The Thriving Family

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast.Today’s episode is a powerful testimonial of healing through rest and boundaries. When Dave went to Kerith Ministry Leaders Retreats with his wife, Staci, he thought everything was fine. As a rural pastor and father of five, he knew he was tired but believed he just needed a breather. Once at the retreat centre, though, Dave realized how truly exhausted he was. The name “Kerith” comes from First Kings 17 when the Lord sent Elijah to the Kerith Ravine after he made a prophetic declaration to the kingdom of Ahab. God knew Elijah’s calling would consume his energy and leave him weary, so he provided him times of rest, solitude, and renewal. Like its biblical namesake, Focus on the Family Canada's Kerith Retreats values this stillness and provides care to those who are weary. These retreats are offered at our Canadian retreat centres in Alberta, Manitoba, and Ontario.Now, let’s hear from Dave.Episode notes:Kerith Retreats Ministry Retreatswww.kerithretreats.caStress and Burnout digital booklethttps://info.focusonthefamily.ca/stressWork-Life Balance digital booklethttps://info.focusonthefamily.ca/work-life-balance-free-pdfUnderstanding Healthy Boundaries digital booklethttps://info.focusonthefamily.ca/understanding-healthy-boundaries-pdfFree, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.© 2023 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved.

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast.Today it’s my great pleasure to introduce Dave Phillips. Dave is an experienced executive mentor and speaker for high performance CEOs and business leaders across North America. His work covers topics ranging from the boardroom to the bedroom in some of the most challenging and even troubling areas of the leader’s life. Dave not only supports CEOs and business leaders, but also their teams to make a greater impact and provide long-term solutions. Those may sound like lofty topics, but in this conversation, Dave shares freely from our hearts about matters of character, integrity, humility, and purpose.Episode notes:Free, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.Support the podcasthttps://www.focusonthefamily.ca/podcastgiving© 2026 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved. 

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast.For today’s episode, we’re talking about emotional intelligence. God created us with the capacity to feel emotions, but as humans living in a broken world, navigating these emotions can be a challenge. The benefits of becoming emotionally intelligent go beyond your own mental and emotional health – this skill will also make all the difference in your marriage.Episode notes:Journey to Us marriage conferences and retreatshttps://journeytous.ca/Navigating Conflict in Marriage digital booklethttps://info.focusonthefamily.ca/navigating-conflict-in-marriageFree, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.Support the podcast: https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/podcastgiving© 2020 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved. 

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast.Today’s episode features a truly hope-filled message. Christin Rosa graduated with a bachelor of education degree from the University of Alberta and has taught everything from English at a university in China to kindergarten to employability skills training for immigrant women. In 2013 she gave birth to her son Thomas and stayed home with her kids until returning to work in 2024. It was her prenatal diagnosis in 2016 while pregnant with boy and girl twins that changed everything. It lit a fire in her to do something, anything, to shed light on the injustice of abortion. Today Christin is the author of Saving Nate: Choosing Life After a Devastating Prenatal Diagnosis, and is a prayer leader and devotional writer for a 24-7 prayer room for life in Canada. She loves to spend time in God’s presence meditating on his Word and to share his soul-reviving truth with others through her writing and Bible study leadership. Her website is ChristinRosa.com. Her book, Saving Nate, was published by Focus on the Family, and it was such an honour to sit down and hear more of Christin’s story.Today’s interview is facilitated by Len DenBraber, chief operating office at Focus on the Family Canada.This episode includes personal reflections on pregnancy loss and abortion. Listener discretion advised. This podcast is one family’s story and therefore cannot reflect the various experiences of all families. Many parents in similar situations have not experienced miraculous healing where there was a prenatal diagnosis, despite their prayers and trust in God. If a child did not survive before or after childbirth, or they were born with a disability, there is long-term challenge, pain, and grief. While we cannot understand why this happens, we do know God is near to the broken-hearted (Psalm 34:18) and comforts those who mourn (Matthew 5:4). If a woman has chosen abortion, there can also be immense pain, grief, and shame. God in his great mercy offers love, forgiveness, and hope (1 John 1:9).Episode notes:Saving Nate: Choosing Life after a Devastating Prenatal Diagnosishttps://shop.focusonthefamily.ca/Saving-NateFree, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.Support the podcast: https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/podcastgiving© 2026 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved. 

