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Growing Fathers Podcast

Growing Fathers

In 2020, we noticed that while mom blogs, secular dad podcasts, and more general helps were plentiful, there was a lack of resources for Christian dads who wanted to grow. Feeling the need to grow as Christian dads, we started this blog in an effort to share the lessons God was teaching us. Reading blog posts is great, but we know dads are busy. You may not always have time to sit down and read—but you can listen while driving, working out, or even doing the dishes. We want this to be a place where we can dive deeper into these topics, share personal experiences, and have honest conversations.

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  • 32 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 49 min
  • English
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  • #72
    November 5 · 50 min

    3 Reasons Not to Yell at Your Kids | Ep. 72

    Do you ever feel like the only way to get your kids to listen is by raising your voice? In this episode of the Growing Fathers Podcast, John and Kristopher discuss John Pate's article on three reasons not to yell at your kids. 1. There's too much to yell about 2. Your children need to know the value of your words 3. You speak on behalf of God Resources: •Three Reasons Not to Yell at Your Kids (https://www.growingfathers.com/three-reasons-not-to-yell-at-your-kids/), John Pate •Dads, Your Anger Is a Worship Problem (https://www.growingfathers.com/dads-your-anger-is-a-worship-problem/), Andrew Lee •Breaking Down Fights (https://www.growingfathers.com/breaking-down-fights/), John Pate-------------------------------------------------- Email: podcast@growingfathers.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growingfathersInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/growing.fathers/Website: https://www.growingfathers.com/#parenting #growingfathers #biblicalteaching

  • #71
    October 29 · 42 min

    The Power of Proverbs in Parenting | Ep. 71

    How can daily reading of the Book of Proverbs shape your family's life and parenting? In this episode, John Dalrymple and Kristopher Schaal discuss an article by Zach Sparkman and discuss: • Adapting family worship to different ages and stages • Using Proverbs to teach diligence, listening, and handling conflict • Addressing core topics with kids: friendships, money, and self-control • How Old Testament wisdom points directly to Christ and the Gospel • Practical, simple ways to read scripture at the family table Links & Resources: • Article: https://www.growingfathers.com/the-power-of-proverbs-in-parenting/ • Contact: podcast@growingfathers.com -------------------------------------------------- Email: podcast@growingfathers.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growingfathers Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growing.fathers/ Website: https://www.growingfathers.com/ #parenting #growingfathers #biblicalteaching

  • #70
    October 22 · 53 min

    Four Gospel Meditations for the Newborn Stage | Ep. 70

    Whether you are up in the middle of the night rocking a newborn to sleep, parenting toddlers, or navigating life with teenagers, the daily pressures of fatherhood can feel overwhelming. In this episode of The Growing Fathers Podcast, host John Dalrymple is joined by church planter and Growing Fathers team member Andrew Lee to discuss his article, "Four Gospel Meditations for the Newborn Stage." Having recently welcomed twin babies into a home with four older children, Andrew shares practical wisdom, humor, and biblical truths about how God uses the chaotic seasons of parenting as a catalyst for spiritual growth. In this episode, we discuss: • The Finished Work of Christ: Why our primary value as men isn't tied to checking items off a productivity list. • Serving as Your Calling: Rethinking home responsibilities and viewing your family as your primary ministry field. • God’s Glory in Weakness: How sleep deprivation and physical limitations force us to depend on God's strength. • Growth Through Difficulty: Finding purpose in exhausting seasons and helping older siblings step up to serve. • Church Care: Practical ways local churches can support families who are welcoming new children. Key Scriptures Mentioned: • Ephesians 2:8–10 • Mark 10:45 • Philippians 2:3–4 • 2 Corinthians 12:9 • Romans 8:28–29 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with a dad who could use some encouragement today! -------------------------------------------------- Email: podcast@growingfathers.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growingfathers Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growing.fathers/ Website: https://www.growingfathers.com/ #parenting #growingfathers #biblicalteaching

