Ben Lippen Podcast

The manger is quieter than our calendars, and that’s the point. We sit with Dr. Ben Porter to explore how the Nativity’s simplicity, an ordinary place, a young family, and the presence of God, can reset our pace, heal our hurry, and restore what matters most. Instead of chasing perfection, we trace a gentler path toward presence, where spiritual growth often happens off‑schedule and in stillness.We share practical ways to make room for God in daily life: early‑morning rhythms, dim spaces that reduce visual noise, and simple habits that invite unhurried prayer and Scripture. The conversation follows the Gospel thread from Bethlehem to today; God meets people in ordinary places and uses overlooked people for extraordinary purposes. The shepherds become our teachers; availability beats acclaim. Along the way, we talk about entertainment versus engagement and why our best days end with meaningful connection rather than passive consumption.This episode leans into the heart of Advent themes: hope, peace, love, and joy, as lived realities, not seasonal slogans. We unpack how unconditional love is revealed in Christ’s birth, why presence uncovers the needs beneath words, and how everyday interactions build relationships that last. For our school community and beyond, Dr. Porter’s “dash” metaphor challenges us to steward this season well: show up for one another, celebrate generously, support steadily, and let quiet faithfulness point to Jesus.If this conversation helps you breathe a little deeper and choose presence over performance, share it with a friend, subscribe for more thoughtful episodes, and leave a review to help others find the show. What simple practice will you start this week?

Love that only lives in feelings fades fast. Love that takes action changes homes, classrooms, churches, and neighborhoods. In this Advent conversation, we sit down with Cliff Evans, high school Bible teacher and pastor, to map a clear, practical path from affection to action and from good intentions to habits that actually serve people. We start with four anchors of biblical love: sacrificial, unconditional, committed, and active. Then we bring them to life with stories from marriage and parenting, where small choices, like how you handle a tense moment or even a load of laundry, become the training ground for a love that stays when it’s hard.From there, we widen the lens to our shared life. How do we love neighbors who don’t think or vote like we do? What does disciplined love look like in a school on a tired Friday, or online when outrage is easy and empathy is rare? We connect the practices of patience and service to the heart of Advent: God’s decisive act of love in sending Jesus. The Nativity scene becomes more than a tradition—it’s a study in love that listens and moves, with Mary’s pondering, Joseph’s faithfulness, and shepherds who run to witness good news. That same pattern calls us to small, consistent acts that open doors for the Gospel in ordinary places.This is a warm, candid, and deeply practical reflection for anyone who wants to move beyond hollow sentiment into a love that heals. You’ll leave with a renewed vision of love as disciplined practice, a challenge to cross social lines with genuine care, and a fresh appreciation for Advent as love in motion. If this conversation helps you, share it with a friend, leave a review, and subscribe so you don’t miss the next step in our Advent journey.

Joy that survives sorrow is not a mood; it’s the steady life of Christ in us. We open our Advent series episode on Joy by tracing where joy comes from, why it holds when happiness fails, and how ordinary people can practice rejoicing without faking smiles or denying pain. Our guest, Joey Caldwell, a high school Bible teacher at Ben Lippen, shares a vulnerable story of years-long infertility, heartbreaking loss, adoption, and a slow return from depression and panic. Through it all, a surprising truth emerges: joy never moved, because Jesus never moved.We unpack the core difference between happiness and Christian joy, using Scripture to ground the idea that joy is a gift of the Spirit, deeply tied to peace, love, and abiding. From Luke’s “good news of great joy” to Revelation 21’s promise of God dwelling with his people, we explore why joy can coexist with grief and how rejoicing becomes a spiritual discipline. You’ll hear practical ways to “rehearse the gospel” in daily life; gratitude that names grace, prayer that keeps the heart soft, obedience that aligns our loves, and worship that trains our desires. We also talk about Advent rhythms that keep the season focused: fasting from distractions, telling the story clearly to our kids, singing, serving, and slowing down to rest.If you’ve confused joy with feelings or wondered how to choose joy when your heart feels numb, this conversation offers clear language, honest testimony, and doable practices. Walk away with a renewed vision of joy as a state of being in Christ; Peace at rest, Love in action, and hope that endures. If this encourages you, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs courage today, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway.