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast.In today’s episode, we have the joy of introducing Arlene Pellicane. Arlene is a speaker, host of the Happy Home podcast, and author of several books including Parents Rising, Making Marriage Easier and Screen Kids. Arlene has been featured on the Today Show, Fox & Friends, the Wall Street Journal, FamilyLife Today, and Focus on the Family and is the spokesperson for National Marriage Week. Arlene and her husband, James, have three children and live in San Diego. They have raised their kids without social media, video games, and smartphones and inspire others to scroll less and live more. To learn more, visit her website at ArlenePellicane.com. This was dynamic conversation about parenting, navigating screen time, and what it was like collaborating with Gary Chapman!Episode notes:Happy Home Podcasthttps://arlenepellicane.com/podcastsFree, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.Support the podcast: https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/podcastgiving© 2026 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved. 

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast.For today’s episode, we’re talking about how to help boost your child’s academic potential. We recognize that every child learns differently, and many children require tailored support to thrive in the classroom. But regardless of where and how they learn, a child’s parents will always be their biggest academic supporter. Here are some ways to increase your child’s learning potential!Episode notes:The Potential of Children video serieshttps://info.focusonthefamily.ca/potential-of-childrenFree, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.Support the podcast: https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/podcastgiving© 2020 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved. 

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast.For today’s episode, you’ll hear from Matt Menzel. Matt is the lead pastor of Centre Church in downtown Vancouver. He and his wife, Melissa, are completely caught up in a vision for the renewal of Jesus’ church in their city. Matt’s greatest joy is to experience the presence of Jesus in daily life and to see Christ do the things that only he can do. Matt truly is making this happen, and you’ll understand how when you hear this beautiful and inspiring conversation.Episode notes:Free, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.Support the podcasthttps://www.focusonthefamily.ca/podcastgiving© 2026 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved. 

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast.For today’s episode, we have the joy of introducing Dede Nicholson, a team member at Focus on the Family Canada. Dede shares her journey of rediscovering the importance of the Sabbath and how she truly experienced God’s rest as a busy mother.Episode notes:Work-Life Balance digital booklethttps://info.focusonthefamily.ca/work-life-balance-free-pdfDrawing Closer to God Through Spiritual Disciplines video serieshttps://info.focusonthefamily.ca/spiritual-disciplinesKerith Retreatshttps://kerithretreats.ca/Free, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.Support the podcast: https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/podcastgiving© 2020 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved. 

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast.Today, you’re in for an inspiring conversation with Daniel Im. Daniel is a pastor, Bible teacher, writer, and podcast host with a passion for the local church. He serves as the lead pastor of Beulah Alliance Church and is the author of several books, including his latest, The Discipleship Opportunity: Leading a Great-Commission Church in a Post-Everything World. He is currently undertaking a Doctorate of Ministry in Spiritual Formation and Relational Neuroscience. Daniel and his wife, Christina, lives in Edmonton, AB, and their three children.Episode notes:Free, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.Support the podcasthttps://www.focusonthefamily.ca/podcastgiving© 2026 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved. 

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast.Today’s episode features Mike and Kim Anderson. Mike and Kim jumped into blended family life back in 2001 after dating for a short time. They knew roadblocks would pop up along the journey, but they didn’t anticipate how challenging it would be. They began supporting blended family couples shortly after their wedding and have had the privilege of supporting hundreds of couples for more than two decades. Mike and Kim are trained by Ron Deal, one of the most widely read and viewed experts on blended families in the United States. Through their podcast, Blended Family Breakthrough, and their work as life coaches, they empower and equip blended families on both sides of the border.Today’s conversation is facilitated by Len DenBraber, chief operating officer at Focus on the Family Canada.Episode notes:Blended Family Breakthroughhttps://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.comBlended family resourceshttps://focusonthefamily.ca/blendedfamiliesParenting in a Blended Family video serieshttps://info.focusonthefamily.ca/parenting-in-a-blended-familyHelping Blended Families Thrive digital booklethttps://info.focusonthefamily.ca/helping-blended-families-thriveFree, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.Support the podcast: https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/podcastgiving© 2026 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved.

