Best Gentle And Responsive Parenting Podcasts (2025)

1
Ethics in a Culture of Confusion || 8/2/25 || #214 1:16:56

4d ago1:16:56

1:16:56

The word ethics is an academic word, but we want to go beyond textbooks and ivory towers and give you a practical guide to understanding what ethics really means. Krista talked to our friend, Dr. Joe Miller and got his help to unpack big questions like what makes something right or wrong and how our everyday choices shape a more ethical society. Fr…

1
Ethics in a Culture of Confusion || 8/2/25 || #214 1:16:56

4d ago1:16:56

1:16:56

The word ethics is an academic word, but we want to go beyond textbooks and ivory towers and give you a practical guide to understanding what ethics really means. Krista talked to our friend, Dr. Joe Miller and got his help to unpack big questions like what makes something right or wrong and how our everyday choices shape a more ethical society. Fr…

1
From the archives: When will my baby (or toddler) sleep through the night? 13:00

6d ago13:00

13:00

Welcome to the summer from the archives series! We’re revisiting some much loved podcast episodes from the early months of the podcast. These are episode that are great to revisit at different points in your parenting journey. When will my baby sleep through the night is one of the most common questions I get in casual conversation with parents. Th…

1
From the archives: Sleep and regulation with Lyndsey Hookway 35:50

13d ago35:50

35:50

Welcome to the summer from the archives series! We’re revisiting some much loved podcast episodes from the early months of the podcast. These are episode that are great to revisit at different points in your parenting journey. This is one of my top episodes for good reason. Sleep is all about regulation, and we can’t talk about improving sleep with…

1
Are Doubts Destroying Your Belief in God? Here is what to do. || 7/19/25 || #213 1:03:54

18d ago1:03:54

1:03:54

We sit down with Hillary Ferrer (founder, Mama Bear Apologetics) to explore how honest questions can strengthen, rather than destroy, our faith. In this episode, we unpack the difference between doubt and deconstruction and why definitions matter for a healthy spiritual life. Monique and Hillary look at biblical examples of faithful doubters and le…

1
Are Doubts Destroying Your Belief in God? Here is what to do. || 7/19/25 || #213 1:03:54

18d ago1:03:54

1:03:54

We sit down with Hillary Ferrer (founder, Mama Bear Apologetics) to explore how honest questions can strengthen, rather than destroy, our faith. In this episode, we unpack the difference between doubt and deconstruction and why definitions matter for a healthy spiritual life. Monique and Hillary look at biblical examples of faithful doubters and le…

1
Why Is My Toddler Getting the Zoomies Right at Bedtime 20:03

20d ago20:03

20:03

You know they are tired, and suddenly they just start zooming around the house! Toddlers can be notorious for getting wild right when you want to calm them down for sleep. In this episode, I’m sharing some of the reasons why your toddler might get the sillies right at bedtime. To know where to troubleshoot, you need to know why they are acting the …

1
How Feminist Standpoint Theory is Changing the Way We Read the Bible 1:18:13

23d ago1:18:13

1:18:13

Many of you have so kindly prayed for me during my dissertation journey. Now that I have officially graduated, I wanted to share with you more details about my research and why I think feminist standpoint theory is reshaping biblical interpretation. Monique interviewed me about my unique research journey on socially located biblical interpretation …

1
Life With a Low Sleep Needs Baby or Toddler 13:29

27d ago13:29

13:29

There’s lots of talk about how much babies should sleep, but much of that conversation centers around averages, often the higher end of those averages. So what happens if your baby never seems to sleep as much as they are supposed to? You may have a low sleep needs baby. IN this episode I’m talking about life with a low sleep needs baby or child. I…

1
Talking to Your Kids About God's Design || 7/5/2025 || #212 1:31:57

1M ago1:31:57

1:31:57

In a culture that’s increasingly vocal (and confusing) about identity, gender, and sexuality, how can Christian parents, grandparents, ministry leaders, and those in close proximity to children guide them with biblical clarity and confidence? In this episode, we’re joined by Elizabeth Urbanowicz, educator, author, and founder of Foundation Worldvie…