Peace isn’t the same as quiet. Together with high school Bible teacher Nathan Aylestock, we unpack why Scripture’s vision of shalom is more than a calm moment; it’s restored relationship with God that reshapes our inner world and our everyday conflicts. From Genesis 3:15 to Isaiah 9:6 and John 14:27, we trace the promise of a Prince of Peace who bridges the gap sin created and offers a wholeness the world can’t replicate or revoke.Nathan helps us draw a clear line between circumstantial calm and Christ-centered peace. We talk through what it means to let Jesus guard our hearts and minds, why his presence, not our control, anchors us, and how trust grows when circumstances refuse to change. Then we get practical: listening before reacting, forgiving as we’ve been forgiven, answering gently, and seeing every person as an image bearer. Those practices aren’t niceties; they’re the visible fruit of peace at work in a reconciled heart.We also step into the stories of Moses and Peter, two people with public failures who encountered God’s restoring peace and stepped into renewed purpose. Their journeys remind us that past mistakes don’t get the final say. Finally, we name the quiet thieves of peace, comparison, envy, fear, and the urge to control, and offer Advent-ready habits to turn your focus back to Jesus. If you’re hungry for a peace that outlasts chaos and heals relationships, this conversation will help you live it with courage and love.If this encouraged you, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs peace today, and leave a review to help others find the message.

In this episode, we sat down with Dale Angstadt, longtime Ben Lippen teacher, husband, and honest disciple of the Word, to trace the true meaning of biblical hope. Mr. Angstadt names hope as a chosen trust in God’s character, not a thin optimism, and walks us through the tangible ways God meets us in the waiting: Abraham’s dust and stars, Mary’s sign in Elizabeth, and the cross anchored in history. These are the handholds that keep faith steady when feelings wobble.Across the conversation, Scripture frames reality without denial. Romans 8 points to present suffering and future glory, clarifying that the “good” at work is our transformation into the likeness of Christ. Mr. Angstadt shares a raw year marked by illness, surgeries, and helplessness, and yet a paradox emerges: greater hardship creates deeper joy. That shift comes from a crucial question: do we define God by our circumstances, or interpret our circumstances by who God is? From Zechariah’s hesitation to Mary’s trust, perspective becomes discipleship in real time.We also unpack the practices that grow durable hope: reading the Bible until it shapes our inner speech, abiding in Jesus with a daily conversation, and letting tried faith mature into quiet wisdom. Then comes the outward turn. Jesus calls us salt and light; we cannot share what we do not live. When a life is flavored with hope, people notice. They ask. And we answer with gentleness about the hope within us. This Advent, come learn how to anchor your heart in a God who does not move, even as the world keeps spinning.If this conversation encouraged you, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs courage today, and leave a review with one practice that helps you keep hope.

A mountain of trust, a school reborn, and a community knit together by generosity—this conversation with Kelly Davis, Ben Lippen’s development director, uncovers how giving has guided the school from its Asheville roots to a thriving, multi-campus community in Columbia. We revisit the origin story, from summer conferences to a boarding school, the heartbreak of the 1980 fire, and the decision that set a new course. Through it all, one thread remains: a mission to educate from a biblical worldview and prepare students to impact the nations.Kelly offers a candid look at development as more than fundraising. It’s stewardship of relationships, a heart posture that views resources as God’s and giving as discipleship. You’ll hear unforgettable stories: a retired teacher’s unexpected six-figure gift that honors decades of faithful classrooms, a trembling $5 check that moves a team to tears, and Jim’s life changed by a church collection that led him to Christ and later to launch a scholarship so others could follow. These moments show how generosity—small or large—creates a lasting ripple across generations.We also unpack the Falcon Fund, Ben Lippen’s annual giving program that delivers the margin of excellence beyond what tuition covers. From classroom tools and teacher support to student programs across all campuses, the Falcon Fund turns vision into everyday impact. Whether you’re an alum, parent, or friend of the school, you’ll come away with a deeper sense of how prayer, service, and financial gifts work together to sustain kingdom education and shape whole lives.If this conversation resonates, share it with someone who loves seeing students thrive, subscribe for more stories like this, and leave a review to help others find the show.

