TALKitUP

Sexuality is one of the most powerful gifts God has given us, yet today’s culture is working overtime to distort it. In the final part of our Raising Faithful Kids series, Barrett Johnson helps parents navigate one of the most critical conversations they need to have with their kids. From discussing God’s design for sex to addressing cultural influences, this episode equips parents with the confidence to guide their children in truth and love.For more in on Barrett, go to his website here: www.infoforfamilies.comTo see some of the books Barrett references, visit the link here.

Smartphones and social media have changed the way kids engage with the world—and with their faith. In Part 3 of our Raising Faithful Kids series, Barrett Johnson breaks down the latest research on how technology is shaping this generation and what parents can do to help their kids use it wisely. From screen addiction to worldview shifts, this episode provides strategies to set healthy boundaries and lead with wisdom in a tech-driven culture.For more in on Barrett, go to his website here: www.infoforfamilies.comTo see some of the books Barrett references, visit the link here.

What if parenting wasn’t just about raising good kids but about discipling future Christ-followers? In Part 2 of our Raising Faithful Kids series, Barrett Johnson unpacks the biblical foundation for parenting as discipleship. Using a powerful house-building metaphor, he lays out five key principles based on Jesus’ own model of investing in His disciples. This episode is packed with practical insights to help parents guide their kids toward a faith that lasts.For more in on Barrett, go to his website here: www.infoforfamilies.comTo see some of the books Barrett references, visit the link here.

Parenting is messy, and no family is perfect—but that’s exactly who God calls us to lead. In this first episode of our Raising Faithful Kids series, Barrett Johnson shares why today’s generation is more spiritually curious than ever, yet increasingly walking away from faith. Through humor, personal stories, and biblical truth, Barrett challenges parents to step into their role as faith leaders in their homes. Tune in for a refreshing reminder that God can work through even the most imperfect families.For more in on Barrett, go to his website here: www.infoforfamilies.comTo see some of the books Barrett references, visit the link here.

In Episode 10 of TalkItUp, host Matt Lake, Executive Director of NextGen, sits down with Dr. Jody Ray, Senior Pastor, for a powerful discussion on the essential role of being the spiritual leader in your home. Titled "Be the Spiritual Leader in Your Home," this episode emphasizes that every parent is leading their family somewhere—so make sure it’s to Jesus.Dr. Ray and Matt explore practical ways to model Christ-like behavior for your family, establish healthy habits that keep Jesus at the center of your daily life, and build a strong foundation of faith. They discuss the importance of creating routines that ground your family in faith, ensuring your children are spiritually prepared to face life’s challenges.Whether you’re a seasoned parent or just starting your journey, this episode offers valuable insights on how to guide your family with purpose, intention, and love.Tune in to Episode 10 of TalkItUp to learn how to be the spiritual leader your family needs, and discover strategies to help your children grow in their faith and resilience.Notes from the episode-"God's Design: The Family Code" eBook: mb.church/AccessGodsDesignEbookJody's sermon from August 18 titled "Brace for Impact!"Family Communion LiturgyContact Matt Lake for any questions or resources! [email protected]

In Episode 9 of TALKitUP, host Matt Lake, Executive Director of NextGen, is joined by esteemed guest Dr. Gary Chapman, author of the bestselling book "The 5 Love Languages," along with Wendy Lake, Matt's wife, for an insightful discussion on "The 5 Love Languages of Children." Together, they explore the principles from Dr. Chapman’s book and how understanding these love languages can transform your relationship with your children.Dr. Chapman shares his expertise on the unique ways children express and receive love, providing practical advice on how parents can identify and cater to their child's specific love language. Wendy and Matt add their personal experiences and reflections, creating a rich dialogue on nurturing emotional and spiritual bonds within the family.Tune in to Episode 9 of TALKitUP for a heartfelt conversation that promises to deepen your understanding of your children and enrich your family life through the power of love languages. This episode is a must-listen for any parent eager to connect more meaningfully with their children.Get the book here: https://www.amazon.com/5-Love-Languages-of-Children-audiobook/dp/B01GQO95PY/ref=sr_1_1?crid=QGZGOAZ1OW8S&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.bdIC7nSVXVXwwF9F4ZinpC-yuOAqUSddQvG1b_XY4uf78u120f6Dhk1aHo5zs82Uzy06rtwVP5P3s-8FE0X8961nomvGG03NS7GbVy6zhadWVtG1rrvdueL-vtqgB03SK3TdKDPxS1xfgEmQQPRPLQfPjen1AjQHS7c6_eAMpQI-q0XtNT1PriZtU9sr3cDAwiwcpYVyMV14qnI22CJbauyDtZSgl7VnbppwNGNyzqg.bJXwyaHz9I0to9yc8zJL1KnADZVRsyoVka5-mECs1IA&dib_tag=se&keywords=5+love+languages+of+children&qid=1719248866&sprefix=5+love+languages+o%2Caps%2C89&sr=8-1See other books written by Dr. Chapman here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Gary+Chapman&i=audible&ref=dp_byline_sr_audible_1

