They Come With Instructions

Send us Fan MailIn this heartfelt episode, René sits down with Ricky Brown — a young father navigating life, love, and loss while raising his daughter, Leilani.What began as a simple desire to share his voice unfolds into an honest and tender conversation about fatherhood, responsibility, and the deep love he carries for his little girl.Ricky opens up about what he wants most for Leilani — happiness, security, and the unwavering knowledge that she is loved. He also shares the powerful truth he will one day pass on to her about her mother — that she fought to stay, and that her love never left.While every step of his journey is still unfolding, one thing is clear: Leilani has her father’s heart.In this conversation, you’ll hear a young man willing to listen, to grow, and to seek more — from pursuing faith and community to considering the importance of guidance and support along the way.This episode is a reminder that parenting doesn’t come with perfection — but it does come with intention, love, and the opportunity to grow into the role.Because sometimes, the journey of becoming the parent your child needs… happens in real time.Thank you for listening. Let's connect...Contact: [email protected] YouTube: @René Anderson (TCWI) UCUEuuiiEtqWxB3tVejt_SsQWebsite: https://www.ReneAndersonWritings.com (Here you can purchase copies of my books. Thank you)Instagram: Rene.R.AndersonTikTok: @ReneRobinsonAnder

Send us Fan MailSeason 2 of They Come With Instructions kicks off with a lively and heartfelt conversation between René Anderson and her oldest son, Duke.Known for his energy, humor, and honesty, Duke joins the podcast for a conversation full of laughter, reflection, and meaningful dialogue about family relationships and personal growth.Together they explore sensitive but important topics—including father-son dynamics, expectations within families, and the courage it takes to have difficult conversations with the people we love most.This episode reminds us that while hard conversations may feel uncomfortable, the healing, understanding, and love that follow are often worth the effort.René reflects on the blessing of watching her son grow into a thoughtful young man, while Duke shares his perspective on life, identity, and becoming the man he is meant to be.Season 2 begins with laughter, wisdom, and a powerful reminder that healthy family relationships are built through patience, honesty, and grace.Thank you for listening. Let's connect...Contact: [email protected] YouTube: @René Anderson (TCWI) UCUEuuiiEtqWxB3tVejt_SsQWebsite: https://www.ReneAndersonWritings.com (Here you can purchase copies of my books. Thank you)Instagram: Rene.R.AndersonTikTok: @ReneRobinsonAnder

Send us Fan MailIn this deeply moving episode, I sit down with my longtime friend and colleague Tonya Franklin—a woman whose strength has carried her through one of the most unexpected seasons of her life. When tragedy struck her family earlier this year, Tanya found herself navigating grief, new responsibility, and a role she never imagined stepping into.In this heartfelt conversation, Tanya shares how she’s supporting little Leilani, managing her own emotions, and learning to balance honesty, compassion, and resilience day by day. Her story is tender, raw, and full of the quiet strength that so many women carry without applause.Join us for a powerful close to Season 1 as we talk about love, loss, unexpected assignments, and the grace to keep going even when life takes a turn you never planned for.Thank you for listening. Let's connect...Contact: [email protected] YouTube: @René Anderson (TCWI) UCUEuuiiEtqWxB3tVejt_SsQWebsite: https://www.ReneAndersonWritings.com (Here you can purchase copies of my books. Thank you)Instagram: Rene.R.AndersonTikTok: @ReneRobinsonAnder

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful and soul-stirring episode, I sit down with Carl Sims—a devoted family man, minister of the gospel, and living testimony of God’s relentless faithfulness. Carl was born into a Muslim family, placed into foster care at an early age, and later adopted into a Christian home. It was there that his understanding of God began… and his personal relationship with Jesus Christ would unfold, through a journey marked by searching, understanding, and surrender.Carl opens his heart about the struggles many never see—the quiet battles with identity, the lingering question of why he couldn’t have a “normal” childhood with both biological parents, and the deep longing for acceptance. He speaks candidly about the areas where the enemy still attempts to torment his mind, and the daily decision to yield those areas to God.Yet woven through every chapter of Carl’s life is a single, undeniable truth: God was there all along.Guiding.Covering.Calling him into purpose.Carl’s story is dynamic, inspiring, and full of hope—a reminder that no matter your beginnings, God can rewrite your entire story and change your name. His life invites every listener to consider: What might happen if you give the God of the Bible a try?Tune in to this unforgettable conversation and be encouraged, strengthened, and reminded of the redemptive power of God’s love.🎧 Listen now and share with someone who needs hope today.They Come With Instructions (Book) - https://www.ReneAndersonWritings.comThank you for listening. Let's connect...Contact: [email protected] YouTube: @René Anderson (TCWI) UCUEuuiiEtqWxB3tVejt_SsQWebsite: https://www.ReneAndersonWritings.com (Here you can purchase copies of my books. Thank you)Instagram: Rene.R.AndersonTikTok: @ReneRobinsonAnder