Parenting gets harder when life does too—divorce, grief, tech overload, and the daily strain can leave even steady homes frayed. We sat down with Dr. Seth Scott to unpack a different path: lead with grace, lean on community, and parent the whole child—body, mind, relationships, and spirit. Rather than trying to be the sole fixer, we focus on building a circle of care and setting clear, shared expectations that calm chaos and help kids thrive.Dr. Scott breaks down practical co-parenting strategies after separation, including unifying house rules across homes and agreeing on consequences ahead of time so decisions aren’t made in anger or fatigue. We talk about how kids actually grieve—often through play and uneven waves of emotion—and how to model sadness without overwhelming them. You’ll hear how to teach an emotions vocabulary, guide appropriate expression, and use the “rule of five” adults to give children a wider net of support. When trust has been broken, he offers a simple script for repair that restores connection without shame: apologize clearly, ask for forgiveness, and make amends.We also explore wise transparency—what to share, how much, and why it matters to show our kids that we seek help from peers, pastors, and counselors when needed. Dr. Scott outlines when professional counseling makes sense, especially when past wounds block present growth, and why the church is uniquely positioned to provide sustained encouragement, presence, and practical care. Through it all, we return to hope: God’s love and sovereignty hold our families, and perspective grows when we’re not walking alone.If this conversation helps, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs encouragement, and leave a quick review so more parents can find practical hope. Your support helps us keep these deep, honest conversations coming.

What if the thing making parenting feel impossible isn’t you, but the way our world flips risk and connection on their heads? We sit down with Dr. Seth Scott—counselor educator, assistant dean, and dad—to unpack why raising kids in today’s culture can feel like sprinting uphill with a phone in each hand. From earlier individuation and eroding community to the tug-of-war over when to give a child a phone, we trace how isolation sneaks in, why symptoms deserve curiosity, and where parents can reclaim steady ground.We walk through the biggest modern pressure points: the myth of constant safety, the very real hazards of unfiltered online life, and the rising expectation that parents should always know, always respond, always fix. Dr. Scott offers a whole-child framework—biological, psychological, social, and spiritual—that helps reframe “acting out” as a signal. Sometimes the right move is protein and bedtime, not punishment. We dig into how tech can numb discomfort just enough to stall growth, and how to rebuild the muscles of boredom tolerance, conflict repair, and resilience so kids can handle real-life stress without spiraling.Parents aren’t sidelined in this story. Using the reservoir-and-dam metaphor, we explore emotional self-awareness, practical outlets that prevent evening meltdowns, and the power of tag-teaming with a spouse or trusted community. The aim isn’t perfect parenting; it’s “good enough” parenting grounded in consistent love, clear limits, and thoughtful repair. You’ll leave with language for tough transitions, ideas to delay or right-size phones, and confidence to see behavior as information, not defiance.If this conversation helps you breathe a little easier, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs encouragement, and leave a quick review so more parents can find it. What hard place are you navigating right now?