1
Talking to Your Kids About God's Design || 7/5/2025 || #212 1:31:57

1M ago1:31:57

1:31:57

In a culture that’s increasingly vocal (and confusing) about identity, gender, and sexuality, how can Christian parents, grandparents, ministry leaders, and those in close proximity to children guide them with biblical clarity and confidence? In this episode, we’re joined by Elizabeth Urbanowicz, educator, author, and founder of Foundation Worldvie…

1
Why Is My Baby or Toddler Waking So Early in the Morning? 12:22

1M ago12:22

12:22

Early morning waking is such a frustrating and tricky sleep challenge. IN this episode I talk through some of the causes of early waking. I share some realistic expectations around what is early waking, some seasonal patterns, and talk through some of the contributing factors. Sleep timing, physical needs/discomforts, and environmental factors can …

1
Orange Curriculum Update: Can New Owners Fix Its Theological Flaws? 58:27

1M ago58:27

58:27

I share the latest developments at the Orange Sunday school curriculum in this in-depth update. Explore the recent leadership transitions, including the resignation of co-founder Reggie Joiner and CEO Kristen Ivy, and the acquisition by the Amazing Life Foundation. This video critically examines Orange’s nine theological insights, highlighting conc…

1
Is "Gender Affirming Care" Doing Harm or Saving Lives? || 6/28/2025 || #211 1:16:56

1M ago1:16:56

1:16:56

Join Monique as she dives into a thought-provoking discussion with Dr. Chris Cirucci, a board-certified OBGYN, on gender-affirming care, transgenderism, and biblical truth. They explore critical topics like gender dysphoria, rapid onset gender dysphoria, puberty blockers, and detransitioning, backed by science and faith. Learn why definitions matte…

1
Is "Gender Affirming Care" Doing Harm or Saving Lives? || 6/28/2025 || #211 1:16:56

1M ago1:16:56

1:16:56

Join Monique as she dives into a thought-provoking discussion with Dr. Chris Cirucci, a board-certified OBGYN, on gender-affirming care, transgenderism, and biblical truth. They explore critical topics like gender dysphoria, rapid onset gender dysphoria, puberty blockers, and detransitioning, backed by science and faith. Learn why definitions matte…

1
Supporting Exhaustion and Overstimulation With Sara Sandland 40:39

1M ago40:39

40:39

So many new parents (moms especially) experience exhaustion and overstimulation in early parenting. Some struggle more in the baby year with the higher level of touch and sleep disruption. Some struggle more in the toddler years with the increased chaos that often comes with toddlerhood. While these are common experiences, it doesn’t mean we have t…

1
Gentle Parenting: Biblical Wisdom or Cultural Trap? || 6/21/2025 || #210 1:43:39

2M ago1:43:39

1:43:39

Join Monique for an in-depth and thought-provoking interview with Erin Kunkle from MAVEN to explore a Christian perspective on gentle parenting. In this long-form conversation, they dive into the popular yet controversial parenting philosophy, examining its core pillars—empathy, respect, understanding, and boundaries—and how they align (or don’t) w…

1
Gentle Parenting: Biblical Wisdom or Cultural Trap? || 6/21/2025 || #210 1:43:39

2M ago1:43:39

1:43:39

Join Monique for an in-depth and thought-provoking interview with Erin Kunkle from MAVEN to explore a Christian perspective on gentle parenting. In this long-form conversation, they dive into the popular yet controversial parenting philosophy, examining its core pillars—empathy, respect, understanding, and boundaries—and how they align (or don’t) w…

1
Separation Anxiety or Normal Maternal Biology? 21:33

2M ago21:33

21:33

When is it parental separation anxiety and when is it simply normal biology? In a culture that values separation and independence, where is the line between a parent’s instinct that they and their baby aren’t ready to be separated around nighttime sleep verses anxiety around separation. In this episode I’m unpacking this complicated topic. I discus…

