Live Q+R from the Motherhood Retreat: Fostering Vulnerability, Receiving Criticism + Parenting Without a Healthy Model

In this episode, we had the honor and privilege of sitting down with Chris McKenna, founder of Protect Young Eyes, father of four, and author of 5 Habits of the Tech-Ready Family. Chris shares his personal story of early exposure to pornography and how that experience eventually led him to dedicate his life to helping families navigate the realities of raising children in a digital world.Together, we discuss why today's technology landscape presents challenges previous generations never faced, including the accessibility, affordability, and anonymity that place harmful content just a few clicks away. Chris explains what it means to be a "tech-ready" family, not by bubble-wrapping kids from technology, but by developing habits that help families wisely engage with it. We also talk about the hidden dangers within platforms like YouTube, Roblox and Snapchat, as well as the growing concerns surrounding artificial intelligence and its impact on childhood development.Throughout the conversation, Chris offers practical guidance for parents who want to move beyond fear and toward wisdom. From setting boundaries and evaluating risk to staying deeply involved in their children's digital lives, he reminds us that the strongest protection is found in authentic relationships. Chris also challenges churches to take digital discipleship seriously and encourages parents to lead with both grace and truth. Most importantly, he leaves listeners with hope that small, intentional changes can make a lasting difference in their families.Chris McKenna: Protect Young Eyes, Instagram, Facebook + 5 Habits of the Tech-Ready FamilyScripture Mentioned: Philippians 4:8 + John 1:14Books Mentioned: 5 Habits of the Tech-Ready Family by Chris McKenna + The Anxious Generation by Jonathan HaidtIntentional Motherhood Retreat: October 15-17, 2026 in Portland, ORIntentional Fatherhood Retreat: November 12-14, 2026 in Austin, TXSubmit Questions: Send a voice recording to [email protected], mentioning your name and where you’re from.Sowing a Hidden SeedJoin Our Legacy BuildersWatch on YouTubeFollow Us on Instagram: @intentional_parents @brookmosser@emosserFREE Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down Parenting PDFFREE Text Message Daily DevotionalRaising Passionate Jesus FollowersThe Intentional Film Series

What if you could fast-forward 20 years and discover what really mattered in parenting…and what didn't? In this rich and encouraging conversation, Elizabeth sits down with her mother, Diane, and our dear friend and mentor, Sally Lemos, to reflect on the lessons they've learned through decades of parenting, faith, healing, and growth.Together, we talk about the pressures parents face in an age of endless information, the fear of getting it wrong, and the anxiety many carry about their children's future. Sally and Diane share what they once thought mattered most — things like keeping a perfect home, focusing on performance, and emphasizing behavior — and why they now believe connection, humility, and relationship are far more important.We also explore the importance of emotional health, repair after mistakes, raising resilient kids, and creating a safe space where our children can bring their whole selves. Finally, we discuss what it looks like to parent adult children, break unhealthy generational patterns, and continue trusting God through the power of prayer. If you're looking for wisdom, perspective, and hope for your parenting journey, this conversation is for you.Sally Lemos, MS, LPC: New Bloom Therapy (newbloomtherapy.com) | [email protected] Mentioned: Deuteronomy 7:9-12 + 2 Chronicles 19-20Previous Episodes Mentioned: Was Parenting Always This Hard… Or Are We Just Failing? (YouTube, Spotify + Apple Podcasts) + Generations, Leaving and Cleaving + 6 Ways to Honor Your Parents (YouTube, Spotify + Apple Podcasts)Submit Questions: Send a voice recording to [email protected], mentioning your name and where you’re from.Sowing a Hidden SeedJoin Our Legacy BuildersWatch on YouTubeFollow Us on Instagram: @intentional_parents @brookmosser@emosserFREE Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down Parenting PDFFREE Text Message Daily DevotionalRaising Passionate Jesus FollowersThe Intentional Film Series

Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is based on our personal experiences and is not intended to serve as medical, psychological, or professional advice.This week, Brook and Diane share their experiences of being diagnosed with ADHD as adults and how that journey has given them a deeper understanding of themselves, their childhoods, and the challenges they’ve faced throughout life. For many adults, ADHD went undiagnosed for years, and receiving a diagnosis later in life can bring both relief and grief as unanswered questions begin to make sense.We discuss some of the ways ADHD can impact daily life, including feeling overwhelmed by information, procrastination, hyperfocus, and self-criticism. We also explore some of the unique strengths that can come with ADHD, such as creativity, perceptual reasoning, and the ability to see possibilities and solutions outside the conventional path. Understanding ADHD doesn't excuse our behaviors, but it can help explain them and provide a framework for growth and greater self-awareness.We also talk about the diagnosis process, treatment options, and how medication can serve as a helpful tool. Rather than viewing ADHD as a flaw to be fixed, we've learned to better understand how we're wired and how to work with our strengths and limitations. For us, getting help for ADHD has been a lot like putting on a pair of glasses for the first time, bringing clarity to things that once felt confusing.Our hope is that this conversation removes some of the fear and shame surrounding ADHD and encourages you to approach yourself with curiosity and compassion. Whether you have ADHD, think you might, or love someone who does, we want to remind you that healing, growth, and support are available. As Psalm 139:14 says, we are "fearfully and wonderfully made."Definition of ADHD: ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention regulation, impulse control, emotional regulation, motivation, memory, and executive functioning. It’s not an intelligence issue or a character flaw — it’s a brain-based difference in how someone processes and manages information, tasks, emotions, and stimulation. Many kids and adults with ADHD are highly creative, intuitive, energetic, and capable, but they often struggle in systems that weren’t built for how their brain works.Submit Questions: Send a voice recording to [email protected], mentioning your name and where you’re from.Scripture Mentioned: Psalm 139:14Intentional Motherhood Retreat: October 15-17, 2026 in Portland, ORIntentional Fatherhood Retreat: November 12-14, 2026 in Austin, TXSowing a Hidden SeedJoin Our Legacy BuildersWatch on YouTubeFollow Us on Instagram: @intentional_parents @brookmosser@emosserFREE Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down Parenting PDFFREE Text Message Daily DevotionalRaising Passionate Jesus FollowersThe Intentional Film Series

For the first time from our brand-new studio, all four of us are together responding to your questions on personal formation, marriage, parenting, and navigating generational relationships.We talk about how to process church hurt while still raising kids in the church, including the importance of separating people’s failures from the character of God, remaining grounded in Scripture, and modeling healing, honesty, and discernment for your children. We also discuss the responsibility leaders carry and what it looks like to pursue restoration with wisdom and humility.We also answer questions about addressing tension in marriage before resentment builds, learning when to absorb small frustrations with grace and when difficult conversations need to happen. From there, we talk through parenting children with different needs and why fairness is not always about equal attention, but about making sure each child feels seen and understood.Finally, we explore the challenges and beauty of multigenerational family relationships, including navigating distant grandparents, helping older generations find renewed purpose, and creating family cultures where everyone feels valued and connected.This episode is a thoughtful, Scripture-packed conversation on relationships, healing, family dynamics, and growing through difficult seasons.Scripture Mentioned: Luke 22, Hebrews 12:15, Hebrews 4:15, Isaiah 53:3, Galatians 6:1, Song of Solomon 2:15, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, 1 Peter 4:8, 1 Corinthians 7:3 + Proverbs 17:6Submit Questions: Send a voice recording to [email protected], mentioning your name and where you’re from.Intentional Motherhood Retreat: October 15-17, 2026 in Portland, ORIntentional Fatherhood Retreat: November 12-14, 2026 in Austin, TXSowing a Hidden SeedJoin Our Legacy BuildersWatch on YouTubeFollow Us on Instagram: @intentional_parents @brookmosser@emosserFREE Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down Parenting PDFFREE Text Message Daily DevotionalRaising Passionate Jesus FollowersThe Intentional Film Series

Live from the Intentional Motherhood Retreat in Franklin, this episode is a candid Q&R conversation around marriage, communication, parenting, and healing from the past. We respond to questions from attendees about how to cultivate deeper vulnerability with your spouse and parenting when you don't have a healthy model to follow.We talk about practical ways to help a spouse open up emotionally, including asking thoughtful questions like “What do you think about this?” instead of “How do you feel?” We also discuss the importance of paying attention to the environment, timing, and tone of hard conversations, recognizing how much those factors shape whether someone feels safe to engage.We also explore what it looks like to stay honest and vulnerable in marriage when feedback is often heard as criticism. Encouragement and affirmation matter deeply, especially when your spouse’s story includes wounds from a lack of affirmation growing up. Knowing your spouse’s story helps you become an agent of healing rather than hurt.The conversation closes with an honest discussion about parenting when you didn’t have healthy examples yourself. We talk about the importance of finding strong models, building a network of support, and acknowledging the pain you may have experienced in your own family before you can begin to relearn healthier patterns. Ultimately, we reflect on the importance of parenting the specific family God has entrusted to you in this season, while remaining open to the guidance of the Holy Spirit instead of trying to control every outcome.Scripture Mentioned: James 1:19-20, 2 Corinthians 5:17 + 1 Corinthians 11:1 Submit Questions: Send a voice recording to [email protected], mentioning your name and where you’re from.Sowing a Hidden SeedJoin Our Legacy BuildersWatch on YouTubeFollow Us on Instagram: @intentional_parents @brookmosser@emosserFREE Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down Parenting PDFFREE Text Message Daily DevotionalRaising Passionate Jesus FollowersThe Intentional Film Series