What happens when God redirects your carefully laid plans? Dr. Bill Jones knows this redirection intimately. Once determined to serve as an overseas church planter among unreached people groups, a pivotal conversation with three seminary graduates forever changed his trajectory, leading him to Columbia International University and an unexpected leadership path.Dr. Jones shares how a simple yet profound analogy—comparing the world to waffles rather than pancakes—revolutionized his understanding of missions. This new perspective inspired him to found Crossover Global, one of the first mission agencies focused specifically on reaching cultural groups rather than countries. Today, that organization has planted more than 6,000 churches among Muslims and Hindus across over 30 countries—far exceeding what he might have accomplished alone.The thread of breaking generational cycles runs powerfully through Dr. Jones' testimony. Having grown up in what he describes as an "unchurched, non-Christian, dysfunctional home" marked by addiction, mental health struggles, and broken relationships, he now leads a family transformed by faith. His daily prayer from Isaiah 59:21—that God's Spirit and Word would remain with his offspring and his offspring's offspring—reflects his passion for multi-generational impact.As president of CIU and champion of Ben Lippen School, Dr. Jones advocates for education that equips students "from a biblical worldview to impact the nations." He believes deeply in developing both "professional ministers" and "ministering professionals," recognizing that all believers have a divine platform for influence regardless of vocation. His own family experienced the transformative power of Christian education, particularly through Ben Lippin's specialized learning support that dramatically improved his son's academic performance and life trajectory.Listen as Dr. Jones shares practical wisdom on staying faithful in your current sphere, developing spiritual disciplines through his "five fingers" approach to Scripture, and embracing God's redirection for kingdom impact that spans generations and continents. His journey reminds us that sometimes our greatest contribution comes through surrendering our original plans to God's greater vision.

Ever wondered how faith holds up when life throws its worst at you? Joe Polek's story might just give you the answer you're seeking.When Joe and his family relocated to Columbia in 2012 for a Christian radio position, they couldn't have anticipated the journey ahead. What began as a simple school choice for their daughters evolved into a profound testimony of God's provision through impossible circumstances. Now, with one daughter approaching graduation as a "lifer" at Ben Lippen and another entering high school, Joe reflects on the divine orchestration that kept his family connected to this special community.The conversation takes a powerful turn as Joe candidly shares about losing his job when the radio station was sold, followed by a seizure that led to brain surgery—all while lacking health insurance. Yet through these harrowing challenges, the Ben Lippen and broader Christian community surrounded the Pollock family with remarkable support. Most astonishingly, the anonymous financial gifts they received totaled exactly $10,000—precisely matching the pay cut Joe had taken when forced to change jobs.Joe's spiritual journey began at a snowy Young Life camp where a former NYC police officer's presentation of the gospel resonated in ways church never had. This connection to Young Life came full circle years later when, at his first Ben Lippen parent dinner, Joe found himself seated next to the local Young Life director—one of many "divine appointments" that confirmed his family's path.With over two decades in Christian radio, Joe offers valuable insights about authentic faith communication. He emphasizes the Young Life philosophy of "earning the right to be heard" by building genuine relationships before sharing spiritual truths—an approach that guides his work on air and in his diverse neighborhood community.For anyone navigating uncertainty, Joe's go-to scripture provides timeless wisdom: "Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own" (Matthew 6:34). Having weathered job loss, relocation, financial strain, and serious health challenges, Joe's testimony demonstrates how this biblical principle translates into daily trust.Listen to this episode for a powerful reminder that sometimes our greatest challenges reveal God's most remarkable provision—and that authentic community plays an essential role in the journey of faith.Do you have a story of unexpected provision during difficult times? We'd love to hear about it! Share your experience in the comments or reach out to us on social media.

