The Intentional Family

We all say we have values as a family—but are they actually shaping how we live?In this episode, Andrew and Shannon unpack the often abstract idea of values and bring it into the real, everyday moments of family life. From busy schedules and competing priorities to the quiet drift that happens when we stop paying attention, they explore how values are not just what we say matters—but what we actually build our lives around.Drawing on insights from Patrick Lencioni and his “Frantic Family” framework, they walk through the difference between aspirational values and lived values—and how easy it is for the gap between the two to grow unnoticed.Along the way, they share honest stories from their own family: where their values have shaped their rhythms, where they’ve fallen short, and what it looks like to keep coming back to intentionality.If you’ve ever felt the tension between the family you want to be and the one you’re actually becoming, this episode will help you slow down, reflect, and begin to close that gap.👉 Because if you don’t define your values, your defaults will.📚 Show NotesThe Three Big Questions for a Frantic Family by Patrick LencioniFor Christian families, a book we’re currently reading and loving: Marriage: 6 Gospel Commitments Every Couple Needs to Make by Paul David Tripp

Andrew and Shannon are back, diving into the intentional rhythms they’ve been building into their family—and the “why” behind them. In this episode, they unpack how simple, everyday practices can bring more purpose, connection, and formation into the flow of family life.

Are we raising kids to succeed in school—or to thrive in life?In this episode of The Intentional Family, Andrew and Shannon Haws unpack the hidden tension most parents feel but rarely name: the pull between living intentionally and simply drifting with culture.Through personal stories—including raising four young kids, navigating screen time, resisting helicopter parenting, and rethinking education—they explore what it looks like to raise children who are:ConfidentResilientCritical thinkersReady for the real worldThey also share the pivotal moment that shaped their thinking: encountering high-performing students who lacked essential life skills—and realizing something needed to change.This episode is for parents who are tired of:Constant comparisonOverwhelming adviceThe pressure to “do it all”And are ready to ask a better question:👉 What kind of people are we raising?

The Intentional Family is a podcast about rejecting default settings and building a family on purpose. Hosted by Andrew and Shannon Haws, founders of Acton Academy Victoria, this show follows their journey of creating a home culture shaped by faith, intentionality, and courage. In this first episode, get to know the hosts and hear more about their own journey of intentionality and how it filters into every aspect of their lives!