The Intentional Parents Podcast

Note: This episode contains mature themes that may not be suitable for younger listeners. Please use discretion.This week, we’re joined by our new friends Jeff and Jourdan Johnson, hosts of the Open Spaces Podcast. They share their remarkable story — a journey marked by honesty, redemption, and deep faith. Jeff opens up about his decades-long battle with same-sex attraction and how bringing his struggle into the light marked the beginning of real freedom. From childhood trauma to seasons of breaking up and coming back together, their story is one of radical acceptance, surrender, and the relentless kindness of God.After years of wrestling with faith and learning to let go of control, Jeff and Jourdan eventually got married and are now raising three children together. Their relationship stands as a living testimony that vulnerability truly leads to freedom. Jeff describes it as a daily surrender — dying to himself, trusting God’s goodness, and finding hope in the truth that even in life’s “unfinished symphony,” God is still writing a story of redemption.In a cultural moment filled with confusion and competing messages about sexuality, Jeff and Jourdan share how important it is for parents to speak about these topics early and without fear — to create space for honesty, and even share their own stories, so their kids know they’re not alone. Through Open Spaces, Jeff and Jourdan invite others to bring hidden struggles into the light, reminding us that God can use even our deepest brokenness and pain for His glory.Open Spaces: Website, Instagram, YouTube + Contact (with Questions)Scripture Mentioned: Romans 8:28Book Mentioned: Wrestling with God by Ronald RolheiserSubmit Questions: Send a voice recording to hello@intentionalparents.org, mentioning your name and where you’re from.Intentional Fatherhood Retreat: February 19-21, 2026 in Costa Mesa, CAIntentional Motherhood Retreat: October 23-25, 2025 in Portland, ORSowing a Hidden SeedIntentional Fatherhood: Website, Instagram, Spotify, Apple Podcasts + YouTubeJoin Our Legacy BuildersWatch on YouTubeFollow Us on Instagram: @intentional_parents @brook_mosser @emosserFREE Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down Parenting PDFFREE Text Message Daily Devotional MerchGrab a Copy of Our Book:Raising Passionate Jesus Followers (Now available in audiobook!)BlogThe Intentional Film Series

This insightful session explores the deep desire for connection and the longing to be truly seen and secure. The hosts discuss how God’s blessings motivate us to uplift others, emphasizing the importance of encouragement within female relationships. They dive into the nature of encouragement found in scripture, highlighting the vital role of vulnerability and commitment in friendships. Practical tips on speaking life into others and cultivating a culture of encouragement illustrate how our words shape both our homes and the next generation.

In this Q+R episode, we’re tackling your questions about parenting through some of the more complex seasons — from helping phone-free tweens stay connected to navigating sibling rivalry and reflecting on what we might have done differently with our younger kids.We start with communication and technology, sharing practical ways to help teenagers connect with friends without giving them full phone access. From using your own devices intentionally to trying creative tools like the Gabb Watch, Gabb Phone, or even a landline, we talk about modeling healthy communication in a digital world.We also look back on the preschool years and what we’ve learned since — how much those little minds absorb, and how we wish we’d focused less on behavior and more on heart formation. Rhythms like reading Scripture at meals (1 Timothy 4:13) and recognizing the difference between willful disobedience and emotional dysregulation have shaped how we parent now.Finally, we dig into sibling rivalry and the hope that our kids will one day be close friends. We share thoughts on speaking that vision over them, teaching repair in relationships, and remembering that these seasons ebb and flow. Proverbs 31:26 reminds us that “the law of kindness” should guide our words — especially when helping our kids learn to love each other well.Scripture Mentioned: 1 Timothy 4:13 + Proverbs 31:26Submit Questions: Send a voice recording to hello@intentionalparents.org, mentioning your name and where you’re from.Sowing a Hidden SeedIntentional Fatherhood: Website, Instagram, Spotify, Apple Podcasts + YouTubeIntentional Fatherhood Retreat: February 19-21, 2026 in Costa Mesa, CAMotherhood Retreat 2025: October 23-25, 2025 in Portland, ORJoin Our Legacy BuildersWatch on YouTubeFollow Us on Instagram: @intentional_parents @brook_mosser @emosserFREE Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down Parenting PDFFREE Text Message Daily Devotional MerchGrab a Copy of Our Book:Raising Passionate Jesus Followers (Now available in audiobook!)BlogThe Intentional Film Series