What happens when a lifetime of theological wisdom gets transmitted from one generation to the next? Mark Ross and Emily Woodard's podcast "I Ask My Dad" offers a compelling answer—and a model for families seeking deeper spiritual connections.The father-daughter duo never intended to create a podcast. As Emily explains, friends had long suggested that her father's biblical teaching should be recorded, but it wasn't until she needed content for a Bible reading group that the idea took root. What began as a modest plan for "10-minute episodes" quickly evolved into a weekly commitment that has now produced over 75 episodes exploring Scripture chronologically and tackling systematic theology.Their conversation reveals the beautiful dynamic at the heart of intergenerational faith transmission. Emily's thoughtful questions—often drawn from her experience teaching women at church—push her father to explore Scripture from fresh angles. Mark, drawing on 40 years of pastoral teaching experience, provides insights that satisfy both intellectual curiosity and spiritual hunger. Both admit they've grown through the experience, with Mark noting, "It's been a delight to be pushed in ways that I wouldn't have been pushed had I been left to myself."For listeners feeling disconnected or intimidated by Scripture, they offer practical wisdom gained from experience. Mark points to the Psalms as evidence that periods of spiritual disconnection are normal, not necessarily signs of failure. Emily encourages those intimidated by Bible reading to remember that even teachers once had to learn, suggesting resources like Bible Project videos alongside trusted mentors. Both emphasize the importance of community in spiritual growth—reaching out to others who might feel equally disconnected often becomes the path to renewed connection.What started as biblical teaching has unexpectedly modeled how families can discuss faith across generations. As Emily puts it, "I hope it is an example of people being able to talk within their family about faith, doctrine, and how theology impacts what we believe and how we live together." Their closing thought captures the enduring value of Scripture engagement: "The Word of God doesn't return void, so any effort put forth will reap benefits."Wondering how to deepen theological conversations in your own family? Listen to "I Ask My Dad" on all major podcast platforms and discover how cross-generational dialogue transforms both understanding and faith.

What happens when your identity is shaken to its foundation? Taylor Nelson, Director of Fine Arts at Ben Lippen School, takes us on an intimate journey through the defining moments that shaped his understanding of art, faith, and purpose.As Taylor shares stories from his six years at Ben Lippen and his previous teaching experience in Charlotte, we discover a man driven by more than just artistic excellence. His personal narrative weaves through travels across continents (with a goal of "seven continents by 70"), a loving marriage, and the joy of new parenthood with five-month-old son Davis. But beneath these achievements lies a powerful testimony of transformation.During college, Taylor faced a crisis that would redefine everything. As a vocal performance major whose entire identity was wrapped up in being "the music guy," he suddenly lost his voice for months. Through this challenging season, Taylor discovered the danger of making good things—like artistic talent—into ultimate things. "Nothing is strong enough or firm enough to root my identity on the inside except Christ," he realized, a lesson that now permeates his educational philosophy.This revelation shapes how Taylor leads Ben Lippen’s thriving arts program. Rather than teaching students to create for self-glory or recognition, he instills a three-fold purpose: creating "for God, for others, and for fun." This approach frees young artists from the crushing weight of perfectionism and redirects their focus toward reflecting their Creator's excellence.Under Taylor's leadership, Ben Lippen’s arts department has flourished with expanded opportunities, expert instruction, and a biblical worldview. Recent musical productions have nearly sold out, demonstrating growing community support. Looking ahead, Taylor hints at exciting developments including potential tours and international experiences that will further enrich students' artistic journeys.Want to support this vision of arts education that transforms not just skills but hearts? Connect with Taylor at [email protected] or join the Friends of Fine Arts Booster Club at benlippin.com/fofa.

Unlocking the mystery of dyslexia and revealing the transformative power of specialized instruction, this episode takes listeners deep into the world of neurodiversity through the lens of Ben Lippen School's innovative program, The Ridge. Mrs. Sarah Beth Helsley and Mrs. Sara Smithson, experts in Orton-Gillingham methodology, break down the complex realities of dyslexia with clarity and compassion. They offer a powerful analogy comparing the dyslexic reading experience to navigating a highway filled with potholes and detours – a vivid illustration that helps parents, educators, and community members understand the daily challenges these students face.The conversation dismantles harmful myths that have long surrounded dyslexia. Letters aren't actually "flipping" or "dancing" on the page, and most crucially, dyslexia has absolutely nothing to do with intelligence. In fact, many individuals with dyslexia possess extraordinary cognitive abilities and unique strengths, with approximately 35% of entrepreneurs identifying as dyslexic, including visionaries like Steve Jobs and Albert Einstein.What sets this discussion apart is its integration of faith and specialized education. The Ridge program stands as a testament to what's possible when schools embrace neurodiversity while maintaining their core values. Students can receive the specialized instruction they need without leaving their school community or sacrificing their faith-based education. As Smithson shares from her dual perspective as both an educator and mother of a child with dyslexia, "It's been a huge answer to prayer for my family."Whether you're a parent concerned about your child's reading development, an educator seeking to better support diverse learners, or simply someone interested in how schools can become more inclusive while staying true to their mission, this episode offers both practical insights and inspirational possibilities. Join us as we celebrate how each child is "fearfully and wonderfully made".