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast.Today’s episode features Jenni Colwell. Jenni serves as the Director of Children and Family Ministries for the British Columbia and Yukon District of the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada. She is passionate about nurturing the spiritual formation of children and equipping the pastors and leaders who serve them. Jenni and her husband, Mark, have been married for 31 years and are blessed with four adult children, two sons-in-law, and two grandchildren.Episode notes:Free, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.Support the podcast: https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/podcastgiving© 2026 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved.

Today’s episode is all about building a stronger team, and in this case, that team is your marriage. If team-building activities work in uniting coworkers and near strangers, how much more will it do for you and your spouse?Episode notes:Helping Couples Thrive digital booklethttps://info.focusonthefamily.ca/helping-couples-thrive100+ great date ideashttps://www.focusonthefamily.ca/content/100-great-date-ideasFree, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.Support the podcast: https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/podcastgiving© 2020 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved. 

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast.For today’s episode, it’s our pleasure to introduce Jason Weening. Jason and his wife, Alli, have been married for 20 years and are blessed with 10 children. He speaks to dads and moms encouraging them to be intentional in their most important organization – their family! He is the author of two books: a fiction adventure book for kids, Danger in the Jungle, and a humorous non-fiction book, Yes, Dear...I’m Watching Them: Stories of Injury and Adventure from the Frontlines of Dadhood. He co-hosts the Helping Men Thrive podcast and supervises the care of hens, ducks, cows, and vegetables on their small hobby farm in southern Saskatchewan. Find him at HeyDads.ca.Episode notes:Free, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.HeyDads.caSupport the podcast: https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/podcastgiving© 2026 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved. 

Welcome back to The Thriving Family, a podcast from Focus on the Family Canada. If you’re new to the show, this is the place where family, faith, and culture intersect. Our first season explored communication and conflict in relationships. For season two, we looked at how our Heavenly Father heals our scars. Now, for season three, we are talking about God’s full life for you. We sat down with ministry leaders, coaches, entrepreneurs and content creators from across Canada, and I’m so excited for you to hear these conversations.

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast.For today’s episode, we have the honour of introducing a powerful testimonial of healing scars that were left by dysfunctional family. The family we grew up in – our family of origin – has an undeniable impact on our lives. It can affect how we see ourselves, how we see the world, how we interact with others, and our expectations of marriage and parenting. Tina’s story is told with brutal honesty, and we are grateful for her courage in sharing with us. I hope you are encouraged by Tina’s testimony of finding healing and hope.Please note that this testimonial mentions abuse and is not suitable for children.Episode notes:Understanding Your Family of Origin digital booklethttps://www.focusonthefamily.ca/content/free-booklet-download-understanding-your-family-of-originFree, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.Support the podcast: https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/podcastgiving© 2025 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved. 

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast.For today’s episode, we are talking about inevitable stress and necessary self-care following the birth of a first child, but not from the perspective you might expect. When it comes to self-care, new dads may struggle to find information that applies to them. Sadly, this make them feel unprepared and alone if they’re struggling. You’ll hear from several dads about their experiences and discover practical steps for self-care as a new father.Just a note: Referrals to websites not produced by Focus on the Family Canada do not necessarily constitute blanket endorsement of the sites' content.Episode notes:Content series for new parentshttps://www.focusonthefamily.ca/content/new-parentsFree, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.Support the podcast: https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/podcastgiving© 2016 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved.