In this episode, we dive into what it looks like to raise kids in today’s clickbait culture. With endless information at our fingertips, outrage-driven headlines everywhere, and our children frequently walking through traumatic national events, it can be hard to know what’s real, what matters, and what doesn’t. No matter how many boundaries we put in place, outside voices are loud — and that makes it more important than ever to raise critical thinkers who can stand against the noise.Together, we explore what Scripture says about having a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7) and why this matters so much in a world full of half-truths and emotional extremes. We talk through how to help our kids not just think with the masses, but instead form opinions rooted in reality and truth. This means giving them space to wrestle, normalizing curiosity, and asking good questions to help them develop discernment and wisdom for themselves. It is an ongoing process — one that requires conversation after conversation, guided by the Holy Spirit.We also look at practical tools: delaying social media use (based on Jonathan Haidt’s brilliant research), talking openly about tragedies and current events, and modeling what it looks like to think critically and empathetically. Along the way, we highlight how teaching kids to sit in the tension, see the gray, and understand others’ stories helps them grow in empathy — and ultimately shapes them into leaders with their own convictions.You’ll also hear about the “3M Parent Trap” (model, mimic, mad) from Joey Odom and the importance of relying on God’s Spirit to do what we cannot in our own strength (1 Peter 1:14). Because without His power, all of this falls flat.We wrap up with a look ahead to our upcoming episode: what to do when the time finally comes to give your kids technology. If you have questions or ideas you’d like us to cover, email us at hello@intentionalparents.org.Scripture Mentioned: 2 Timothy 1:7, Proverbs 14:15, Philippians 1:9-10, Romans 12:2 + 1 Peter 1:14-16Submit Questions: Send a voice recording to hello@intentionalparents.org, mentioning your name and where you’re from.Sowing a Hidden SeedMotherhood Retreat 2025: More Info + Purchase TicketsIntentional Fatherhood: Website, Instagram, Spotify, Apple Podcasts + YouTubeJoin Our Legacy BuildersWatch on YouTubeFollow Us on Instagram: @intentional_parents @brook_mosser @emosserFREE Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down Parenting PDFFREE Text Message Daily Devotional MerchGrab a Copy of Our Book:Raising Passionate Jesus Followers (Now available in audiobook!)BlogThe Intentional Film Series

In this Q+R episode, we dive into some real-life questions about family patterns, parenting decisions, and initiating difficult conversations.First, we talk about the fear of repeating unhealthy family patterns. How can we learn from our past while creating a different path for our own kids? And what do we do when we notice ourselves falling into the same habits? We share how naming those fears — sometimes even out loud to our kids — can strip them of their power. Recognizing patterns is half the battle, and when we fail, honesty and apology go a long way.From there, we explore the hard but necessary work of saying no to even good things in order to live more Spirit-filled lives. Whether it’s homeschooling or another pursuit, it’s not always a black-and-white issue — it’s about prayerfully discerning our true capacity. God often uses our kids to bring hidden struggles to the surface, and part of leading them well is letting them see us wrestle with weakness and lean on Jesus.Finally, we answer a question about starting conversations with parents who don’t understand or accept the idea of breaking generational patterns. We talk about starting with curiosity — inquiring about their story — and then sharing honestly about what we’re noticing in ourselves and what we don’t want to pass on to our kids. We talk about the difference between being peacekeepers, who avoid conflict, and peacemakers, who bring truth with gentleness. Honoring our parents doesn’t mean we can’t have these conversations; it means we approach them prayerfully, carefully, and with grace.Throughout these responses, we explore how honesty, grace, and intentional choices can help us break old patterns, lead our kids well, and walk more faithfully in the freedom God offers.Scripture Mentioned: Ephesians 6:2-3, Psalm 138:3, Psalm 131:1-2, Hebrews 12:1-3 + Hebrews 12:7-11Previous Episode Mentioned: Breaking Generational Patterns, Knowing Your Story, Healing Family Wounds, Finding Freedom, and Passing On Faithfulness (Spotify, Apple Podcasts + YouTube)Submit Questions: Send a voice recording to hello@intentionalparents.org, mentioning your name and where you’re from.Motherhood Retreat 2025: More Info + Purchase TicketsSowing a Hidden SeedIntentional Fatherhood: Website, Instagram, Spotify, Apple Podcasts + YouTubeJoin Our Legacy BuildersWatch on YouTubeFollow Us on Instagram: @intentional_parents @brook_mosser @emosserFREE Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down Parenting PDFFREE Text Message Daily Devotional MerchGrab a Copy of Our Book:Raising Passionate Jesus Followers (Now available in audiobook!)BlogThe Intentional Film Series