1
A Biblical Response to Pornography in the Church || 6/14/2025 || #209 1:22:47

2M ago1:22:47

1:22:47

Join Monique for a candid conversation with Joe Dallas, a pastoral counselor and author, as they tackle the sensitive issue of pornography from a biblical perspective. Explore why pornography thrives in culture and the church, its impact on men, women, teens, and marriages, and how believers can find hope and healing. Learn practical, gospel-center…

1
A Biblical Response to Pornography in the Church || 6/14/2025 || #209 1:22:47

2M ago1:22:47

1:22:47

Join Monique for a candid conversation with Joe Dallas, a pastoral counselor and author, as they tackle the sensitive issue of pornography from a biblical perspective. Explore why pornography thrives in culture and the church, its impact on men, women, teens, and marriages, and how believers can find hope and healing. Learn practical, gospel-center…

1
How Mom Guilt Can Be a Notification With Alysia Lyons 49:05

2M ago49:05

49:05

Mom guilt is such a huge challenge for so many new moms. In this episode, I’m joined by Alysia Lyons, mom, author, and coach, to talk about mom guilt. We talk about how mom guilt is a notification that your actions are out of alignment with your values, and how self-compassion is essential when looking back at past actions. We then unpack how that …

1
Tips for Supporting Sleep Through Summer Travel 16:25

2M ago16:25

16:25

It’s summer travel season! So many parents worry about the impact of travel on sleep. In this episode I’m talking about some tips for common travel concerns. I talk about some mindset tips around how well your baby or toddler travels and ways to think about being both flexible and still provide some consistency. I share some things to think about f…

1
Does Introducing Solids Improve Baby Sleep? 9:34

2M ago9:34

9:34

Anyone with a baby somewhere around 4-6 months has probably heard the advice to start solids to help improve sleep. And yet, the reality of the impact of solid food on baby sleep doesn’t back up this common advice. In this episode I’m talking about the popular sleep advice to start solids to improve nighttime sleep. I discuss the reality of solids …

1
Church History Smashes Cultural Lies and Fortifies Your Faith | 5/24/25 | #208 1:19:58

2M ago1:19:58

1:19:58

Uncover how church history obliterates today’s woke lies in this powerful interview with church historian, Dr. John Wilsey. We explore why Christians must care about church history to strengthen their biblical worldview and spot deception. From the Nicene Creed to ancient councils, learn how historical truths expose modern heresies masquerading as …

1
Church History Smashes Cultural Lies and Fortifies Your Faith | 5/24/25 | #208 1:19:58

2M ago1:19:58

1:19:58

Uncover how church history obliterates today’s woke lies in this powerful interview with church historian, Dr. John Wilsey. We explore why Christians must care about church history to strengthen their biblical worldview and spot deception. From the Nicene Creed to ancient councils, learn how historical truths expose modern heresies masquerading as …

1
What to Do When Your Baby Won’t Transfer to the Crib 13:28

3M ago13:28

13:28

Transfers are hard! And yet the thought of putting your baby in the crib awake and them peacefully drifting off to sleep is laughably unrealistic. In this episode, I’m sharing my best transfer troubleshooting tips. I also share a few thoughts on when to work on transfers to start building some positive momentum. Some babies just struggle with trans…

1
Perfectionism in Early Parenting With Jillian Scott 43:55

3M ago43:55

43:55

Do you struggle with being a perfectionist in your parenting or life in general? If you answer yes, then you are definitely not alone. I support so many parents who struggle with perfectionism and perfectionism doesn’t blend well with the messiness that is sleep and development. In this episode I’m joined by Jillian Scott, a trauma informed health …

1
Tending God's Garden || 5/10/2025 || #207 1:33:51

3M ago1:33:51

1:33:51

Join Monique for a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Cal Beisner, founder of the Cornwall Alliance, as they tackle climate change, biblical stewardship, and environmental justice from a Christian worldview. Discover why Dr. Beisner is skeptical of mainstream environmentalism, debunking myths like Amazon deforestation, acid rain, and the catas…