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast.In today’s episode, we are looking at what it means to be in a relationship with a highly sensitive person. By first understanding the characteristics and needs of a highly sensitive person, you can then identify how that’s affecting your relationship – especially when it comes to navigating conflict – so you can create a safe, thriving marriage.Please note that reference to the individuals and organizations quoted does not constitute a blanket endorsement of either the individuals’ external work or their respective organizations. And all names have been changed to protect their privacy.Episode notes:Navigating Conflict in Marriage digital booklethttps://info.focusonthefamily.ca/navigating-conflict-in-marriageHelping Couples Thrive digital booklethttps://info.focusonthefamily.ca/helping-couples-thriveFocus Marriage Assessment Toolhttps://info.focusonthefamily.ca/marriage-assessmentFree, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.Support the podcast: https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/podcastgiving© 2018 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved. 

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast.Today it’s our great pleasure to introduce author and speaker Shirley Thiessen. Most people feel uncertain how to express empathy and love to those who are grieving. Shirley was one of those people. Then abruptly, grief ambushed Shirley’s family. Twelve days after her son’s wedding, Shirley was thrown into the unimaginable task of planning his funeral. The trauma of losing her child threatened to destroy her. Hope and resiliency gradually emerged with the caring support of courageous, compassionate friends. They listened, acknowledged her loss, prayed and patiently remained present.Inspired by these “Hope Heroes,” Shirley wrote the book, The Little Black Funeral Dress: Five Things I Wish I Had Known About Grief to pay it forward. Identifying the need for more grief education particularly in faith communities, Shirley became founder of Corner Bend Grief Ministries in 2019. Her passion is to inspire others to be Hope Heroes so that every grieving soul will experience God’s love and find courage to recycle their pain for his glory.  This conversation with Shirley Thiessen is facilitated by Len DenBraber, chief operating officer at Focus on the Family Canada.Episode notes:The Little Black Funeral Dress by Shirley Thiessenhttps://shop.focusonthefamily.ca/The-Little-Black-Funeral-DressWalking Through Grief PDF booklethttps://info.focusonthefamily.ca/griefFree, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.Support the podcast: https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/podcastgiving© 2025 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved. 

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast.In today’s episode, we are diving into the realm of anxiety. For those who become overwhelmed by their anxious thoughts, it can be difficult to find a way out of that heightened state on our own. Thankfully, God provides us with helpful tools and resources – which we explore in this episode.Episode notes:Understanding Anxiety video serieshttps://info.focusonthefamily.ca/understanding-anxietyUnderstanding and Navigating Anxiety PDF booklethttps://info.focusonthefamily.ca/anxietyFree, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.Support the podcast: https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/podcastgiving© 2013 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved. 

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast.Today’s episode tackles a very sensitive and difficult subject: sex trafficking. Sex trafficking is on the rise in Canada. This episode will educate you about how traffickers operate and what to be aware of as a parent. Note that this episode mentions sexual assault and is not suitable for children. We recommend parents listen to this episode to discern if it’s right to let their teenagers hear. An important note before we begin: If you are concerned that your child could be the victim of sex trafficking or is being groomed for sex trafficking you must intervene, but you should do so carefully to ensure you don’t put your child’s safety at risk. The Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline can be reached at 1.833.900.1010 and they can advise you on how best to proceed. Most importantly, any disclosure of sexual abuse made by a minor must also be reported to the police or a child welfare agency right away.Episode notes:Lynda Harlos’ book Walk a Mile: A Mother’s Journey into Her Daughter’s Secret Life has not been reviewed for endorsement by Focus on the Family Canada. The occasional use of strong language in Lynda’s book will concern some readers. You can also watch Lynda’s story on YouTube.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cEDT-NpTyW8Focus on the Family Canada series on protecting children from sexual abusehttps://www.focusonthefamily.ca/content/protecting-children-from-sexual-abuseFree, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.Support the podcast: https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/podcastgiving© 2024 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved.