Dr. Ben Mathew returns to conclude our five-part series on racial reconciliation with a powerful synthesis of biblical teaching and practical wisdom. Rather than diving into political talking points, we ground our conversation in scripture's grand narrative—from creation to revelation—exploring how God's design for a diverse human family unfolds.The journey begins with the Imago Dei, establishing our primary identity as image-bearers before any racial or ethnic distinction. Through the lens of Genesis 11 and Acts 2, we witness God's judgment through language division at Babel contrasted with his redemptive work through language unification at Pentecost. Most significantly, Revelation reveals Christ's sacrifice specifically ransomed people "from every tribe, language, people and nation"—diversity that brings God glory like a symphony of distinct instruments playing in harmony.When discussing evangelical unity, Dr. Mathew emphasizes holding core Gospel truths with conviction while approaching secondary matters with charity. His practical advice for building cross-cultural relationships starts simply: "Ask people to tell their stories." This human connection builds relational equity that can eventually support more challenging conversations about race.Perhaps most thought-provoking is the biblical evidence for both individual and systemic expressions of sin. Through examples like Achan's family punishment, Daniel's national repentance, and Adam's sin affecting all humanity, scripture acknowledges community responsibility alongside personal accountability—a balanced perspective that challenges our cultural extremes.As our community grows increasingly diverse, Dr. Mathew leaves us with this guiding principle: "The Gospel creates soft hearts and thick skin." Our secure identity in Christ gives us both the compassion and resilience needed to engage difficult conversations with grace, humility, and hope.

Unlock the profound connection between biblical identity and racial reality in our latest episode with Dr. Ben Mathew from Columbia International University. Join us as we explore how prioritizing our faith can help us transcend biases and foster unity within the Ben Lippin School community. Dr. Mathew guides us through the complexities of maintaining our identity in Christ while embracing our diverse backgrounds. Discover how this perspective aligns with the gospel's message of love and redemption, offering a pathway to reconcile differences and build a stronger, more inclusive community.Get ready for an engaging conversation as Dr. Mathew shares his insights on addressing cultural misunderstandings and hurtful comments with compassion and scriptural wisdom. We tackle the challenges of "colorblindness" and "color essentialism," advocating for a balanced approach where our faith informs our views on race and culture without overshadowing our unique identities. Drawing lessons from the unity between Jews and Gentiles in Ephesians, we aim to inspire honest dialogue and understanding. Don't miss the opportunity to connect with Dr. Mathew for further exploration of these vital topics, as he offers his contact information for those eager to continue the conversation.Click here to submit your questions for Dr. Mathew to review.

Discover how the cross shapes our understanding of race and reconciliation with Dr. Ben Mathew on the Ben Lippen Podcast. Join us as we explore the profound themes of creation, fall, cross, redemption, and glory, focusing on the central role of the cross in God's grand narrative. Dr. Mathew offers fresh insights from Revelation 5, illuminating the powerful image of a multi-ethnic community united through Jesus' sacrifice. This episode promises to challenge and enrich your views on how the gospel informs racial discussions, reminding us that the ultimate story is about God's glory and our joy.Through a thoughtful conversation, we examine how God's narrative is one of redemption and reconciliation, emphasizing that while the Bible's metanarrative centers on the gospel, it also informs essential narratives like racial reconciliation. Dr. Mathew, with his extensive knowledge, helps us uncover the significance of Jesus' blood in ransoming people from every tribe, language, people, and nation.  Don't miss this chance to reflect on these profound themes and grow with us on this enlightening journey.Click here to submit your questions and feedback for Dr. Mathew