Send us Fan MailIn this inspiring episode of They Come With Instructions, I had the delightful opportunity to sit down with the remarkable Mother Mabel Bryant, a woman whose life is a beautiful testament to faith, perseverance, and the unending journey of motherhood.Mo. Bryant shares how she once believed marriage and motherhood might never be part of her story — until, at age 40, God surprised her with both. She became a wife and stepmother to four children, including three teenage girls, and embraced the challenge with grace and structure. Through prayer, and a home centered in love and accountability, she cultivated an atmosphere where everyone contributed — and where the dinner table became a place for connection and Bible study.Her story doesn’t end there. Long before marriage, Mo. Bryant had already begun the process of adoption as a single career woman — a glimpse into the depth of her heart and calling to nurture. Now a great-grandmother, Mo. Bryant continues to “parent” with wisdom and strength, reminding us that the call to nurture never ends. There's so much more to her journey - her faith in God’s timing, her resilience, her deep love for her late husband, and her devotion to studying and teaching God's Word will leave you inspired and uplifted. If you’ve ever questioned whether your season has passed or wondered how to lead a blended family with grace, this episode will fill you with hope and renewed purpose.🎧 Listen, learn, and be encouraged by the wisdom of a seasoned mother. Thank you for listening. Let's connect...Contact: [email protected] YouTube: @René Anderson (TCWI) UCUEuuiiEtqWxB3tVejt_SsQWebsite: https://www.ReneAndersonWritings.com (Here you can purchase copies of my books. Thank you)Instagram: Rene.R.AndersonTikTok: @ReneRobinsonAnder

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful episode of They Come With Instructions, René Anderson sits down with Jasmine Gates, who courageously shares her journey of faith, identity, and redemption. Raised in the church, Jasmine found herself struggling with same-sex attraction and later living a lesbian lifestyle—until God drew her heart back to Him.Through her transparent testimony, Jasmine opens up about her internal battles, her return to the foundation of her upbringing, and the power of God’s love to restore even the most broken places.This episode reminds parents that when you’ve trained your children in a God-fearing home, you can trust that the seeds you planted will take root in God’s timing. You’ll also be encouraged to create safe spaces where your children can speak up if they’ve been hurt or violated, and to stand firm in faith, prayer, and fasting—knowing there is no sin too deep that the blood of Jesus cannot cover, and no life too far gone that He cannot redeem.💬 Key Themes:The redeeming power of God’s love and graceHope for parents whose children have drifted from their faithHealing from sexual trauma and the importance of safe spacesSpiritual weapons for victorious living: fasting, prayer, and perseveranceThank you for listening. Let's connect...Contact: [email protected] YouTube: @René Anderson (TCWI) UCUEuuiiEtqWxB3tVejt_SsQWebsite: https://www.ReneAndersonWritings.com (Here you can purchase copies of my books. Thank you)Instagram: Rene.R.AndersonTikTok: @ReneRobinsonAnder

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of They Come With Instructions, I reconnect with Antoinette Bingham, who I first met years ago when she was my son’s school bus driver. What began as a protective mom moment turned into a lesson in truth and trust after I discovered my son hadn’t been fully honest about the situation that got him suspended.From those early memories, our conversation shifts to one of the most difficult topics we’ve faced as mothers—watching our grown sons battle mental illness. Neither of our children were born with these challenges, but in young adulthood, we saw the impact of marijuana use and the effects of THC on their mental health. With honesty and grace, Antoinette shares the years she has spent navigating this painful journey, while I open up in a way I never have before about my own son.This dialogue is just the beginning of a much-needed conversation that can’t be covered in one sitting but it brought comfort to share with someone who truly understands. In sharing our stories, we found strength, understanding, and hope. We close the episode with a prayer for every parent walking this burdensome road, believing that even in the heaviest places, God provides comfort and grace. Thank you for listening. Let's connect...Contact: [email protected] YouTube: @René Anderson (TCWI) UCUEuuiiEtqWxB3tVejt_SsQWebsite: https://www.ReneAndersonWritings.com (Here you can purchase copies of my books. Thank you)Instagram: Rene.R.AndersonTikTok: @ReneRobinsonAnder