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast.Today, you’re in for an inspiring conversation with Carissa Youssef, a leader with a servant’s heart who is passionate about God’s redemptive work. Born in Chicago, Carissa lived throughout the Midwest until her family settled in Seattle in 1993. After graduating from high school, Carissa moved to British Columbia to attend university where she earned her BA in Communications and later her MBA. Carissa spent nearly 15 years of dedicated work in the fight against extreme poverty, and she now serves as the executive director of One Day’s Wages, where she continues to advocate for the most vulnerable. Carissa and her husband, Bob, live in Abbotsford, BC, with their two daughters.This conversation with Carissa Youssef is facilitated by Kara Pippy, chief marketing officer at Focus on the Family Canada.Episode notes:Free, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.Support the podcast: https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/podcastgiving© 2025 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved. 

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast.In today’s episode, we are tackling a deeply personal issue – emotional abuse in marriage. Words don’t leave physical marks, but they bruise the spirit. This episode is full of practical advice and insights from marriage experts to help work through this daunting topic. While we recognize that men are also victims of emotional abuse, we hear from women more often which is why that dynamic is described this episode. That being said, these principles apply whether it's the wife or husband who is the victim of emotional abuse.Please note that reference to the individuals and organizations quoted does not constitute a blanket endorsement of either the individuals’ external work or their respective organizations.Episode notes:Read a related article here: “Words that bruise: Are you emotionally abusive?”https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/content/words-that-bruise-are-you-emotionally-abusiveThe Emotionally Destructive Relationship by Leslie Vernickhttps://shop.focusonthefamily.ca/The-Emotionally-Destructive-RelationshipUnderstanding Abuse digital booklethttps://info.focusonthefamily.ca/understanding-abuseUnpacking Biblical Separation and Divorce video serieshttps://info.focusonthefamily.ca/unpacking-biblical-separation-and-divorceUnderstanding Abuse in Marriage video serieshttps://info.focusonthefamily.ca/understanding-abuse-in-marriageFree, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.© 2013 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved. 

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast.Today’s episode features Bryan and Bonnie Pue, founders of The Union Movement. As a young man, Bryan was into the party scene, depressed, angry and addicted to pornography. Meanwhile, Bonnie was the homeschooled church teen girl whose naivety was shattered when a trusted church leader confessed his sexual sin to his congregation. As they found restoration and freedom, their passion grew to help others find healing and to empower churches to do the same. They founded The Union Movement to help people find wholeness by presenting a gospel-centred, holistic approach to the topics of identity, sexuality, and relationships. They develop resources, speak at events, and support local churches and leaders who desire to cultivate healthy cultures. Bonnie and Bryan have been married since 2007, and are now mom and dad to six fantastic sons.This conversation with Bryan and Bonnie is facilitated by Len DenBraber, chief operating officer at Focus on the Family Canada.Episode notes:In God’s Image video serieshttps://www.focusonthefamily.ca/IngodsimageFree, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.Support the podcast: https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/podcastgiving© 2025 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved. 

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast.In today’s episode, we explore the very real topic of fear and anxiety in children. As you well know, every person at every age has moments of fear. Consider how many times Scripture tells us, “Do not be afraid.” For children specifically, each new developmental age brings up common fears as they are learning to discover the world around them and their place in it. But how do we know what’s normal, and what’s not? And when should parents be concerned?Episode notes:Understanding and Navigating Anxiety digital booklethttps://info.focusonthefamily.ca/anxietyHelping Children Manage Anxiety video serieshttps://info.focusonthefamily.ca/helping-children-manage-anxietyRead a related article here: Monsters and mid-terms: Helping your child cope with anxietyhttps://www.focusonthefamily.ca/content/monsters-and-mid-terms-helping-your-child-cope-with-anxietyFree, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.Support the podcast: https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/podcastgiving© 2014 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved. 

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast.We carry around a heart that is aching to be known and felt in a way that warms us from the distances we feel in our relationships. It’s a longing for that deep inner touch. And the closer we are in the relationship, the deeper the pangs of loneliness can be. Today’s episode, “Building Bridges in Intimate Loneliness,” was originally written by Tom Peters. Tom has been nurturing his passion for helping others for over 35 years. He holds a master's in Counselling Psychology. In addition to developing a private practice, Tom also is a practicing counselling supervisor and a member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. He and his wife of 30 years are parents to two married daughters, one son, and they recently became grandparents. Just a note that this episode is written by Tom, but voiced by a guest.Episode notes:Hope Restored marriage intensiveshttp://www.hoperestoredcanada.ca/Navigating Conflict in Marriage digital booklethttps://info.focusonthefamily.ca/navigating-conflict-in-marriageFree, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.Support the podcast: https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/podcastgiving© 2020 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved. 

