The Balanced Family

Hey friends—just a quick update from Ben and Jessica! We’re hitting pause on the podcast for the rest of the summer so we can soak up time with our girls and prep them for the new school year. We’re also taking this time to dream, plan, and think about what’s next for The Balanced Family podcast.We’d love to hear your feedback as we plan future episodes. What topics do you want more of? What’s been helpful?💌 Send us a note: [email protected] for being part of this with us. We’ll be back soon!Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

In this episode, we dive into practical, bite-sized strategies to reignite your connection. Discover powerful "10-minute marriage fixes" you can implement today – no babysitter required! Learn how small, consistent efforts can create big impact, strengthening your bond and fostering deeper intimacy. Tune in for actionable tips to keep your relationship thriving amidst life's demands.Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

In this episode, Ben and Jessica discuss balancing health and realistic goals! After years of tracking food and weight, she decided to approach her well-being differently, focusing on holistic replenishment. Discover how she investigated lasting effects of gestational diabetes, explored personalized lab insights and implemented dietary shifts. This episode offers a refreshing perspective on balancing health with realistic goals, challenging the "bounce back" culture to find what truly nurtures your body and mind.Function Health Discount Code: JLAGRONE10 Click the link for the code to be automatically applied: https://my.functionhealth.com/signup?code=JLAGRONE10&_saasquatch=JLAGRONE10 Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

In this raw and personal episode, Ben and Jessica kick off a two-part series on body image after babies. Today, they dive into the toxic idea of “bouncing back” and the quiet (and not-so-quiet) shame that so many moms feel about their postpartum bodies.Whether you've struggled with the pressure to "get your body back" or just want a healthier, more grace-filled perspective on postpartum wellness, this episode offers a thoughtful and faith-centered take on what it really means to care for your body.Sometimes the detox we need isn’t physical—it’s mental.Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

Taking your kids to Disney World or Universal Studios? It’s magical, chaotic, expensive—and totally worth it (mostly). In this episode, we break down our top ten takeaways from our recent family trip to Orlando, including what worked, what we’d skip next time, and the moments we’ll never forget. We were privilege to visit the all-new Epic Universe as well. We'll tell you all about it!Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

This week, we dive into the age-old debate: diet vs. exercise—which one actually matters more? We explore some surprising science behind weight loss, energy levels, and long-term health. Plus, we share our personal experiences juggling food, fitness, and family life—and what’s actually realistic when you’re raising kids. Whether you're trying to get back on track or just curious what the research says, this one’s for you.Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

This week we address a perfect mix of pregnancy, birth, and parenting questions we received from moms in our Balanced Families membership. From straightforward birth planning advice to a deep dive into toddler psychology, this episode is full of practical tips and reflections! You’ll also hear a rich discussion about letting kids take risks and a story of when one of our kids fell off a high platform at the playground - every parent’s worst nightmare!Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

This week we’re celebrating our fourteenth anniversary! So today, we’re pausing to reflect on fourteen powerful lessons learned that any couple can glean from. You’ll hear about our expectations vs reality, how we’ve handled big conflicts, popular marriage tips we do NOT follow, and a controversial philosophy on leadership in the home. It’s a dynamic discussion around marital nuances we’ve captured after years of walking through fire together. You don’t want to miss this one!Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

Ever thought about growing your own food—even if you don’t have much land? In this episode, we share how our suburban family started a backyard garden, what we grow and preserve, and how it’s brought us closer together. We also give simple tips for getting started—no matter how small your space is!Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

Breastfeeding doesn’t come naturally for every mom, and dads feel like there’s nothing they can do to help. This episode is packed full of tips and advice for moms as they start breastfeeding and discuss how partners can support in practical ways.Today, we’re breaking down breastfeeding 101, sharing our own journey, and jumping into topics like- what to expect the first two weeks- the “fussy period” (6-10 weeks)- tongue ties, latch difficulties, and when to get help- how partners can supportGet prepared for your breastfeeding journey through our online course taught by an IBCLC: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/breastfeeding-made-simpleText us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

BEN GETS ROASTED! Here’s what happens when a chronic underachieving cheapskate asks out the girl who has it all together.Dedicated to all the men out there who are just plain dumb sometimes—but still get to be with the girl of their dreams!Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

People are more connected than ever through online communities. But to what extent can they replace our in-person connections? Today, we’re breaking that question down by sharing specific stories about our own in-person and online relationships and how they’ve both shaped us in powerful ways. We discuss how you can leverage both online and in-person communities for different purposes for your family and it not be an either-or struggle. Lastly, we share how this specific question inspired us to create our own online village for parents and why it is resonating with so many people around the globe.Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

Today we're talking about screen time — and why it's less about strict rules and more about building an intentional family culture. We share how our views on technology have changed over time and why flexibility, trust, and long-term thinking matter more than ever.In this episode we discuss:- How to set screen time expectations that match your family values- Giving yourself permission to adapt as your family grows and changes- Preparing now for the teenage yearsScreens are part of lives — but they don’t have to take over our lives!Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