Dr. Ben Mathew from Columbia International University joins us to explore the intricate relationship between the gospel and racial discussions, guided by a reflective heart posture. Discover how good theology serves as a vital foundation for addressing race through a biblical perspective, using the rich framework of creation, fall, cross, redemption, and glory. While racial reconciliation might not be the Bible's central theme, it emerges as a pivotal subplot in the greater narrative of redemption and God's glory.We journey into the profound concept of intrinsic human value through the eyes of faith and theology. Inspired by a child's innocent perspective and the wisdom of C.S. Lewis, we unravel the sacredness of each individual, created in God's image, worthy of love and respect. The creation story reinforces our collective unity and "very good" nature before the fall. Delving into the tale of the Tower of Babel, we set the stage for understanding our identity, value, and purpose, offering a biblical lens to navigate race and diversity discussions.Our conversation takes a deep dive into the divine plan for redemption and unity as showcased in Genesis. The contrast between human ambition in the Tower of Babel story and God's redemptive promise to Abram illuminates the path from division to unity. By recentering our identity in God's image, we unveil a hope that transcends cultural and ethnic distinctions. Engage with us by submitting your thoughts and questions for Dr. Mathew, as we address them in our concluding episode. Connect with Dr. Matthew at [email protected] and be part of this transformative dialogue.Click here to submit your questions and comments for Dr. Mathew to review.

Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Dr. Ben Mathew, a respected figure in counseling and theology, as we navigate the complex intersection of The Gospel and race at Ben Lippen School. Discover how Dr. Mathew’s multicultural upbringing shapes his unique approach to these sensitive discussions, emphasizing the critical role of heart posture and personal reflection. Learn how grounding our conversations in biblical truth, specifically Jude 3, can be a powerful unifying force, steering us away from political divides and towards a faith-driven dialogue.We explore the delicate balance between holding strong convictions and remaining adaptable, drawing inspiration from biblical figures like Jude and Paul. Through engaging metaphors, such as comparing our heart posture to Gumby and Stretch Armstrong, we illustrate the importance of staying grounded while being flexible. We uncover personal and communal growth opportunities by examining our initial reactions and encouraging honest self-reflection. This episode is a call to embrace God’s invitation to grow beyond our current state, aligning with the sanctification journey.Click here to share your questions about this episode with us.  We will review responses to cover in an upcoming recording

Discover how to navigate the complexities of modern parenting as we wrap up our enlightening series with Chris McKenna from Protect Young Eyes. Chris joins us to equip parents with the tools needed to create tech-savvy homes in a digital world that’s evolving at lightning speed. We promise that by the end of this episode, you'll have a clearer understanding of the potential dangers lurking in popular social media platforms and games like TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat, Roblox, and Fortnite. With firsthand insights gained from creating child-aged accounts, we spotlight the kind of content your kids might encounter online, urging you to be vigilant in assessing its suitability. Through a biblical perspective, we explore how these digital environments should reflect values of holiness, excellence, and praiseworthiness.We also tackle the pressing issue of children's digital footprints and privacy in our hyper-connected age. Consider the hidden risks of sharing personal details online, such as birthdays and school uniforms, akin to revealing a child's baby book to complete strangers. We discuss the dangers of identity theft and the misuse of images through deepfakes, emphasizing the need for parental caution in the digital realm. To support you in safeguarding your children, we introduce valuable resources from Protect Young Eyes, including our guides and "The Download" newsletter, offering the latest updates on digital safety and emerging tech. Our mission is to empower you with practical, faith-centered guidance to protect your family in an ever-changing online landscape.Resource Link:   PYE App Reviews