  • #69
    October 15 · 52 min

    How the Deadly Sin of Pride Hurts Your Home | Ep. 69

    In this episode, we explore the destructive nature of pride and what Scripture teaches about God’s opposition to it. We examine how pride often shows up in subtle, everyday ways, including: • Assuming we are more important than others • Bullying or taking advantage of the weak • Resisting authority and correction • Mocking or belittling others We also consider how pride affects our parenting and relationships, and why Christ’s example calls us to pursue genuine, active humility. Along the way, we offer practical encouragement for dads who want to cultivate humble hearts and model Christlike character for their children. Resources: • The Deadly Sin of Pride by Kristopher Schaal: https://www.growingfathers.com/the-deadly-sin-of-pride/ • Mere Christianity by C. S. Lewis: https://link.amazon/B04UdVPPD -------------------------------------------------- Email: podcast@growingfathers.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growingfathers Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growing.fathers/ Website: https://www.growingfathers.com/ #parenting #growingfathers #biblicalteaching

  • #68
    October 8 · 49 min

    Happy Wife, Happy Life? | How Husbands Can Refresh Their Wives | Ep. 68

    What does it practically look like to live with your wife in an understanding way? Discover four key areas where husbands can actively support and refresh their wives: Spiritual Refreshment: Protecting her devotion time and praying together. Physical Refreshment: Helping with household burdens and making space for rest/exercise. Isolation Refreshment: Giving mom quiet time alone to decompress. Social Refreshment: Creating time for date nights and adult fellowship. Action Item: Ask your wife this week, "How can I help you feel more refreshed right now?" -------------------------------------------------- Email: podcast@growingfathers.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growingfathers Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growing.fathers/ Website: https://www.growingfathers.com/ #parenting #growingfathers #biblicalteaching

  • October 1 · 1 hr 15 min

    Why Dads and Families Need Church History (Kyle Grant) | Ep. 67

    Why should Christian fathers care about church history? In this episode of the Growing Fathers Podcast, John Dalrymple sits down with pastor and writer Kyle Grant to discuss how knowing the story of the church can help dads better understand their faith and disciple their children.Church history helps us see where our beliefs came from, learn from the faithfulness and failures of Christians who came before us, and discover resources that can strengthen our own walk with Christ. Kyle also shares practical ways dads can begin introducing church history to their children—from simple family discussions to age-appropriate books and resources.In this episode, we discuss:Why church history matters for Christian dadsFighting theological rootlessness and learning from the pastLearning from both the faithfulness and failures of Christians who came before usUsing church history for devotional growth and personal sanctificationHow to introduce church history to your childrenPractical ideas like “Church History Thursdays”Recommended church history resources for dads, kids, and teensResources Mentioned:Why You Should Actually Care About Church History — Kyle Grant(https://thedailygraceco.com/blogs/the-daily-grace-blog/why-church-history-matters)For Dads & Adults:Church History in Plain Language — Bruce ShelleyZondervan Academic (https://zondervanacademic.com/products/church-history-in-plain-language-1)The Spirit of Early Christian Thought — Robert Louis WilkenYale University Press (https://yalebooks.yale.edu/book/9780300127560/the-spirit-of-early-christian-thought/)21 Servants of Sovereign Joy — John PiperDesiring God (https://www.desiringgod.org/books/21-servants-of-sovereign-joy)5 Minutes in Church History — Stephen NicholsLigonier Ministries Podcast (https://learn.ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols)For Kids & Youth:Do Great Things for God series — The Good Book CompanyThe Good Book Company (https://www.thegoodbook.com/ministry/small-groups/free-small-group-kits/do-great-things-for-god-series)Banner Board Books — Rebecca VanDoodewaardBanner of Truth (https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/childrens-books/banner-board-books-set/)Church History ABCs — Stephen Nichols & Ned BustardCrossway (https://www.crossway.org/books/the-church-history-abcs-case/)Reformation ABCs — Stephen Nichols & Ned BustardCrossway (https://www.crossway.org/books/reformation-abcs-case/)A Child Should Know series10ofThose (https://us.10ofthose.com/series/a-child-should-know)Risen Hope: The Church Throughout History — Luke H. DavisReformation Heritage Books (https://heritagebooks.org/products/risen-hope-box-set-the-church-throughout-history)Reformation Heroes — Joel Beeke & Diana KleynReformation Heritage Books (https://heritagebooks.org/products/reformation-heroes-second-edition-with-study-guide-kleyn-beeke.html)Christian Heroes: Then & Now — Janet & Geoff BengeYWAM Publishing (https://www.ywampublishing.com/c-70-christian-heroes-then-now.aspx?pagenum=1)Lauren Ducommun, Our Favorite Church History Books for KidsRead the article (https://laurenducommun.com/2023/10/02/our-favorite-church-history-books-for-kids/)--------------------------------------------------Email: podcast@growingfathers.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/growingfathersInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/growing.fathers/Website: https://www.growingfathers.com/#parenting #growingfathers #biblicalteaching