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of They Come With Instructions, I sit down with one of my dearest childhood friends and lifelong confidants, Schinaeh Turner. Together, we share laughter and memories, but the heart of our conversation is centered on one powerful word—Reflection.As a young mother, Schinaeh made decisions she firmly stood by at the time, only to later recognize the lasting impact those choices had on her four sons. Having walked the journey of single motherhood for many years, and now over two decades of marriage to a husband who also had four children, she opens up about the joys and challenges of blending two large families into one.Her wisdom, honesty, and grace shine through as she shares what she’s learned along the way—offering valuable insight for anyone willing to listen. This episode invites us all to pause, reflect, and consider the ripple effects of our own life choices.Thank you for listening. Let's connect...Contact: [email protected] YouTube: @René Anderson (TCWI) UCUEuuiiEtqWxB3tVejt_SsQWebsite: https://www.ReneAndersonWritings.com (Here you can purchase copies of my books. Thank you)Instagram: Rene.R.AndersonTikTok: @ReneRobinsonAnder

Send us Fan MailIn Part 2 of my conversation with Paula Adams, we go deeper into her story—sharing personal reflections on family, motherhood, and the powerful influence of her own mother. Paula opens up about the tension of feeling both grateful for and resentful of her mom’s role in helping raise her daughters, and how that shaped their family dynamic.Beyond family, Paula also shares professional wisdom drawn from her 34+ years as a highly successful executive in the public sector. She reveals valuable lessons learned along the way, the things she might do differently today, and why she remains passionate about helping others succeed.This episode is filled with laughter, honesty, and inspiration. Paula’s transparency about balancing motherhood, career, and personal growth will leave you both encouraged and challenged.Thank you for listening. Let's connect...Contact: [email protected] YouTube: @René Anderson (TCWI) UCUEuuiiEtqWxB3tVejt_SsQWebsite: https://www.ReneAndersonWritings.com (Here you can purchase copies of my books. Thank you)Instagram: Rene.R.AndersonTikTok: @ReneRobinsonAnder

Send us Fan MailIn this heartfelt episode of They Come With Instructions, I sit down with one of my favorite people and longtime mentor, Paula Adams—a successful career woman who not only inspired me to pursue my professional goals, but actively helped me achieve them.Paula shares openly about her journey to becoming a single mother of two daughters, the courage it took to go against her parents’ advice, and the strength she found in asking for help when she needed it most. She discusses how therapy, Christian counseling, and other resources became key tools in overcoming depression and finding her path to healing and success.As a mom of four boys, I was fascinated to hear Paula’s insights on the unique joys and challenges of raising girls. Her wisdom, resilience, and authenticity will deeply resonate with single parents and anyone navigating life’s unexpected turns.This is just Part 1 of our conversation—an episode that will inspire, uplift, and keep you eager for more.Thank you for listening. Let's connect...Contact: [email protected] YouTube: @René Anderson (TCWI) UCUEuuiiEtqWxB3tVejt_SsQWebsite: https://www.ReneAndersonWritings.com (Here you can purchase copies of my books. Thank you)Instagram: Rene.R.AndersonTikTok: @ReneRobinsonAnder

Send us Fan MailIn this heartfelt and honest episode of They Come With Instructions, we explore the sensitive topic of absent parents—and the many reasons why some parents are not present in a child’s life. Whether due to divorce, military deployment, incarceration, or even the difficult aftermath of sexual assault, the absence of a parent leaves deep questions that deserve compassionate and truthful answers.René Anderson offers biblical encouragement for parents navigating this space, reminding us that God is the giver of life—nothing takes Him by surprise, and His plans are never without purpose. Listeners are urged to be sensitively honest with their children, sharing age-appropriate truths rather than hiding behind well-meaning lies that only lead to deeper pain and confusion.This episode also offers a strong call to avoid judgment. Each family’s story is unique, and we must show grace rather than assumptions—especially when we haven’t walked in their shoes. Even similar stories unfold differently from household to household and child to child.Finally, be encouraged: you are not alone. God is near to the brokenhearted, and He equips those carrying the weight of parenthood alone. His strength, provision, and peace are real and available—so keep casting your cares on Him.Thank you for listening. Let's connect...Contact: [email protected] YouTube: @René Anderson (TCWI) UCUEuuiiEtqWxB3tVejt_SsQWebsite: https://www.ReneAndersonWritings.com (Here you can purchase copies of my books. Thank you)Instagram: Rene.R.AndersonTikTok: @ReneRobinsonAnder

