Wire Talk With Karen Stubbs

When your husband’s job pulls him away from home, it can leave you holding the weight of family life alone—and it’s exhausting. Today Karen is answering questions from moms whose husbands are frequently gone due to their line of work. From managing toddler tantrums and homeschooling to navigating resentment and self-pity, Karen shares hard-won wisdom from her own years in the trenches. Don’t miss Karen’s honest encouragement about what it means to trust God and stay grounded through the hard seasons! Episode Recap:2:35 - Karen’s husband Greg travelled extensively with his job during their early family years6:10 - How did you manage the inconsistency in your husband’s work schedule? 10:25 - We have to bring God into our daily walk as moms, He will sustain us11:30 - My husband works in a traumatic field, how do I support him without letting the darkness and stress of his job affect our family?15:05 - How do I help my husband get on board with what I’m doing at home since he’s away so often18:23 - Emily’s tips f

Today we’re talking about Good Friday —and reflecting on why something so awful was called ‘good.’ Karen walks through the events leading up to the cross, explains why Jesus had to die, and answers some common (and hard!) questions your kids and teens might be asking. Whether your children are little or nearly grown, we hope this conversation equips you to talk about Jesus’ sacrifice and bring the hope of Easter into your home this week.Episode Recap:2:10 - We don’t have to know everything, moms! But it’s our job to point our kids to answers2:36 - Recap of events leading up to Good Friday5:42 - Matthew 27:51-53 shares some incredible things that happened when Jesus died8:44 - Jesus willing endured the Cross for us - that makes Friday good!9:30 - Why did Jesus have to die? Wasn’t there another way?12:51 - Jesus was fully man and fully God, He is our High Priest13:35- Forgiveness doesn’t mean justice is ignored14:24 - How do we know Jesus’ death was real? What about the Resurrection?20:16 - What are practical w

From dealing with toddlers who constantly say "no!" to navigating three-year-old stubbornness, today Karen is answering your questions and sharing practical strategies to help you respond with consistency and grace. You’ll learn how to set boundaries that stick and understand why repetition is key to laying a foundation of obedience. Whether you're managing meltdowns or guiding a strong-willed child, this episode will equip you to keep calm and parent on!Episode Recap:2:43 - Is age two or three more difficult?4:41 - My four yr old doesn’t listen and it puts him in danger! How can I get him to take me seriously?7:15 - Toddlers HAVE to know that you are going to follow through!8:50 - I’m constantly threatening my 2.5 yr old daughter with consequences for not obeying, is she only obeying out of fear?11:00 - My 7 year old daughter has no motivation to do anything! How do I get her to get moving? 14:25 - Talk to your child’s teacher if their homework seems to take them forever at home, there could be something to

The stakes feel high when you’re parenting teenagers, but you don’t have to go it alone! Today Karen is answering questions from moms facing challenges as they are navigating the teen years. From dealing with inappropriate relationships and emotional struggles to setting boundaries and having tough conversations, Karen offers encouragement to help you parent with confidence. Whether your teen is acting out or just feeling melancholic, you'll find practical wisdom and support in this candid conversation.Episode Recap:4:06- It’s critical to be a parent rather than a friend during the teen years.6:48- My 16 yr old is texting inappropriate pictures with his girlfriend, what do we do?11:49- Strategies for connecting with a melancholic teen.16:50- My college-age child is making poor choices when it comes to grades/work ethic - what does tough love look like?23:07- How do I firmly address drug/alcohol use concerns with young adults who aren’t living at home anymore?26:21- My 16 year old is dealing with depression an

From preschool power struggles to teenage arguments, this episode is full of real mom moments. Today, Karen’s answering your questions on sibling conflict, possessiveness, and strong-willed kids. Whether it’s a four year old not wanting to share, or a teenager pushing against boundaries, Karen reminds us that parenting isn’t about controlling every outcome—it’s about cultivating character, modeling grace, and being a steady presence as kids grow and learn.Episode Recap:5:24- How do I help my child get over her excessive possessiveness? 9:50 - Should I get involved over the messiness of my daughters’ room? 12:18- My teens’ argumentativeness ruins the mood of our entire family, help! 17:55- How can I help cultivate a close relationship between siblings? Scripture for Reflection: Ephesians 4:2 (NIV)“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.”Questions for Discussion:Have you ever struggled with a child being overly possessive or anxious about their belongings? What has helped

Navigating hard conversations can feel like walking a tightrope, especially when it comes to extended family! Today Karen is answering your questions about setting boundaries, honoring traditions while carving out your own space, and maintaining peace without losing your voice. We hope you’ll take away some practical nuggets for the next time you find yourself facing a difficult conversation. Episode Recap:5:20 How do I know when to stand up for myself and when to bend?6:22 My husband’s family celebrates religious holidays in a purely secular way. I’m always frustrated by it when we are with them! What can I do? 10:18 We feel guilted into vacationing with extended family every year when it really doesn’t work for us anymore. It has become a source of tension between my husband and I. How do we navigate this? 15:26 How do I “uninvite” our babysitter on our family vacation??!20:00 My dad doesn’t want to see us at the holidays because he says we haven’t seen him/done enough with him all year long. How do I appro