  • #66
    September 24 · 1 hr 6 min

    10 Tips for a Better Family Vacation | Ep. 66

    How can dads make the most of family vacations? In this episode, we walk through 10 practical tips for planning meaningful family trips—from setting expectations and getting enough rest to giving your children the gift of attention. Along the way, we consider how Christian dads can use vacations to strengthen their marriages, disciple their children, enjoy God’s creation, and glorify Him together. https://www.growingfathers.com/9-summer-travel-tips-for-families/ https://www.growingfathers.com/10-tips-for-family-vacation/ --------------------------------------------------Email: podcast@growingfathers.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/growingfathersInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/growing.fathers/Website: https://www.growingfathers.com/#parenting #growingfathers #biblicalteaching

  • #65
    September 17 · 54 min

    Foster Families and Opening Your Home | Ep. 65

    If you had asked Brandon as a teenager how many children he planned to have, his answer would have been a definite zero. Today, he has eight children, four of whom he and his wife fostered and then adopted.What does the Bible teach us about caring for the fatherless and opening our homes to others? In this episode, we discuss how the gospel transforms our view of children, parenting, hospitality, fostering, and adoption—and how fathers should view both the creation mandate and the Great Commission. https://www.growingfathers.com/planned-parenthood/ --------------------------------------------------Email: podcast@growingfathers.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/growingfathersInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/growing.fathers/Website: https://www.growingfathers.com/#parenting #growingfathers #biblicalteaching

  • #64
    September 10 · 53 min

    4 Ways to Teach Your Family Theology | Ep. 64

    How can dads teach theology to their families without being seminary professors? John and Kristopher discuss four simple ways to make theology part of everyday family life: talking about the sermon, discussing Scripture memory, using catechisms, and learning Christian creeds together. They also explore how theological teaching should move beyond knowledge to shape our children’s hearts, prayers, and lives. Articles & Podcast Episodes: How to Teach Your Family Theology — Kyle Grant https://www.growingfathers.com/how-to-teach-your-family-theology/ The Church Worship Service as a Family Discipleship Tool — Episode 2 https://youtu.be/KM74Yal1oCM Systematic Theology for Kids — Episode 31 https://youtu.be/J4GAlEdo0bM Doctrine Matters — based on Kevin DeYoung's Daily Doctrine https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1782954645 Theologically Driven — Detroit Baptist Theological Seminary https://dbts.edu/theologicallydriven/ Books for Young Children: Big Theology for Little Hearts — Devon & Jessica Robyn Provencher https://www.crossway.org/books/god-bb/ Everything a Child Should Know About God — Kenneth Taylor https://www.thegoodbook.co.uk/everything-a-child-should-know-about-god Leading Little Ones to God — Marion M. Schoolland https://www.eerdmans.com/9780802851208/leading-little-ones-to-god/ The Ology: Ancient Truths, Ever New — Marty Machowski https://books.google.com/books/about/The_Ology.html?id=UVbXEQAAQBAJ Books for Older Children & Teens: Big Truths for Young Hearts — Bruce A. Ware https://www.crossway.org/books/big-truths-for-young-hearts-tpb/ Books & Lectures for Adults: Basic Theology — Charles C. Ryrie https://www.moodypublishers.com/basic-theology/ The Apostles' Creed — R. Albert Mohler Jr. https://albertmohler.com/book-detail/apostles-creed-discovering-christianity-age-counterfeits/ John Frame — Understanding Apologetics Lectures https://wm.wts.edu/courses/understanding-apologetics Daily Doctrine: A One-Year Guide to Systematic Theology — Kevin DeYoung https://rts.edu/resources/daily-doctrine-book/ Catechisms & Creeds: New City Catechism https://newcitycatechism.com/ New City Catechism Mobile Apps https://newcitycatechism.com/mobile-apps/ Kids 4 Truth https://answersingenesis.org/ministry-news/ministry/kids-4-truth/ Westminster Shorter Catechism https://www.opc.org/sc.html Heidelberg Catechism https://www.heidelberg-catechism.com/en/ Apostles' Creed https://www.apostles-creed.net/ Nicene Creed https://www.ccel.org/creeds/nicene.creed.html Athanasian Creed https://www.ccel.org/creeds/athanasian.creed.html Children's Theology Resources Tiny Theologians https://www.tinytheologians.shop/ -------------------------------------------------- Email: podcast@growingfathers.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growingfathers Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growing.fathers/ Website: https://www.growingfathers.com/ #parenting #growingfathers #biblicalteaching