We’re back with part two of our conversation on sex in marriage, this time getting into some of the hidden blockers of desire, along with a few practical ways to start moving past them. The goal isn’t just more sex, but a relationship where intimacy actually feels meaningful again.A lot of what gets in the way isn’t obvious. Small, unresolved tensions can build up over time and create distance, even if nothing major is “wrong.” When those things go unaddressed, it’s hard to feel close in any sense.On top of that, seasons change, but expectations don’t always keep up. Different life stages, stress, and even things like hormones can all affect desire. If those realities aren’t talked about, it can lead to frustration or quiet disappointment that slowly chips away at connection.And then there’s what a lot of couples experience at some point: slipping into more of a roommate dynamic. Life inevitably gets full, attraction can fade or shift, and responsibilities and tasks can replace relationship and intimacy.The good news is this stuff isn’t permanent. With some intention and healing, things can shift and grow in a healthy direction.Practical Rhythms to Try:Take 10 minutes to have a “state of us” conversation, asking each other: “How can I show up for you today?” and “What is one thing I can do that will make you feel loved?”Repair within 24 hours.Rebuild playfulness.Listen to Part 1, “Sex in Marriage: Communication, Connection + Healing Past Wounds Around Intimacy”: YouTube, Spotify + Apple PodcastsScripture Mentioned: Hebrews 12:15, Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 + Colossians 3:12Submit Questions: Send a voice recording to [email protected], mentioning your name and where you’re from.Sowing a Hidden SeedJoin Our Legacy BuildersWatch on YouTubeFollow Us on Instagram: @intentional_parents @brookmosser@emosserFREE Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down Parenting PDFFREE Text Message Daily DevotionalRaising Passionate Jesus FollowersThe Intentional Film Series

In this episode, Brook and Diane share a candid conversation about their overlapping journeys of healing from trauma, exploring what it means to grow emotionally and relationally. Reflecting on the “narrow way,” they talk about how true healing requires humility, acknowledging the need for God, confessing weakness, and recognizing there is always room to grow. Diane opens up about carrying pain into adulthood and how obedience shifted from rule-following for safety to a pursuit of freedom and intimacy with God.They also dive into the challenge of addressing the ways we’ve hurt others, especially within family. Diane reflects on her upbringing in a home marked by anger and emotional distance, while Brook shares how he’s intentionally inviting his children into his own healing process through honesty and repair. Together, they emphasize breaking generational patterns by creating space for open conversations — with both children and parents — without blame or cancellation.The episode highlights the role of the Holy Spirit as central to healing, alongside the practical help of therapy. Diane shares how her recent ADHD diagnosis brought clarity to her past and helped her confront false beliefs about herself. As they close, both point to simple, consistent practices that sustain their growth — time with God, prayer, and staying connected to trusted community — highlighting the reality that healing is a lifelong journey best walked with others.Scripture Mentioned: Matthew 7:13-14 + Genesis 1-3Submit Questions: Send a voice recording to [email protected], mentioning your name and where you’re from.Sowing a Hidden SeedJoin Our Legacy BuildersWatch on YouTubeFollow Us on Instagram: @intentional_parents @brookmosser@emosserFREE Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down Parenting PDFFREE Text Message Daily DevotionalRaising Passionate Jesus FollowersThe Intentional Film Series