​Welcome back to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast. This is the space where family, faith, and culture intersect. In this second season, the theme is healing scars. You’ll hear sound bites on how to navigate relationships and experience restoration from brokenness. And we sat down with ministry leaders as well as followers of Christ who work in a variety of sectors – all who are passionate about the restorative work of our Heavenly Father.

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast. Today’s bonus episode comes features a very special guest: Katie Leigh, the iconic voice behind Adventures in Odyssey character Connie Kendall! Katie has voiced a wide range of roles, and she's played the role of everybody's favorite teenager, Connie, for over 20 years - a part that strangely mirrors her own life. Katie attended the One Grand Party, a 2-day interactive event with two live performances last August at Focus on the Family’s headquarters in Colorado Springs when 6,000 fans celebrated episode one thousand of Adventures in Odyssey.Katie sat down with Kara Pippy, Focus on the Family Canada’s chief marketing officer, and they had a fascinating conversation about Katie’s work as a voice actor, what it’s like to be a believer in the entertainment industry, and what she has learned from her years as the voice of such a beloved resident of Whit’s End.Episode notes:Katie Leigh’s websitehttps://www.katieleigh.comFree, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.Support the podcast: https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/podcastgiving© 2025 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved.

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast. Yes, there are times where their questions may come at an inconvenient time, but a child’s desire for connection with their parent is a beautiful thing. Sometimes, the most important conversations are a two-way street. How can parents share their own mental and emotional health journeys authentically and appropriately with their children? How can they have honest conversations about their child’s grandparents or extended family in a way that’s honouring? In this final episode of season 1, you will discover how to do just that.

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast.When there’s stress in a marriage, it impacts all areas of life. While some couples find a way through on their own, many feel stuck. So, what differentiates someone who stays simply to stave off defeat, and someone who desires to overcome the strife they feel and ultimately thrive in their marriage?Today’s episode, “3 Qualities Necessary for Overcoming Marital Distress,” was written by Tom Peters. Tom has been nurturing his passion for helping others for over 35 years. He holds a Masters in Counselling Psychology. In addition to developing a private practice, Tom also is a practicing counselling supervisor and a member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. He and his wife of 30 years are parents to two married daughters, one son, and they recently became grandparents. Just a note that this episode is written by Tom, but voiced by a guest.A very important disclaimer: This episode is not intended for spouses in an abusive marriage. Spouses in this situation need detailed, expert advice that deals specifically with abuse. If you would like to discuss your situation with one of our professional counsellors, please call 1.800.661.9800 to arrange a free, one-time consultation. 

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast. Today’s episode is short and sweet, just like its subject. We put together a collection of insights from relationship experts about how to deepen love and strengthen communication in your marriage.A friendly reminder: Reference to the individuals quoted does not constitute a blanket endorsement of either the individuals’ external work or their respective organizations. 

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast. For today’s episode, we have the extreme honour of introducing a powerful testimonial of hope being restored. Gary and Joy had been married for 37 years, but as time went on, they both felt increasingly alone in the relationship. When they became empty nesters, the problems in their marriage they’d been avoiding for years could no longer be ignored. Then they heard about Hope Restored, a marriage intensive program at Focus on the Family Canada. Since 2018, countless couples on the brink of divorce have attended Hope Restored intensives at our Canadian retreat centres. By working with our marriage counsellors in both group and private intensives, couples like Gary and Joy discovered newfound hope for their marriages. Now, let’s hear from Gary and Joy.

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast. If you’re a parent of a strong-willed child, this episode is for you. It’s packed with expert insights to help bring out the best in your strong-willed child by discovering their motivations and how to build on their many strengths.