  • September 3 · 1 hr 1 min

    Parenting Multiple Stages at Once (Dr. Tom Kendall) | Ep. 63

    Dr. Tom Kendall shares insights on parenting across different life stages, balancing ministry and family, and the importance of biblical principles in raising children in diverse cultural contexts. His experiences in Togo and lessons from his own family journey offer valuable guidance for parents seeking to grow.

  • #62
    August 28 · 1 hr 4 min

    Top 3 Listening Recommendations for Dads | Ep. 62

    "What are you listening to—and is it helping you become a stronger dad?In this episode, John and Kristopher discuss Chris Lynch’s article, “Listening Practices for Stronger Dads,” and explore three important listening priorities for Christian fathers: listening intently to God, listening lovingly to our families, and listening intentionally to media that helps us grow.They talk about the difference between simply hearing God’s Word and truly responding to it, why dads often struggle to slow down and listen to their wives and children, how to become a safer and more attentive listener, and practical ways to put down distractions and be fully present.They also share some of their favorite types of podcasts, sermons, audiobooks, music, and other content that can help fathers grow in their walk with Christ and better understand God’s world.Whether you're listening during your commute, workout, yard work, or morning routine, this episode will challenge you to consider not only what you listen to—but whether you are giving your greatest attention to what matters most.Resources: "Listening Practices for Stronger Dads" by Chris Lynch (https://www.growingfathers.com/listening-practices-for-stronger-dads/) Atomic Habits by James Clear (https://amzn.to/4gjlG7K) The Briefing Podcast by Al Mohler (https://albertmohler.com/the-briefing/) The World and Everything in It podcast (https://wng.org/podcasts/the-world-and-everything-in-it)

  • #61
    August 20 · 48 min

    The Value of Storytelling in Parenting | Ep. 61

    Stories are one of the most powerful—and memorable—ways fathers can teach their children. In this episode, John and Kris discuss Walt Brock’s article, The Value of Storytelling and explore why God uses stories throughout Scripture, what kinds of stories fathers should tell, and how sharing stories of God’s faithfulness, our failures, and His grace can shape the next generation. They also share practical tips for becoming better storytellers and making everyday moments opportunities to teach our kids. Resources: The Value of Storytelling by Walt Brock - https://www.growingfathers.com/the-va... Made to Stick by Chip and Dan Heath - https://amzn.to/4xFvqPm The Art of Storytelling by John Walsh - https://amzn.to/4fXmuit

  • #60
    August 13 · 39 min

    Resolving Conflict God's Way | Ep. 60

    Conflict is inevitable—but it doesn't have to divide your family. In this episode, John and Kristopher discuss Joe Fant's article Resolving Conflict God's Way and explore how fathers can handle disagreements with biblical wisdom. Learn practical ways to cultivate compassion, humility, forgiveness, and peace in your home while modeling Christlike conflict resolution for your children.Article referenced:https://www.growingfathers.com/resolving-conflict-gods-way/Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: GQPDDPQ3SP0E18LN