This week, all four of us sit down for an honest and emotional conversation about trauma and crisis — how to respond when it strikes, and how to navigate it as a family. The reality is that at some point in life, you will walk through seasons of pain, and the question becomes: how do we carry each other’s burdens as Galatians 6:2 calls us to? Together, we share raw, personal stories of both acute trauma and ongoing struggles, reflecting on how presence in the middle of crisis can bring healing even when it can’t remove the burden. Simply being seen and acknowledged matters deeply.We talk about the power of prayer, the importance of lowering expectations for those in crisis, and how fumbling words are always better than silence. Scripture reminds us of the value of deep, intimate knowing — taking extra steps to learn, acknowledge, and show up for others in their suffering. Drawing from our own mistakes, we also warn against having a savior complex or tying everything up with a bow.Practically, we encourage families to get good at asking for help, develop a care team, guard their energy, and be honest about where they’re at so they can know what they specifically need in hard seasons.Phil closes the conversation with Scripture, reminding us of Galatians 6:5 and Psalm 46:1 — that each one shall bear his own load and pointing us back to the truth that God is a very present help in times of trouble.Scripture Mentioned: Galatians 6:2, Matthew 7:12, Romans 15:1, 1 Thessalonians 5:14, Psalm 139:1, 1 Thessalonians 3:1-5, Galatians 6:5, Psalm 46:1 + Colossians 1:24Previous Episode Mentioned: Tragedy, the Most Beautiful Women in the World, and Children with Special Needs: The Story of Birdie James (Spotify + Apple Podcasts)Book Mentioned: A Grace Disguised: How the Soul Grows through Loss by Jerry L. SittserSubmit Questions: Send a voice recording to hello@intentionalparents.org, mentioning your name and where you’re from.Sowing a Hidden SeedIntentional Fatherhood: Website, Instagram, Spotify, Apple Podcasts + YouTubeMotherhood Retreat 2025: More Info + Purchase TicketsJoin Our Legacy BuildersWatch on YouTubeFollow Us on Instagram: @intentional_parents @brook_mosser @emosserFREE Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down Parenting PDFFREE Text Message Daily Devotional MerchGrab a Copy of Our Book:Raising Passionate Jesus Followers (Now available in audiobook!)BlogThe Intentional Film Series