We’re taking it all the way back to where it started—our first birth story!In this episode, we share what it was like doing a natural birth at a birthing center, having a midwife, and what we wished we knew beforehand.From signs of early labor to hospital transfer, avoiding the cascade of interventions, and the emotional rollercoaster of delivery - this story is honest, unfiltered, and packed with lessons we didn’t even know we needed at the time.Warning: if you're currently pregnant and want to protect your peace of mind you may NOT want to listen because this birth was a bit traumatic in a few ways. However, this is still a beautiful story about finding joy when things don't pan out the way you expect, which is an important part of becoming a balanced family.In fact, it was this story that planted the seed in our hearts to become content creators.Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

In Part 2 of our deep dive into old-school parenting, we’re looking at the darker side of traditional methods—what didn’t age well, what created wounds, and why some things need to be left in the past.From emotional distance to the overuse of fear and shame, we explore how certain “tough love” tactics may have built grit—but often at the cost of connection and relationship.This isn’t about blaming past generations or glorifying the present—it’s about finding truth in the nuance.In this episode, we unpack:- The downsides of authoritarian parenting and emotional suppression- Why some kids grew up tough but disconnected- The danger of equating achievement with worth- How we as parents can be strong and firm while also nurturing and relationalText us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

What did old-school parenting get right—and what are we missing today because of it?In Part 1 of this conversation, we take a deep dive into the values that shaped past generations: discipline, grit, respect, and good old-fashioned hard work. We talk about how kids used to be expected to pull their weight, take risks, and build resilience—and how those expectations helped shape character and achievement.But here’s the tension:The American Dream used to be built on hustle. Now, it often feels like it’s built on avoiding trauma and chasing personal fulfillment. Have we lost something in the shift?In this episode, we cover:- Why structure, boundaries, and consequences created safer, more grounded kids- How grit and responsibility were once non-negotiables- The role of respect and authority in shaping community- What’s changed in how we view work, purpose, and success- The danger of either romanticizing the past or thinking we’ve outgrown itThis is a conversation about values, not just parenting styles—and why many of us are still wrestling with which traditions to hold onto and which to leave behind.Part 2 drops next week—we’ll dive into the bad and the ugly side of old-school parenting. Don’t miss it!Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

It’s that time of year! It’s warming up and many families get the itch to go camping. But is it even possible to take little ones along? We think so, but you definitely have to count the cost!Today, we’ll share our journey as long-time camping and adventure addicts - plus - outline some tips and tricks that helped us make it more enjoyable when our kids were especially young.Happy camping!Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

Few parenting topics spark as much controversy as sleep training. Some swear by it, others call it cruel. But here’s the thing—what if sleep training isn’t what you think it is? What if it’s possible to have a balanced approach – one that is responsive to your baby’s needs and actually helps them develop healthy sleep habits?In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on why (and how) we sleep trained our kids—and why we’d do it again in a heartbeat. Spoiler: it wasn’t harsh, neglecting or self-serving. Instead, it was about balance, sanity, and creating a home where everyone slept better.Today, we’re tackling:The biggest myths about sleep training (and why people get it wrong)How this helped shape our entire parenting philosophy (parent-centric vs. child-centric homes—can there be a balance?)The practical, non-extreme approach we took to help our babies sleep (without guilt or exhaustion)Why good sleep isn’t just about the baby—it’s about you, your partner, and your family’s well-beingWe’re not saying our approach is the only way for kids to sleep. Far from it! We’re just sharing what worked for us.Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

Which is harder: having your first baby or adding a second? In this episode, we dive into the debate that every parent has an opinion on! We’ll break down the biggest challenges of both transitions—going from no kids to one vs. one to two—based on our own experience and what we’ve heard from other parents. We’ll also give some really helpful tips for parents entering either one of these transitions.What about YOU? Was 0-1 or 1-2 the harder transition for you? Let us know by commenting on Spotify, social media, or shoot us an email at [email protected] us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

Parenthood puts tremendous strain on even the healthiest marriages. But are there expectations we put on ourselves and our spouses that make things harder than they need to be? Is a happy marriage even possible during this period or is the hardship just something to tolerate? Today, the Lagrones break down how they faced marital strain while raising kids and discuss the keys to keeping their love authentic and fresh.TAKE THE 30-DAY CHALLENGE: Listen to Episode 02 with your spouse. Then, commit to the challenge we share in the episode for AT LEAST 14 days (30 days = even better). Tell us how it’s impacted your marriage by emailing us at [email protected]. We’ll select one lucky couple’s story to read aloud in a future episode and gift them a $100 “date night gift card”!Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

It’s Q and A time! Today, we’re answering lots of random questions. Birth prep tips, unique baby names, arguing in front of kids, family traveling tips - this one is like a multi-course meal. Want to ask a question for the next Q and A? Shoot us an email!Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

Is a child an inconvenience or a blessing? Does having more kids actually make you happier? If so, why are adults in the West having LESS kids? Today, the Lagrones open up about the conflicting emotions of parenthood that move them both to tears. They end by discussing a controversial passage in the Bible that forever transformed their views of family life. This is a powerful episode you don't want to miss!Book referenced: All Joy and No Fun: The Paradox of Modern Parenthood by Jennifer SeniorText us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