1
Tending God's Garden || 5/10/2025 || #207 1:33:51

3M ago1:33:51

1:33:51

Join Monique for a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Cal Beisner, founder of the Cornwall Alliance, as they tackle climate change, biblical stewardship, and environmental justice from a Christian worldview. Discover why Dr. Beisner is skeptical of mainstream environmentalism, debunking myths like Amazon deforestation, acid rain, and the catas…

1
How Do You Define Success With Responsive Sleep Support? 11:05

3M ago11:05

11:05

In a developmental and attachment based approach to sleep, success is as much about the process as where the process gets us. Outcomes matter, but they have to be understood within the context of your individual baby or toddler’s unique needs and capabilities. I share some of my key success points with the families I work with – that sleep is easie…

1
New Thought in the Church || 5/3/2025 || #206 1:43:07

3M ago1:43:07

1:43:07

New Thought is a very influential idea that shapes the way a lot of people see the world. Even if you've never heard the term "New Thought" you may have heard of Oprah Winfrey, who is one of its biggest advocates. But what you may not know, is how the vocabulary and ideas behind New Thought have penetrated many sectors of the church. We are going t…

1
New Thought in the Church || 5/3/2025 || #206 1:43:07

3M ago1:43:07

1:43:07

New Thought is a very influential idea that shapes the way a lot of people see the world. Even if you've never heard the term "New Thought" you may have heard of Oprah Winfrey, who is one of its biggest advocates. But what you may not know, is how the vocabulary and ideas behind New Thought have penetrated many sectors of the church. We are going t…

1
Simplifying Parenting With Jenna Michael 36:26

3M ago36:26

36:26

So many parents I support (and let’s be real, my family as well) struggle with too much stuff, too many commitments, too much busyness. Simplifying parenting and life seems like an amazing dream, but one that can feel so hard to achieve. And yet my guest for this episode breaks down small and actionable ways to simplify family life. In this episode…

1
Signs of a Civilization in Decline || 4/26/2025 || #205 1:11:31

3M ago1:11:31

1:11:31

We are so excited to introduce you to our brother and historian, Dr. Glenn Sunshine. You don't want to miss this AMAZING conversation about civilization, our nation, its future, and the biblical blueprint for cultural renewal.Dr. Sunshine outlined 5 distinct features of a civilization in decline: 1. Loose sexual mores and loosening restrictions aro…

1
Signs of a Civilization in Decline || 4/26/2025 || #205 1:11:31

3M ago1:11:31

1:11:31

We are so excited to introduce you to our brother and historian, Dr. Glenn Sunshine. You don't want to miss this AMAZING conversation about civilization, our nation, its future, and the biblical blueprint for cultural renewal.Dr. Sunshine outlined 5 distinct features of a civilization in decline: 1. Loose sexual mores and loosening restrictions aro…

1
Is Bedsharing A Bad Habit? 18:35

3M ago18:35

18:35

Our culture is so anti bedsharing that we tend to only hear (or interpret) bedsharing stories as scary, bad, worse case scenario situations. In this episode, I’m unpacking the idea that bedsharing is a bad habit or a tool parents are scared of using. So many parents feel like if they bedshare they’ll get stuck bedsharing for forever and look at oth…

1
Were the Gospels Written by Eyewitnesses? || 4/19/2025 || #204 1:03:40

4M ago1:03:40

1:03:40

**EASTER EPISODE!** Former cold case detective, Jim Wallace walks us through the evidence for the New Testament being written by eyewitnesses and how to think about apparent contradictions. (Programming note: This is a rebroadcast from 2020.)By Monique Duson & Krista Bontrager

1
Were the Gospels Written by Eyewitnesses? || 4/19/2025 || #204 1:03:40

4M ago1:03:40

1:03:40

**EASTER EPISODE!** Former cold case detective, Jim Wallace walks us through the evidence for the New Testament being written by eyewitnesses and how to think about apparent contradictions. (Programming note: This is a rebroadcast from 2020.)By Krista Bontrager