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast. Whether we realize it or not, the family we grew up in still impacts us today and it can be difficult to know how to create a family that thrives when we’re repeating unhealthy patterns of the past. Today’s episode dives into the meaning of our family of origin and how to navigate these intricate relationships. This is a massive topic, so if this episode sparks an interest to learn more, Focus on the Family Canada has created a free digital booklet that further explores this subject. It is free to you thanks to generous supporters of this ministry. 

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast. Today’s special guest is Andrew Montgomery, who came to our Canadian office for a special visit from Focus on the Family’s U.S. headquarters in Colorado Springs, CO. As director of organizational development and communications, Andrew creates opportunities for Focus on the Family staff to grow in their knowledge, skills, and abilities in the workplace, and oversees the ministry’s employee communications. He has been with the ministry since 2000. Prior to his current role, he served as the organization’s director of public relations.

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast. They say silence is golden, but in the context of marriage, silence can be devastatingly painful.There’s a lot you can say about saying nothing. Since silence can be used both constructively and destructively in a relationship, it's important we understand what is going on behind the silence.Today’s episode, “Silent Storm: When Your Spouse Won’t Talk,” can help guide us through this challenging path. We’ll look at the negative sides of silence, how silence can be used for good, and how to decipher between good and bad silence in a marriage.  

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast. Today’s episode features Pastor Sam Owusu, who took the time to sit down for a truly encouraging conversation.

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast. It’s natural for parents to step in and ensure our children will be okay. So, how do we balance that tightrope of protective parental instinct, and preventing our children from launching into adulthood?Today’s episode, “What to Do When Your Child Won’t Grow Up,” tackles these questions with love and care thanks to the wisdom of our in-house counsellors at Focus on the Family Canada. 

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast. Picture this: You and your friend are hanging out, talking like you always do, when suddenly, your friend is divulging serious stuff about their marriage. What should you say – and what should you not say – if you want to help your friend?Today’s episode can help guide us through this relational tightrope.  Just a note: Referrals to websites not produced by Focus on the Family Canada do not necessarily constitute blanket endorsement of the sites' content.  

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast. Whether you’re engaged, newlywed, or have been married for years, you know that spouses come with attachments: in-laws. These relationships have the potential to offer support to the married couple, but the reality is many couples struggle with in-law dynamics. Similar to having a newborn child, there is no instruction manual for how to navigate the complexity of this particular relationship. What can you do, then, when your in-laws won’t let go? And how do you navigate this issue without creating a divide that feels too big to cross?This is a big topic, so we’ve included a relevant resources in our show notes for this episode so you can continue learning and growing even after today’s episode ends. 

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast. Boundaries, both personal and mutual, are expressions of our values. They enable us to build a healthy relationship by feeling safe and secure. But what do healthy boundaries look like in marriage? How do we set them, and how do we maintain them? Today’s episode, “How to Set Marriage-Strengthening Boundaries with Your Spouse,” comes from Vicki Hooper. Vicki Hooper is a Certified Clinical Counsellor with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association, and holds a Masters in Education in School Counselling. She currently works as a marriage therapist with Focus on the Family Canada's Hope Restored marriage intensives. She also has an extensive background in teaching and ministry settings. Vicki and her husband, David, have been married over 25 years and are parents to two grown children. This is a big topic, so we’ve included a relevant resources in our show notes for this episode so you can continue learning and growing even after today’s episode ends. Understanding Healthy Boundaries PDF booklethttps://info.focusonthefamily.ca/understanding-healthy-boundaries-pdf Hope Restored marriage intensives https://hoperestoredcanada.ca/

In the first season of The Thriving Family podcast, we explore one of the most pressing topics that people ask us about – conflict and communication. Whether you need help in your marriage, as a parent, or in your relationships with loved ones, we want to help you with practical advice, real-life stories, and encouraging conversations.

Check out Focus on the Family Canada’s NEW podcast featuring authentic Canadian content, coming this June! This space – where faith, family, and culture intersect – will be available on our mobile app, website, and wherever you get your podcasts!