Swim Upstream: Parenting in a Crazy World with Josh Poteet

The Black Sheep Christian

So, today we're diving into some real talk about parenting with Josh Poteet, the lead pastor of 180 Life Church and author of "Parenting Against the Current." Let’s be real—parenting is a wild ride, and Josh highlights that if we just float along, we’re gonna get swept away in the chaos of modern life. He argues that we need to be intentional in how we shepherd our kids, creating that all-important "village" we often hear about but forget to build. We share some laughs, some awkward stories, and a few hard truths about the struggles of being a parent. So buckle up, because if you thought you had it all figured out, spoiler alert: you probably don’t, and that’s totally okay!

Josh Poteet, the lead pastor of 180 Life Church and author of 'Parenting Against the Current', takes us on a wild ride through the unfiltered chaos of modern parenting. No sugar-coating here, folks! He dives into the challenges of raising kids in a world that's constantly changing, where the parenting playbook seems to be rewritten daily. He shares his personal anecdotes, reflecting on his own childhood and the stark differences in how parenting happens in today’s society versus his upbringing. The podcast reveals how crucial it is to build a supportive community—a ‘village’ if you will—to help shepherd our kids' hearts. The convo gets real as Josh talks about the absurdity of trying to navigate this parenting jungle alone, all while maintaining a sense of humor about the inevitable meltdowns, tantrums, and the ultimate test of patience that kids can dish out. Spoiler alert: It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being present and intentional, even when you feel like you're drowning in the chaos.

As the discussion unfolds, Josh and Ashley tackle the idea of being intentional in parenting, stressing the importance of having a clear destination in mind. They humorously lament the modern-day mantra of “don’t tell me how to parent” and how it can backfire. Instead, they advocate for an open-minded approach where parents lean on each other for support and guidance. The episode emphasizes that parenting isn’t just about survival; it’s about thriving in the messiness of it all. The laughs continue as they share stories of their own parenting fails and victories, reminding us that every misstep is just another opportunity to learn and grow alongside our kids.

The episode wraps up with some solid takeaways: prioritize your family, find that community, and don’t shy away from vulnerability. Josh’s insights serve as a powerful reminder that while parenting against the current is tough, it’s also a journey filled with grace, laughter, and the occasional facepalm moment. So grab your coffee, kick back, and enjoy this candid conversation about parenting in a world that often feels upside down.

In a world where parenting feels like an extreme sport, Josh Poteet joins Ashley to share some real talk about the trials and tribulations of raising kids today. He kicks things off by reflecting on his own upbringing, contrasting it with the experiences of parents now who often feel isolated in their parenting journeys. The duo gets deep into the nitty-gritty of what it means to intentionally shepherd your kids' hearts in a society where distractions are a dime a dozen. They discuss the critical need for community support and how it takes a village—not just for kids, but for parents too. This episode isn’t just about the struggles, though; it’s packed with relatable humor and the kind of candidness that makes you feel like you’re chatting with friends over coffee.

As Josh shares insights from his book, 'Parenting Against the Current', he dives into the importance of having a clear vision for your family. He challenges the notion that parenting can be approached with a ‘wing it’ mentality. Instead, he emphasizes the need for a destination—something parents can aim toward. Whether it's instilling values or creating a loving home, the conversation highlights that intentionality is key. Expect some hearty laughs as they exchange tales of parenting fails, from embarrassing moments in public to the epic meltdowns that come with the territory. It’s clear that while parenting can be a rollercoaster, the shared experiences and community support make the ride a little less daunting.

The episode culminates in a powerful reminder that even amidst the chaos, there’s beauty in vulnerability. Josh encourages parents to lean on each other and to remember that it’s okay to not have everything figured out. They wrap up with practical advice on how to build a supportive community, reminding listeners that they’re not alone in this wild journey. So, tune in for a mix of laughter, wisdom, and a whole lot of realness about the art of parenting against the current!

Takeaways:

• Parenting is a wild ride, and it's crucial to create a village for support.
• Discipling our kids intentionally is a challenge, but it's necessary to avoid putting it on the back burner.
• It's essential to have a clear destination for parenting, such as loving God and each other.
• Vulnerability in parenting can deepen relationships and build credibility with our kids.