identify. Excellent Resources: Irreversible Damage: The Transgender Craze Seducing Our Daughters by Abigail Shrier The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self: Cultural Amnesia, Excessive Individualism, and the Road to Sexual Revolution by Dr. Carl Trueman What is a Woman? documentary by Matt Walsh As of 2021, 1.8% of people under 18 years of age identified as transgender. Over 80% of these individuals were born female, lived with their parents, and had zero history of gender dysphoria as children. The majority of the girls that are transitioning have one or more of the following characteristics: depression, anxiety, ADHD, and autism - and about half of these girls were engaged in self harm before any type of gender dysphoria. This is a mental health issue that is not being treated properly. Also, about 65% of these individuals greatly increased their social media usage just before coming out as transgender. Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria - “all of a sudden” groups of young people are feeling that their gender does not match their assigned sex… Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guest: Dr. Connor Bales, Pastor, Prestonwood North Campus How can a young man keep his way pure (how to be a godly success)? Listen and learn as Dr. Bales shares some “gold nuggets” of wisdom from Psalm 119:9-16: By guarding it according to your word. Filter everything through the lens of Scripture - relationships, college, social media, church…let God’s Word inform you on literally everything! Which means…that you need to know, read, and study your Bible! Go ALL IN…“with my whole heart I seek you.” When you live your life with Christ at the center, that’s your “best hand!” Study and learn God’s word - “I have stored up your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” The Word of God is both a window through which to see the world…and a mirror by which to see yourself! Stay teachable (coachable). “Blessed are you, O Lord; teach me your statutes.” The more teachable we are, the more God can teach us! Humility is essential for the Christian journey! Speak God’s truth. “With my lips I declare all the rules of your mouth.” Big difference between “I think that…” and “God’s Word says…” Find your greatest joy in Jesus! “In the way of your testimonies I delight as much as in all riches.” Know the transcendent joy that comes from connection with God through Christ…which is far greater than temporary circumstantial happiness. Give your thought life to God. “I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways.” Consider the spiritual disciplines…and practice them, they are there to draw you closer to God! Define genuine joy, seek after it, don’t forget it when you arrive! “I will delight in your statutes; I will not forget your word.” Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guest: Matt Shaheen, Texas State Representative, District 66 Find out who represents YOU in Congress and the Texas Legislature HERE. Important legislative initiatives that were addressed during the 88th Legislative Session: Ended government-mandated COVID restrictions Funded border security Removed porn from public schools - check out HB 900. Banned DEI in higher education - to find out more about the Diversity, Opportunity, and Inclusion efforts in the State of Virginia, read this. Returned election law violations to a felony Holding facilities accountable if they host a “drag show” for minors Ended gender modification on minors Governor Abbott is looking to call at least two “Special Sessions” on the following issues: Tax relief for Texas citizens - lowering the tax rate for your property tax rate and/or adding a larger homestead exemption. Parental rights in education (otherwise known as “school choice”) The Texas State House of Representatives also heard evidence on the impeachment of Attorney General Ken Paxton and voted 121-23 to impeach him. His case will be taken to the Senate for a trial next where the rules require a ⅔ vote to convict. Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guest: Michael Craven, Vice President for Equipping and Mobilization at The Colson Center for Christian Worldview Colson Fellows: Gain Wisdom, Live Faithfully, Act Courageously. What problem does the Colson Center remedy - the privatization of the Christian faith! Dominion: How the Christian Revolution Remade the World by Tom Holland 4 Questions You Should Be Asking: What is good that I can preserve, protect, and promote? What is missing that I can provide? What is evil that I must stand against? What is broken that I can repair and restore? 3 Institutions Critical to the Future: The family K-12 Christian education The church Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guest: Katie McDonald, PCA’s Senior Director of Marketing and Communications Parents, thank you for listening to The Journey, PCA’s parent podcast - we just went over 10,000 downloads for the podcast, which is awesome! Parents, YOU are our best means of communicating all that is happening here at PCA - and we want to hear from you - we would love for you to take our PCA Podcast Parent Survey and share about how and when you listen as well as ideas for future episodes that you’d like to hear. And, we want to encourage you to share these podcasts with your friends, family, coworkers, etc… Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