  • #59
    July 31 · 56 min

    Preparing Your Kids for a Scrolling World | Ep. 59

    In a world of endless scrolling, how can Christian dads help their children pursue what truly matters? In this episode, John and Kristopher discuss the subtle dangers of our scrolling culture, expose three common lies that technology tempts us to believe, and point to biblical truths that lead to lasting joy, deeper thinking, and greater satisfaction in God. They also share practical ways families can model healthy technology habits and disciple their children in a screen-saturated world. Articles Referenced: https://www.growingfathers.com/preparing-your-kids-for-a-scrolling-world/ Music licensed through Soundstripe.Code: GQPDDPQ3SP0E18LN

  • #58
    July 9 · 37 min

    Parenting for Life | Ep. 58

    Article referenced: https://www.growingfathers.com/parenting-for-life/ Parenting doesn't end when your children become adults—it simply enters a new season. In this episode, we discuss the unique joys and challenges of parenting adult children and what the Bible says about a parent's ongoing role. We'll talk about navigating the shift from authority to influence, how to lovingly speak truth without becoming controlling, why prayer becomes more important than ever, and practical ways to stay connected as your children build lives of their own. Whether your kids are toddlers or in their thirties, this conversation will help you keep the long view of parenting and faithfully invest in your children for a lifetime. Music licensed through Soundstripe.Code: GQPDDPQ3SP0E18LN

  • #57
    June 25 · 37 min

    How to Talk With Your Child About Death | Ep. 57

    In this episode of The Growing Fathers Podcast, we tackle the difficult but vital conversation of how to talk to children about death and grief. Grounded in biblical truths from Exodus 12, we share personal stories and practical insights to help dads reject emotional stoicism and shepherd their families toward the hope of the gospel. Articles Referenced: https://www.growingfathers.com/talking-with-your-child-about-death https://www.growingfathers.com/how-to-talk-with-your-kids-about-national-tragedies/ How to Talk with your Kids about National Tragedies (Podcast Episode): https://youtu.be/6DbZdCrwl6U?si=0Sq-AB3djNdWLraB Music licensed through Soundstripe.Code: GQPDDPQ3SP0E18LN

  • #56
    June 18 · 49 min

    The Disciple-Making Parent (with Chap Bettis) | Ep. 56

    In this episode, special guest Chap Bettis shares insights on biblical parenting, disciple-making, and the importance of modeling faith for children. Discover practical strategies for raising godly kids. Buy the book, "The Disciple-Making Parent": https://amzn.to/47fQ50q Download the audiobook for free! https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com/freeaudiobook/ Visit https://www.thedisciplemakingparent.com for more resources. Music licensed through Soundstripe.Code: GQPDDPQ3SP0E18LN

  • #55
    June 12 · 38 min

    Living with the End in Mind | Ep. 55

    Article Referenced: https://www.growingfathers.com/living-life-with-the-end-in-mind/ Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: GQPDDPQ3SP0E18LN --------------------------------------------------Email: podcast@growingfathers.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/growingfathersInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/growing.fathers/Website: https://www.growingfathers.com/ #parenting #growingfathers #biblicalteaching

  • S1 · E54
    May 30 · 51 min

    Help Your Teen Find God's Will | Ep. 54

    Article Referenced: https://www.growingfathers.com/help-your-teen-find-god-s-will/--------------------------------------------------Email: podcast@growingfathers.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/growingfathersInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/growing.fathers/Website: https://www.growingfathers.com/

  • S1 · E53
    May 16 · 44 min

    Maturity is Not Just for Kids | Ep. 53

    "God’s work through us starts with God’s work in us. Before we can help our children grow into this kind of spiritual maturity that flowers into self-control and integrity and dignity, we must first root ourselves in that same rich soil." (Chris Pennington) Article Referenced: https://www.growingfathers.com/growing-up-with-your-kids/--------------------------------------------------Email: podcast@growingfathers.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/growingfathersInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/growing.fathers/Website: https://www.growingfathers.com/

Showing 1–20 of 32 episodes