In this meaningful conversation, we sit down with Katherine Wolf, whose story has deeply impacted our lives and understanding of faith and suffering. At 26, Katherine experienced a massive brain stem stroke that nearly took her life. Now, 18 years later, she lives with significant disabilities, yet continues to live with purpose, joy, and a resilient faith. She shares the long journey of learning to believe that even in hardship, “the boundary lines have fallen in pleasant places,” and how her early years were marked by deep struggle before discovering a renewed sense of calling.Katherine reflects on holding both joy and pain at the same time, and how suffering can shape not only us, but our children and families in meaningful ways. We talk about marriage in the midst of hardship, which includes choosing to come together as a team, extending grace, and recognizing the sacredness of caring for one another. She also speaks to grieving unmet expectations, embracing the life in front of you, and trusting that God’s presence, not a perfect life, is what defines true goodness.This episode is a powerful reminder that our pain is not wasted. Through honest perspective shifts and a deep dependence on Jesus, Katherine points us toward a hope that heals and a life that is still, even now, full of purpose.Katherine Wolf: Hope Heals: Instagram, Books, Camps + Retreats, Speaking + PodcastScripture Mentioned: Psalm 16:6, Acts 13:36, Matthew 7:24-27, Psalm 84:11, Romans 8:28 + 2 Corinthians 4:8-9Books Mentioned: Treasures in the Dark by Katherine Wolf + Domestic Monastery by Ronald RolheiserSubmit Questions: Send a voice recording to [email protected], mentioning your name and where you’re from.Sowing a Hidden SeedIntentional Motherhood Retreat: April 23-25, 2026 in Franklin, TNJoin Our Legacy BuildersWatch on YouTubeFollow Us on Instagram: @intentional_parents @brookmosser@emosserFREE Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down Parenting PDFFREE Text Message Daily DevotionalRaising Passionate Jesus FollowersThe Intentional Film Series

So many parents carry an unspoken “I should…” list: “I should be more patient, more present, doing more, doing better.” In a world full of parenting advice and constant input, it’s easy to feel like we know so much and yet, still aren’t doing enough. In this episode, we talk about how that pressure often leads to shame and guilt, and why it matters to understand the difference: guilt says “I did something bad,” while shame says “I am bad.” One leads us toward repentance and growth, while the other keeps us stuck, isolated, and disconnected.We explore how shame has been part of the human story since the beginning, and how it still shows up today in the subtle lies we believe about ourselves as parents. But instead of striving for perfection, we’re invited into dependence, trusting that God meets us in our weakness, just as He did with Moses. We also talk about practical ways to respond when shame creeps in: quieting the noise, getting honest about where our expectations come from, pursuing vulnerable relationships, and practicing repair when needed.At the end of the day, parenting isn’t about getting everything right. It’s about walking in faith, holding onto hope, and learning to love our kids well, even in our imperfection.Brook’s Interview on the Open Spaces Podcast: YouTube, Spotify + Apple PodcastsScripture Mentioned: 2 Corinthians 7:10, Genesis 3:9-11, Hebrews 11:24-28 + Hebrews 10:23-24Submit Questions: Send a voice recording to [email protected], mentioning your name and where you’re from.Sowing a Hidden SeedIntentional Motherhood Retreat: April 23-25, 2026 in Franklin, TNJoin Our Legacy BuildersWatch on YouTubeFollow Us on Instagram: @intentional_parents @brookmosser@emosserFREE Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down Parenting PDFFREE Text Message Daily DevotionalRaising Passionate Jesus FollowersThe Intentional Film Series

In this spontaneous conversation from the Bless God Summit, Brook sits down with magician Dustin Tavella — best known for winning America’s Got Talent — to hear the powerful and inspiring story behind his life, faith, and calling.Dustin shares about his difficult childhood, marked by addiction and instability in his home, and the couple who stepped in to love and invest in him consistently. Through their presence, he encountered a God who cares personally and pursues the heart, not just circumstances. That experience sparked a transformation in his entire family, leading to restored relationships and a new direction.Throughout the conversation, Dustin reflects on how God uses the things we love to serve others, from launching a homeless ministry that grew into the D PLUS Project, to discovering magic as a way to connect with people and share hope. He opens up about seasons of financial struggle, anxiety, miscarriage, and the journey of adopting their son, all while learning to trust God’s redirection in moments that didn’t go as planned.From early rejection on America’s Got Talent to ultimately winning, Dustin emphasizes that true success wasn’t the platform; it was the daily choice to say “yes” to Jesus. His story is a reminder that following God isn’t complicated: it’s about loving people well, embracing the unseen moments, and trusting that even the detours are part of a greater story. The episode closes with Dustin performing a mind-blowing magic trick, highlighting the beauty of play, joy, and meaningful connection.Scripture Mentioned: Matthew 13:1-23, 1 Corinthians 10:23 + John 2:1-11Submit Questions: Send a voice recording to [email protected], mentioning your name and where you’re from.Sowing a Hidden SeedIntentional Motherhood Retreat: April 23-25, 2026 in Franklin, TNJoin Our Legacy BuildersWatch on YouTubeFollow Us on Instagram: @intentional_parents @brookmosser@emosserFREE Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down Parenting PDFFREE Text Message Daily DevotionalRaising Passionate Jesus FollowersThe Intentional Film Series