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we make it clear: this is not about endorsing Planned Parenthood—it’s quite the opposite. We believe life begins with God, and every child is a gift, never a surprise to Him, even if unexpected by us.“Planning for Parenthood” challenges young adults to think beyond baby names and gender reveals and instead consider the deeper responsibility of raising a child. Our children come to us as blank slates—needing instruction on everything: how to walk, talk, play kindly, and even how to understand the word “no.” Because a child who never hears “no” becomes a person who can’t handle it—even decades later.Tune in as we explore the biblical and practical importance of preparing for parenthood with purpose. Before the celebrations, take a moment to ask yourself: What values do I want to pass on? What kind of parent do I want to be? Let’s talk about the real work—and blessing—of raising the next generation.Thank you for listening. Let's connect...Contact: [email protected] YouTube: @René Anderson (TCWI) UCUEuuiiEtqWxB3tVejt_SsQWebsite: https://www.ReneAndersonWritings.com (Here you can purchase copies of my books. Thank you)Instagram: Rene.R.AndersonTikTok: @ReneRobinsonAnder

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of They Come With Instructions, we explore the powerful truth that children - starting as early as infancy - learn more from what they observe than what they're told. Our actions, attitudes, and habits become the blueprint our children follow. As the Bible reminds us, we are to teach by precept and example. This episode encourages parents to reflect the consistency between what we say and how we live. Because more than our words, our lives are the lessons our children carry forward.Thank you for listening. Let's connect...Contact: [email protected] YouTube: @René Anderson (TCWI) UCUEuuiiEtqWxB3tVejt_SsQWebsite: https://www.ReneAndersonWritings.com (Here you can purchase copies of my books. Thank you)Instagram: Rene.R.AndersonTikTok: @ReneRobinsonAnder

Send us Fan MailIn Part 2 of my candid conversation with my eldest son, Duke, we go even deeper. His thoughtful pauses, raw honesty, and deep questions bring powerful insight to the realities of parenting—especially when things don’t go as planned.Duke courageously asks a question that many parents quietly wrestle with: What do you do when you raise your children according to God’s Word, but they don’t live up to those expectations? We explore that question and more, with transparency, grace, and even some well-timed humor.This episode is for every parent who has planted seeds in faith and may be still waiting for the harvest. It’s a reminder that parenting God’s way is not about perfection—it’s about obedience, love, and trusting that His Word never fails.You’ll laugh, reflect, and walk away uplifted and encouraged to stay the course—because His way is still the right way.Thank you for listening. Let's connect...Contact: [email protected] YouTube: @René Anderson (TCWI) UCUEuuiiEtqWxB3tVejt_SsQWebsite: https://www.ReneAndersonWritings.com (Here you can purchase copies of my books. Thank you)Instagram: Rene.R.AndersonTikTok: @ReneRobinsonAnder

Send us Fan MailConversations with the Poster Child – An Interview with My Son, DukeIn this heartfelt and candid episode, I sit down with my oldest son, Duke—the one I proudly call the "poster child" for They Come with Instructions. Though his journey hasn’t been without challenges and mistakes, Duke’s story is a powerful testament to resilience, redemption, and the fruit of biblical parenting.With thoughtful pauses, brutal honesty, and a witty sense of humor, Duke shares his experiences with refreshing transparency. His life reflects the strength and dignity that can emerge when biblical principles are planted early and nurtured with love, discipline, and grace. Even in the face of setbacks, the seeds of godly instruction took root—and now they bear witness to the truth that parenting God’s way works.This episode will remind and encourage parents that God's Word never returns void. It's a conversation every family should hear—filled with truth, hope, and a few good laughs along the way.Thank you for listening. Let's connect...Contact: [email protected] YouTube: @René Anderson (TCWI) UCUEuuiiEtqWxB3tVejt_SsQWebsite: https://www.ReneAndersonWritings.com (Here you can purchase copies of my books. Thank you)Instagram: Rene.R.AndersonTikTok: @ReneRobinsonAnder