Ben and Jessica do NOT recommend living off credit cards. But what are you supposed to do when there’s no other option? And how do you stop financial stress from dominating your mind and stealing the joy from your home? Today, you’ll hear step-by-step how the Lagrones ditched their credit cards and became debt-free (mostly). But first, they’ll share a more important part of their journey: how they found contentment even when money was tight. But this episode applies to every family no matter their financial state. In fact, Ben has a special challenge for the couples out there living in abundance. You won’t want to miss this highly practical yet deeply profound discussion about finding authentic financial freedom.Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

Today, the Lagrones are continuing their discussion about crunchy life. Has crunchiness become too commercialized? Is it all just a conspiracy? How is it affecting this generation of parents (and their kids)? Why do so many crunchy people have “toxic personalities”? Join Ben and Jessica as they go to the dark side of crunchy life but eventually arrive at a conclusion that’s hopeful, empowering, and of course - balanced.This series is inspired by the book, Really Very Crunchy: A Beginner's Guide to Removing Toxins from Your Life without Adding Them to Your Personality by Emily Morrow.Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

The crunchy lifestyle is big, and as you’ll learn in this two-part series, it’s also big business. What are the benefits and drawbacks parents face when they try to live a more natural, holistic lifestyle? When does the desire to make healthier choices crossover into obsession? In this series, you’ll learn just how crunchy the Lagrones are and how they balance health with convenience.This series is inspired by the book, Really Very Crunchy: A Beginner's Guide to Removing Toxins from Your Life without Adding Them to Your Personality by Emily Morrow.Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

Anxiety in children and teens is on the rise. But get this: it’s also on the rise in parents as well. Are the two related? What if parents and kids are in a cycle of worry that’s just feeding off each other? Or what if we’re all talking about anxiety too much and we’re all just anxious about feeling anxious? In this episode, Ben and Jessica share their stories about anxiety, reflect on our fast-changing society, and talk about building a joyful home.Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

Gentle parenting is a parenting style that emphasizes empathy, respect, and connection with children. Social media is full of influencers and “experts” explaining how to use loving and proactive techniques with kids rather than harsh or reactive ones. Sounds great, right? Well, the problem is that many promises of this movement don’t pan out or provide the balance children need. As Ben and Jessica find today, there are many respectable consequences from this movement but also some devastating ones that have emerged over time.Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

The Lagrones have a wild story for you, today. It’s about the circumstances surrounding their lives when they had their third baby and why raising her looked differently than their other kids. On the surface, you might think this is about formula versus breastmilk. But that is FAR from what this episode is about. It’s about knowing when to endure but also knowing when to quit. It’s about making decisions as a united couple and shutting out the noises in your lives. Most importantly, it’s about finding peace in chaos. MEN: don’t think this is episode is just for women. If you want to learn to love your wife better, you need to understand her world (as Ben attempts to today). And this is a just a small glimpse into it. Welcome to the world of MOM SHAME.Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

TAKE THE CHALLENGE: Share this episode with your spouse and be sure you both listen to it. Then, commit to the challenge we share in the episode for AT LEAST 14 days (30 days = even better). Email us (https://www.balancedfamilies.com/contact-us) and share how it’s impacted your marriage. We’ll select one lucky couple’s story to read aloud in a future episode and gift them a $100 “date night gift card”! More about this episode:They say opposites attract, but that wasn’t the case when Ben and Jessica began dating. They were both stubborn, opinionated, and relentlessly passionate. Even as they got married and started a family, it felt like every discussion turned into “intense fellowship” or needless criticism of one another. This constant friction put their marriage on a path towards constant cynicism and disappointment, even if their covenant remained strong. Everything changed when Ben had an idea for a 30-day challenge. Today, you’ll hear their individual versions of the story. While they still can’t agree on when this story took place (hilariously), they both agree it was massively transformative on a personal level and changed the trajectory of their marriage forever. Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

Welcome to our podcast! This episode is about how we became content creators in 2020, started a business, and began what we’ve coined the “Balance Families Movement.” We hope you’ll join it! We’ll also reflect on how polarized our world has become and how it affects us as parents. The number of decisions we have to make puts our brains on overdrive and the amount of information and opinions out there is just overwhelming. Today, we'll share some of the hard-earned secrets we've found as a couple to maintain joy amidst the grind of family life.Text us your thoughts Support the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/

Launching January 7, 2025! The Balanced Family podcast is a heartfelt talk about building a family in a polarized, stressed-out world. Ben and Jessica Lagrone, former teachers and parents of three, share their experiences and insights in a way that's relatable, entertaining, and inspiring. They're all about being intentional and talking about the stuff that matters. It’s the perfect blend of deep yet down-to-earth - like sitting down with good friends you can laugh with but also talk about the important things. Pull up a seat and listen in as they try to find more balance in their marriage, parenting, and perspectives.Text us your thoughtsSupport the showUse code PODCAST to save 15% on our online courses and exclusive community for expecting parents: https://www.balancedfamilies.com/