Guest Jennie Allen: What to Do With Your Worried, Whirly Thoughts

In this meaningful and heart-stirring conversation, author and speaker Jennie Allen shares the heart behind her first children’s book, What to Do With Your Worried, Whirly Thoughts—a beautifully illustrated tool for kids struggling with anxious thinking. Jennie reveals how the mental health crisis, particularly among children, compelled her to translate the message of her bestselling adult book Get Out of Your Head into a form accessible to young readers. She opens up about her own battle with anxious thoughts, the heartbreaking signs of anxiety she’s seen in the lives of children around her, and how biblical truth paired with simple daily practices can bring healing and clarity. You’ll also hear Jennie’s passionate challenge to parents: be willing to swim upstream. Say “no” to cultural norms like early smartphone use, and instead, fight for your child’s mind and joy. There’s power in practicing gratitude, movement, connection, and trusting in God’s truth—no matter your age. 💬 Top Takeaways: Anxiety is the pandemic under the pandemic. And it’s hitting our kids hard. Your thoughts can be taken captive. You’re not at the mercy of your mind. Connection crushes isolation. We were made to live in community. Gratitude resets perspective. A small shift can start big healing. Simple steps work. Move your body, talk to someone, speak God’s truth. Real Talk for Parents: Jennie urges parents not to fear being the “bad guy.” From delaying phones to prioritizing real-life experiences, she testifies how hard choices led her children into richer, freer lives. Her son’s story—captured in a joint podcast on her site—serves as a warning and a hope-filled guide for others. Spiritual Revival on the Rise? Jennie shares her belief that revival is already here. From packed college worship gatherings to Gather25 reaching 7 million people globally, she sees the Holy Spirit moving across generations and nations. “For all the darkness, the anxiety, the loneliness—it creates desperation for God.” 🎙️ Listen Now If You… Are a parent wanting practical, faith-based ways to help your anxious child Want to raise kids who know how to take their thoughts captive Need encouragement that revival is not just coming—it’s here Are ready to be a bold parent with eternal perspective 📚 Resources Mentioned: What to Do With Your Worried, Whirly Thoughts – Jennie Allen’s children’s book Gather25 global worship event 🙌 A Prayer for Today: God, thank You for creating our minds with purpose. Help us—and our children—learn to take every thought captive. Replace anxiety with truth, fear with faith, and isolation with connection. Use our families as places of revival. In Jesus’ name, amen. Subscribe, rate, and share this episode with a parent who needs some encouragement today. And for more faith-driven podcasts, visit LifeAudio.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.