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of They Come With Instructions, we dive into the timeless value of using the Bible as your parenting guide. As our Creator, God knows us—and our children—better than anyone. Parenting His way lifts the pressure of feeling like we must have all the answers. Instead, we’re invited to seek wisdom from the One who knows all.I share personal stories of how God's Word has given me the words to speak and the actions to take—sometimes far beyond what I could have come up with on my own. The Bible is full of practical truths and guiding principles that equip parents to lead with love, wisdom, and confidence.You'll be encouraged to speak life over your children—even in moments of correction—and reminded that we can’t pour out what we haven’t poured in. That’s why I encourage every parent to connect with a Bible-based church, read the Word, or simply listen to it daily. When you fill yourself with the Word, it will overflow into your parenting.Tune in and be inspired to parent with purpose, with peace, and with God at the center.Thank you for listening. Let's connect...Contact: [email protected] YouTube: @René Anderson (TCWI) UCUEuuiiEtqWxB3tVejt_SsQWebsite: https://www.ReneAndersonWritings.com (Here you can purchase copies of my books. Thank you)Instagram: Rene.R.AndersonTikTok: @ReneRobinsonAnder

Send us Fan MailIn this special episode of They Come With Instructions, I open up and share my personal journey — the story behind the voice. I talk about the deep challenges I faced when life didn’t go as planned: the weight of single-handedly raising four sons, and the painful belief that my dreams and desires were lost along the way.But through it all, I discovered that when you put God first and choose to do life His way, the blessings follow. What once felt like a burden and sacrifice, has now become my greatest joy and peace I could have ever imagined. God used every pain to reveal Himself in my life. God brought me through to share my story with the next person, single parent, YOU - to make it through. This is my testimony, and I hope it encourages you to trust that God’s plan is always worth it. Tune in and get to know the heart behind They Come With Instructions.Thank you for listening. Let's connect...Contact: [email protected] YouTube: @René Anderson (TCWI) UCUEuuiiEtqWxB3tVejt_SsQWebsite: https://www.ReneAndersonWritings.com (Here you can purchase copies of my books. Thank you)Instagram: Rene.R.AndersonTikTok: @ReneRobinsonAnder

Send us Fan MailIn this heartfelt episode of They Come With Instructions, I share my personal journey as a single mother raising four sons after my divorce. With raw honesty, I discuss the emotional and practical challenges I faced, from navigating my own healing process to supporting my children through their own trauma. As a mother, I was determined not to become a bitter or angry woman, and in this episode, I encourage others to do the work of self-growth and healing to move forward into the next chapter of their lives.Raising kids after divorce comes with its share of trials. While I worked hard to protect my sons from the fallout of the divorce, I’ve come to realize that they, too, were affected by the changes in ways I hadn’t fully anticipated. Emotional health, both for us as parents and our children, is key to overcoming the challenges that come with life transitions like divorce. Looking back, I wish there had been more practical resources to guide me, but now, through this podcast, I aim to provide that much-needed support for those navigating similar paths. Join me as I share the lessons I’ve learned, the importance of relying on God, and how emotional resilience can make a difference in raising healthy, strong kids through difficult times.This episode is for anyone walking the road of single parenting, looking for guidance, encouragement, and real talk about the steps necessary to recover and have a healthy family-life after divorce.Thank you for listening. Let's connect...Contact: [email protected] YouTube: @René Anderson (TCWI) UCUEuuiiEtqWxB3tVejt_SsQWebsite: https://www.ReneAndersonWritings.com (Here you can purchase copies of my books. Thank you)Instagram: Rene.R.AndersonTikTok: @ReneRobinsonAnder

Send us Fan MailIn this heartfelt episode of They Come with Instructions, I sit down with a very special guest - my mother, Ruby Robinson.As the second youngest of 18 children, she grew up in a small town in Virginia before making a bold move to the big city of Los Angeles, where she met the love of her life-my father-and built a family of her own.A devoted woman of faith, a dedicated Bible teacher, and a pillar in her church community, my mother's story is one of resilience, love, and unwavering faith. She shares memories of her upbringing and the values that shaped her journey. Her wisdom and warmth will inspire you to reflect on your own family roots, the power of faith, and the legacies we carry forward.Join us for an intimate and uplifting conversation that will make you laugh, reflect, and perhaps even reminisce about your own upbringing. Don't forget to share this episode with loved ones-it's a story worth passing down.Thank you for listening. Let's connect...Contact: [email protected] YouTube: @René Anderson (TCWI) UCUEuuiiEtqWxB3tVejt_SsQWebsite: https://www.ReneAndersonWritings.com (Here you can purchase copies of my books. Thank you)Instagram: Rene.R.AndersonTikTok: @ReneRobinsonAnder