In Episode 8 of TALKItUP, host Matt Lake, Executive Director of NextGen, is joined by Gaylyn Kelly, Lead Pastor of Discipleship, and Kimmi Lochner, Director of Children's Ministries, for an enriching discussion on finding "Peace in Parenting." This episode dives into how Christian parents can achieve a harmonious family life through prayer, unity with their spouses, and setting specific family goals.Gaylyn and Kimmi share their personal experiences and practical insights on how they maintain peace and alignment in their parenting journeys. They discuss the importance of praying with spouses or close friends, ensuring they are on the same page with their partners, and being intentional about family objectives.Join us for a heartfelt conversation that offers encouragement and actionable advice for parents seeking to cultivate a peaceful and purpose-driven family environment. Tune in to Episode 8 of TALKItUP for inspiration and guidance on your parenting journey.Peace Sermon Series: https://mtbethel.org/sermons/?sapurl=LytmajRyL2xiL21zLys2cjc1NG56P2JyYW5kaW5nPXRydWUmZW1iZWQ9dHJ1ZSZyZWNlbnRSb3V0ZT1hcHAud2ViLWFwcC5saWJyYXJ5Lmxpc3QmcmVjZW50Um91dGVTbHVnPSUyQmtqOGQ3NXM=Chill - Addressing Anxiety Field Guide: chill_field_guide_on_anixety_for-web.pdf (thechurchco-production.s3.amazonaws.com)

In this empowering episode of TalkItUp, host Matt Lake, Executive Director of NextGen, engages in a dynamic conversation with former NFL player for the Carolina Panthers, Michael Dean, about the intricate journey of parenting student athletes. Titled "Raising Champions," this episode delves into the essential elements of nurturing young athletes, from instilling foundational habits to setting meaningful goals and fostering open dialogue about purpose and accountability.Michael Dean brings a wealth of experience and insight from his own journey as both an athlete and a parent. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on how to navigate the challenges and triumphs of guiding student athletes toward success, both on and off the field.Join Matt and Michael as they explore the nuances of parenting in the context of athletics, offering practical strategies and heartfelt advice to help families raise champions in every sense of the word.Tune in to Episode 7 of TalkItUp for an inspiring conversation that promises to empower parents and student athletes alike on their journey to greatness.Link to Michael's Football Camp: https://mtbethel.org/event/flag-football-camp/

Join host Matt Lake and Middle School Leader Elley Lee as they sit down with Susan Eaton, Pastor and Author of "You're Gonna Be Okay." Susan shares her personal journey, shaped by her son's struggles with anxiety and depression, and offers practical advice for parents navigating similar challenges. Tune in for an uplifting conversation filled with hope and encouragement for families facing mental health issues. To learn more about Susan, visit her website at www.revsusaneaton.com, listen to her podcast Embodied Holiness, or purchase your copy of her book discussed in this episode at Amazon.com.

Join Garrett Shiplett, Hannah Wildes, and special guest Andrew Reilly (College Pastor of The Refuge at The Chapel, Baton Rouge, LA), as they discuss essential strategies for Christian parents preparing their children for college. From setting expectations to fostering trust in the Lord, they explore practical ways to establish boundaries, offer prayer support, and equip students for the journey ahead. Tune in for invaluable insights on navigating the transition to college with faith, trust, and intentional preparation.

In Episode 4, "Critical Conversations," of the TALKitUP podcast, host Matt Lake engages in a candid and insightful discussion with guest Barrett Johnson, focusing on the importance of equipping parents with the knowledge and confidence needed to navigate the challenges of raising children in today's hypersexualized culture, emphasizing the need for ongoing, informed, and bold conversations beyond the traditional "birds and bees" talk.

In this episode, Matt Lake, the Executive Director of NextGen, Kimmi Lochner, Director of MB Kids, and High School Ministry Leaders Hannah Wildes and Garrett Shiplett dive into the complexities of nurturing faith during teen years. Discover valuable insights to help adolescents navigate periods of doubt and questioning on their spiritual journey.

In our second episode, dive into a dynamic and timely conversation on "Building Tough Kids for a Tough World" with our guests Shelley and Jody Ray. Join host Matt Lake and his wife, Wendy, as they explore strategies and insights to empower children in the face of life's challenges.

Welcome to the first episode of "TALKitUP," the Christian Parenting podcast hosted by Matt Lake. In this episode, we delve into the concept of a family mission statement with Gaylyn Kelly. Discover how creating a family mission statement can anchor your family's values and help you navigate the challenges of raising children in the 21st century. Learn practical steps to foster faith, encourage individuality, and build a strong family unit. Join us on this insightful journey of Christian parenting in the modern world.