PCA Alumni: Sabeen Toranian (‘19), Colson Burchard (‘20), and Sophie Panetti (‘22) Sabeen recently graduated from The University of Texas at Austin and will be heading to medical school in the fall. Colson will be a senior at Texas A&M University and is studying supply chain management. Sophie just finished her freshman year at The University of Arkansas and is studying apparel merchandising. Preparing students for college includes far more than just equipping them to be ready and successful academically - which PCA does very well - but also includes preparing students for the college culture from a spiritual perspective as well. Parents, make sure you get your students plugged into a good Christian ministry and church as soon as possible. Many universities have opportunities for Christian students to meet and connect the summer before their freshman year - the Prestonwood Student Ministry has a great list of outstanding churches and ministries on the campuses of several of the colleges that PCA graduates attend. Great take-aways: Determine who you want to be before heading off to college - or you will be “tossed to and fro” (Eph. 4:14) by the waves of culture and the winds of change. As a Christian, you can navigate the fraternity/sorority world with integrity of character in your Christian walk. Look for good Christian community - it might be in Greek life, or in a Christian-based community group, or in a church - but you need a solid community to stand boldly for Christ in a hostile environment. While in college, being a camp counselor for a wonderful Christian camp is an amazing experience and can really help a young person grow in their faith as they lead others! Other than the normal Christian camps, there are great Christian organizations that are specifically on college campuses like Student Mobilization. The greatest weapon and opportunity you have as parents to equip, prepare, and fight for your children - in college and beyond - is with prayer! PCA joins you in praying for your students here and as they launch out into the world! Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guest: Hillary Morgan Ferrer Mama Bear Apologetics: Empowering Your Kids to Challenge Cultural Lies Mama Bear Apologetics Guide to Sexuality: Empowering Your Kids to Understand and Live Out God’s Design A “Mama Bear” will do things for her children that she wouldn’t even do for herself. Moms are on the front lines for spiritual warfare - the primary person that children ask questions of - moms, you need to be equipped and prepared! If the enemy can’t attack God directly, he’ll attack His image-bearers - that’s us! How do we talk to our kids about sex…how about defining sex in the category of “things that need to be guarded” or “things that are valuable.” Parents, questions are coming…if your children are not asking you their questions, they’re asking someone…the conversations around the dinner table or while driving in the car - those are the most powerful times to engage and equip your children! R.O.A.R. Technique: Recognize the message Offer objective discernment Argue for a healthy approach Reinforce through discussion, discipleship, and prayer Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guest: Monek’ Smith, wife and mother of two PCA students, founder of MS. Cookie Co. PCA mom Monek’ Smith has an interesting side hustle - she makes cookies, but that’s sort of an undersell - if we were completely honest, she crafts tiny masterpieces of culinary confections - seriously insane cookies and not only look amazing, but taste great, too! Listen as Monek’ shares her journey from Texas A&M grad to cookie queen - then check out the gallery on her website of some of her incredible creations! Monek’ loves PCA and loves making cookies - but remember this is a side hustle, so if you reach out and she says no, don’t take it personally - she said no to me as well - her family comes first! [email protected] MS Cookie Co Facebook page @mscookieco.tx Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guests: Brittnye Schroeder and Trisha Ruzynski PCA Prays is a parent-led organization that covers PCA students, faculty and families in prayer. Each grade level has a prayer coordinator and has monthly meetings where parents can gather together and pray for their students by name. You can also find out information on MyPCA on the PCA Spiritual Life button or on the parent-led Facebook page for each grade level. Finally, look for your weekly email from PCA Prays asking for prayer requests that can be shared and prayed for either by the leadership team, the entire grade, or all of the PCA Prays community. E.M. Bounds on