In this episode, we explore how generational sin, trauma, and family stories shape who we are — and how God invites us into healing and freedom. Scripture reminds us in Numbers 14:18 that the effects of sin can ripple through generations, but through the power of the Holy Spirit, those patterns don’t have to define us.We talk about epigenetics — how experiences like stress and trauma can actually impact us on a biological level — and why understanding our parents’ and grandparents’ stories matters. Context doesn’t excuse the harm done, but it helps explain it, leading to empathy, compassion, and deeper healing. When we begin naming the wounds, lies, and patterns we’ve inherited, they start to lose their power over us.We also unpack what a healing apology looks like, why repentance is essential, and how God can redeem even the darkest parts of our stories (Romans 8:28). While the pain you’ve experienced may not be your fault, your response is your responsibility — and it’s never too late to choose a different path.The good news is that just as trauma can be passed down, so can faithfulness. Each generation has the opportunity to take intentional steps toward freedom, wholeness, and hope.Scripture Mentioned: Numbers 14:18, Romans 8:28, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Galatians 3:13, Psalm 32:5 + Psalm 51:1-4Previous Episode Mentioned: Generational Trauma, Wounded Parts and How Trauma is Passed Down Interview with Sally Lemos, MS, LPC (Spotify, Apple Podcasts + YouTube)Book Mentioned: Forgive: Why Should I and How Can I? by Timothy KellerSubmit Questions: Send a voice recording to hello@intentionalparents.org, mentioning your name and where you’re from.Sowing a Hidden SeedIntentional Fatherhood: Website, Instagram, Spotify, Apple Podcasts + YouTubeMotherhood Retreat 2025: More Info + Purchase TicketsJoin Our Legacy BuildersWatch on YouTubeFollow Us on Instagram: @intentional_parents @brook_mosser @emosserFREE Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down Parenting PDFFREE Text Message Daily Devotional MerchGrab a Copy of Our Book:Raising Passionate Jesus Followers (Now available in audiobook!)BlogThe Intentional Film Series

Justin Whitmel Earley, author of The Common Rule, joins to unravel the profound connection between fatherhood and personal history. He and Brook candidly discuss how confronting generational sins can lead to healing. Justin shares his journey from inherited blessings to transformation, while Brook reveals the arduous process of grappling with a chaotic past. Together, they emphasize the need for self-awareness and faith in breaking destructive cycles, ultimately inspiring listeners to forge healthier family legacies.

As the school year kicks off, the discussion unpacks the myth of '18 summers' and its pressure on parents, emphasizing a mindset of abundance. The power of words in shaping children's identity is highlighted, encouraging mindful communication to promote emotional well-being. Routines are essential, with tips for creating flexible structures that incorporate spiritual practices. Finally, the dangers of comparison are explored, reminding parents to focus on their unique journey and cultivate gratitude for their family's unique dynamics.

Parenting can feel confusing. Many of us grew up in homes focused on rules and behavior, while today, there’s more awareness around emotions and connection. Both matter — but what do we actually do about our kids’ behavior? In this episode, Brook, Elizabeth, and Diane talk about what discipline really is, why it’s important, and how to approach it with wisdom and love.Discipline isn’t punishment — it’s training and guidance. Our conversation touches on how approaches to parenting have shifted over the decades, what the Bible says about discipline, and how to walk the line between too much and too little. We also talk about why each child is different, how parenting changes as kids get older, and how to handle it all with grace rather than anger.Along the way, we share four simple tools of discipline: gentle correction, loving rebuke, patient instruction, and encouragement. These give parents practical ways to guide their kids and build trust along the way.At the heart of this episode is hope. None of us get discipline right all the time, but it’s an important and biblical part of parenting. With God’s wisdom and a posture of grace, you can begin to discover what healthy discipline looks like for your family.Scripture Mentioned: Ephesians 6:4, Proverbs 29:17, Hebrews 12:11, Ephesians 1:15-20 + 2 Timothy 4:2Previous Episode Mentioned: Procedural Memory: How God Redeems Reflexes, Rewrites Patterns and Renews the Mind (Spotify + Apple Podcasts)Books Mentioned: Raising Passionate Jesus Followers (Also available in audiobook!) + Sowing a Hidden SeedSubmit Questions: Send a one-minute voice memo to hello@intentionalparents.org, mentioning your name and where you’re from.Intentional Fatherhood: Website, Instagram, Spotify, Apple Podcasts + YouTubeMotherhood Retreat 2025: More Info + Purchase TicketsJoin Our Legacy BuildersWatch on YouTubeFollow Us on Instagram: @intentional_parents @brook_mosser @emosserFREE Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down Parenting PDFFREE Text Message Daily Devotional MerchBlogThe Intentional Film Series