1
How To Know If It's Time To Drop A Nap? 12:12

4M ago12:12

12:12

Nap struggles are frustrating, but they don’t always mean it’s time to drop a nap. In this episode I’m talking about nap transitions. I share common times for nap transitions as well as the fact that transitions are often messy times with sleep. I give some context for when fighting naps and skipping naps mean it’s time to drop a nap and when it me…

1
Forgive Your Child's Murderer? || 4/12/2025 || #203 1:23:54

4M ago1:23:54

1:23:54

Monique is joined by Kevin Briggins to discuss the recent stabbing at a high school track meet in Texas. Is this the next George Floyd situation where a black kid is getting railroaded because he stabbed a white guy? What does biblical justice have to say about this very tragic situation? Let's talk about it.…

1
Forgive Your Child's Murderer? || 4/12/2025 || #203 1:23:54

4M ago1:23:54

1:23:54

Monique is joined by Kevin Briggins to discuss the recent stabbing at a high school track meet in Texas. Is this the next George Floyd situation where a black kid is getting railroaded because he stabbed a white guy? What does biblical justice have to say about this very tragic situation? Let's talk about it.…

1
How To Know Your Postpartum Doula Is Lactation And Normal Sleep Supportive With Alex King 42:38

4M ago42:38

42:38

Throughout human history new parents had support with their newborns around the clock from their friends and family. Now, most parents don’t have friends and family who are able to help overnight, and postpartum doulas are an option for nighttime support to help you get more rest. However, if you are a parent looking for someone who is knowledgeabl…

1
Simple Steps To Nurture Your Sleep 15:22

4M ago15:22

15:22

Modern life is not sleep friendly for any of us. While there are many ways to better support and optimize baby and toddler sleep, let’s not forget that there are often simple things that adults can do to support your own sleep (no matter how your child is sleeping). As the days get longer (and warmer), it’s a good time to check in with yourself and…

1
Avoiding The Comparison Trap 11:34

4M ago11:34

11:34

Your baby is an individual and comparing them to other babies can create a whole lot of unnecessary stress and struggle. In this episode I’m talking about how comparisons make your life harder as a parent, especially if you have a baby or toddler who is more….more sensitive, intense, persistent, active, perceptive….essentially who needs more suppor…

1
Becoming a Lifelong Learner | Interview w/ Ken Samples 59:13

5M ago59:13

59:13

I'm having my friend and mentor, Kenneth Samples, back on the show to talk about how to develop a robust life of the mind for the glory of God. We also discuss reading tips on how to work through your pile of books.Watch our previous discussion about Ken's unique career in Christian apologetics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OAmFAzvy3y4Ken's book…

1
2 Presidents, 2 Approaches to Border & Immigration || 3/22/25 || #202 1:22:04

5M ago1:22:04

1:22:04

We have been getting a number of questions into the ministry asking us to have some discussions related to what's been happening at the border and all of the recent changes. It has taken us a while to find the right dialogue partner on this issue, someone who can bring first-hand experience, but also a Christian worldview. We are excited to have wa…

1
2 Presidents, 2 Approaches to Border & Immigration || 3/22/25 || #202 1:22:04

5M ago1:22:04

1:22:04

We have received a number of questions into the ministry asking us to have some discussions related to what's been happening at the border and all of the recent changes. It has taken us a while to find the right dialogue partner on this issue, someone who can bring first-hand experience, but also a Christian worldview. We are excited to have war co…

1
How To Make Bedtimes Easier: Your Parenting Superpower 11:13

5M ago11:13

11:13

Sleep is separation, and connection is our best tool to support through a separation challenge. And in fact, connection is almost always part of the answer to most parenting challenges. In this episode, I’m talking about the role of connection in the evening to set you up for better sleep - Connection through the bedtime routine, but also in the ho…

1
What Does the Term Judeo-Christian Mean? 1:03:28

5M ago1:03:28

1:03:28

I'm wrapping up my recent teaching series on anti-semitism. I address two issues that I'm seeing on social media: • What does the term Judeo-Christian mean? And, should Christians use it?• Did nefarious Zionists fund the Scofield Bible?Additional resources:• Entire playlist of related teachings: "Judaism, Israel, Islam & Middle East Conflict": http…

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