Prayer Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guest: Mark Oestreicher MarkO is a partner in The Youth Cartel, providing services and resources for individual youth workers and organizations. He has been married to Jeannie for 30 years, and has two great kids: Riley (22) and Max (18). Here's The Youth Cartel's website. twitter: @markosbeard instagram: @whyismarko You can listen to MarkO on Five Minutes with Marko on YouTube. MarkO - the four years following puberty is the most important developmental period in the life of a person - the most significant changes (that a person is aware of) - and changes in several different aspects of their life - physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. Educational theory - stuff you don’t talk about is called your “null curriculum” - and what you don’t talk about ends up teaching your children as much as what you do!!! Five areas of significant change in the life of a pre-teen: Physical - obvious, and most teens hate this developmental process. Parents, you need to have a ministry of normalizing this experience. Cognitive - we move from being limited as pre-teens to having the ability to think in the abstract, gives the opportunity to speculate, the “what if” and “why” questions and adding a “third person perspective” Emotional Relational Spiritual The dominant perspective of young people is that they are broken or incapable - which is why adolescence has been extended to almost 20 years long! Instead of expecting young people to mature, we make their journey easier and expect less and less of them. MarkO - do you see teenagers as a problem to be solved or a wonder to behold?! Birth-4 are years of discovery Ages 5-7 are years of testing Ages 8-11 are years of concluding (they have everything figured out!) Ages 11-14 are years of discovery (again!) Ages 15-20 are years are testing Ages 20-30 are years of concluding (again) When your child expresses a doubt, we can see that shifting in their brain, testing out new concepts and ideas, moving from literal thinking to abstract considerations. Doubt is not the enemy, but unexamined doubt can be dangerous. Parents, lean into those doubts and help your children wrestle with their doubts. Understanding Your Young Teen: Practical Wisdom for Parents by Mark Oestreicher A Parent’s Guide to Understanding Teenage Brains: Why They Act the Way They Do by Mark Oestreicher Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guest: Jamie Cantrell How do we train our children to have a healthy lifestyle of good, nutritious food and an active lifestyle? First, assess what you are currently doing in terms of food decisions - look for simple “wins” and adjustments you can make. Second, audit your own eating and exercise habits. What do you currently have in your pantry and refrigerator? What is one thing you can begin to replace with a better option? Pay attention to the 4 Ps: Packaged Preserved Processed Prepared Lack of preparation will end up costing you more - eating out is expensive! Check your SUGAR intake - you want to pay attention to “added grams of sugar” - aim to stay 25 grams of added sugar per day or below SAGE dining provides delicious varieties for students that are healthy and nutritious - don’t let your students tell you they “don’t like SAGE” if they aren’t willing to try the food! Parents - why are we so willing to go the extra mile to help our students in so many different areas, but unwilling to address their nutritional needs? Parents - don’t just “take away” things your kids like, add in good, healthy alternatives and begin to train their taste buds for something other than sugary snacks Jamie - “if it’s made from a plant, eat it; if it’s developed from a plant, don’t” Recommended recipe resources: @fedandfit @thedefineddish @halfbakedharvest @healthygirlkitchen Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

Guest: Dr. Pam Merryman, PCA US English teacher Pam and her sister were the first two students enrolled in First Baptist Academy in Dallas, TX. She not only graduated from First Academy, she became the first alumni to return and teach there as well. “I never demand any more of my students than I’m willing to give myself.” Dr. Merryman Dr. Merryman was the force behind bringing Capstone to PCA. Capstone is a senior project of three different papers around one particular literary piece. Seniors write a philosophical paper, an historical paper, and a literary analysis of a book that they choose. Then, the final piece, is looking at the book through a Biblical worldview, the lens of God’s Word, and in light of the five pillars of the Portrait of a PCA Graduate and what they’ve learned in their time at PCA. Portrait of a PCA Graduate: Reverence For God An Eternal Perspective Christ-like Humility Scholastic Excellence Critical Thinking Remember my affliction and my wanderings, the wormwood and the gall! My soul continually remembers it and is bowed down within me. But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:19-23 Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!