Can social media be a spiritual stumbling block for children? Chris McKenna from Protect Young Eyes joins us to tackle this thought-provoking question, offering a perspective through a biblical lens. We explore the potential spiritual and emotional challenges posed by social media, urging Christian parents to be vigilant about the dark influences that may accompany digital engagement. Reflecting on Philippians 4:8, we inspire parents to guide their children toward focusing on virtues that truly enrich the soul. This conversation is a call to action for parents striving to uphold their spiritual values in a world dominated by digital pressures.We also offer practical advice for navigating the digital landscape with your children, discussing safer tech options like the Bark phone, Gab, TruMe, Pinwheel, and MM Guardian. Learn how these tools, along with smartwatches and tablets, can serve as transitional devices under parental supervision. Chris shares insights on maintaining open communication with your kids about their digital experiences and reinforces the importance of grace and forgiveness in parenting. By acknowledging past missteps, we encourage taking actionable steps toward a more conscious digital parenting journey. Join us for an insightful discussion on safeguarding your children's well-being in this digital age.Click here for a supportive resource.

Discover the pressing digital challenges faced by today's families with Chris McKenna, founder of Protect Young Eyes, as he shares his personal journey as a father in the digital age on the Ben Lippen Podcast. Gain invaluable insights into the alarming rise of deepfake technology and the pervasive threat of sextortion, both of which are rapidly impacting the lives of countless young people. We promise you'll leave with a deeper understanding of the tools and strategies needed to create tech-ready homes equipped with multiple layers of protection to safeguard against these modern threats.Journey with us as we explore the broader implications of early digital exposure on young minds, comparing it to feeding sugar to a newborn. Chris offers real-life anecdotes that highlight the stress and confusion unfiltered internet access can cause in children, underlining the necessity of a united front between parents and schools to combat these influences. For those feeling overwhelmed, we introduce "the table," a community platform offering tech support and resources to empower parents. Expect to feel encouraged and motivated as we tackle these challenges together and ensure a safer digital environment for the next generation.Check out these free resources from the content discussed in this episode.What is sextortion?Deepfakes post

Are you curious about how to armor your home against the digital dangers lurking in the Wi-Fi shadows? Join us as we unravel the secrets of safeguarding your family with Chris McKenna from Protect Young Eyes. Chris McKenna, founder of Protect Young Eyes and a repeat guest expert in digital safety, shares his wisdom on the essential layers required for creating a tech-ready home. From building a strong foundation of digital trust through authentic relationships to mastering the intricacies of your home router, we explore actionable steps you can take to develop a robust digital protection strategy for your family. Whether you're a tech novice or a seasoned pro, Chris's insights will empower you to protect your children from potential online harm.Join us as we equip you with faith-centered tools and expert guidance to raise digital-savvy children in a tech-driven world.Here are links to support the education provided in this episode:Instagram PostFacebook Post

Discover the transformative strategies for balancing faith and technology in your home as we chat with Chris McKenna, the visionary behind Protect Young Eyes. Chris shares his compelling journey from a business consultant to a leading advocate for safe technology use among children. Through a fascinating analogy, he compares technology to "junk food for the soul," urging us to evaluate digital spaces through a biblical lens. We delve into the contrasting motives of these spaces, often at odds with Christian values, and underscore the need for vigilance in the digital age.We introduce a comprehensive five-part framework that will empower families to cultivate a tech-ready home with God-honoring principles. From modeling appropriate behavior to managing the ever-present Wi-Fi, we provide practical steps inspired by Deuteronomy 6 to foster genuine human connections. For those feeling overwhelmed, Chris offers actionable advice to start with essential relational and technical steps. Join us for an episode filled with insights and encouragement for navigating technology in faith-focused homes.Here is a link to a free download from Protect Young Eyes to help you create a tech-ready home.

We are excited to announce the debut of the Ben Lippen podcast with our host, Mrs. Erin Kay, High School Counselor.Our new podcast format offers the perfect way to access crucial parent education anytime and anywhere, allowing you to revisit these vital discussions as your parenting journey develops. Whether you're dealing with the immediate demands of parenting or looking to future-proof your approach, these episodes are crafted to provide both fresh perspectives and practical strategies. Mrs. Kay introduces our first guest expert and exciting podcast series in this episode.Don't miss the chance to engage in this enriching dialogue and share it with your community. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share, so you stay updated on all our enlightening conversations with Chris McKenna and other future guests.