Grief and joy don’t have to be opposites—sometimes, they go hand in hand. In this tender conversation, Annie F. Downs shares the story behind Where Did TJ Go?, a book she co-authored with her sister to help families navigate the loss of a child. Annie opens up about how her nephew TJ’s brief but impactful life deepened their family’s bond and taught them the beauty of holding joy and sorrow together. Whether you’ve experienced loss yourself or want to support a grieving family, this episode is filled with wisdom, encouragement, and hope.Episode Recap:4:26- Annie F. Downs joins us today!5:40- Prior to TJ’s death, Annie’s family was not nearly as close 8:00- Annie’s sister discovered she was pregnant with a child who had a life limiting diagnosis 10:45- Aunts and uncles get to say yes, so do it often! 12:45- How can we love on families who are raising kids while grieving? 14:30- Where Did TJ Go?  is a conduit for families to connect while grieving16:00- There is good news in sad stories, this is a Gospel story2

What is it like to raise children in the middle of a war? In this special episode, Karen sits down with Kimmie Saado, an American mom raising her five kids in Israel, to hear about the realities of life during conflict. From sirens and safe rooms to worshiping through fear, Kimmie shares how faith has anchored her family in uncertain times. Listen in as she encourages moms to raise up the next generation of Daniels—children who stand firm in faith, no matter the circumstances.Episode Recap:1:26- Kimmie is an American mom raising five kids in Israel3:03- How Kimmie and Sahar met and challenges of cross-cultural dating/engagement7:50- What it’s like to lead a Bible tour company in Israel13:20- Karen and Kimmie’s favorite places in Israel15:45- what has it been like to raise children in a conflict zone?19:39- how Kimmie’s son led their family in worship during moments of fear.22:30- how faith-filled habits help equip our kids and others to stand firm in faith.24:31- what does it mean to be a “Daniel”?28:15- what

Discipling our kids can feel like a big responsibility, but moms don’t have to do it alone! In this episode, the new BOAW Moms operations manager, Erin Mashaw, shares her journey in ministry and her passion for equipping parents to lead their children in faith. She opens up about her own experiences as a pastor’s kid, her years in church ministry, and the resources she’s excited to create to support moms. Tune in for encouragement that you absolutely can disciple your kids with confidence! Episode Recap:1:10 - Erin is going to be a breakout session speaker at the Soar Conference4:05 - True discipleship happens at home5:25 - Moms are the faith catalyst in American homes right now7:20 - During difficult times, we experience the deepest intimacy with God8:48 - How do we trust God in the waiting and the what ifs?10:40 - What can moms expect from you in your breakout session? 11:30 - Sign up for the Soar Conference! 12:15 - Fill your mind with truth through Scripture, worship, etc. Scripture for Reflection:Isaiah

Raising kind and respectful kids feels like a lofty goal some days, but it's possible! Today Karen tackles your questions about guiding kids through friendship struggles, addressing disrespectful behavior, and teaching them to stay true to their values. Whether your child struggles with peer pressure, sibling dynamics, or showing respect at home, listen in for Karen’s practical wisdom and discipline strategies to shape your child’s heart for the long haul.Episode Recap:5:45 - The Soar Conference is a chance to pour into your home, get signed up!9:00 - My 8 year old is picking up bad behavior from friends, how do I influence her? 11:30 - Sometimes our kids have to learn the hard way12:15 - My daughter changes her personality depending on who she’s with- how do I handle it?17:30 - My husband and I have different approaches to parenting disrespect, what can we do?23:35 - My child is so stubborn! How do I motivate her? Scripture for Reflection: Ephesians 4:2 (NIV) "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bea

Today, we’re diving into your questions about parenting kids with melancholy personalities—from helping a 5-year-old navigate self-critical thoughts to encouraging a 10-year-old who always wants to leave the party early, to figuring out how to connect with a tween who keeps butting heads with you. If you’ve ever wondered how to better understand your child’s temperament and parent with both wisdom and grace, you’re in the right place. Episode Recap:9:15 - My son can be so negative about himself, how can I coach him? 12:10 - My melancholy child always wants to leave events early - how would you approach this?14:45 - We have to learn not to be embarrassed our kids behavior15:40 - How do I build a better relationship with my blue son? 17:55 - Practice encouraging your son in his strengths 19:00 - How can I figure out my child’s personality color? Scripture for Reflection:Psalm 139:14 (NIV) – “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”Questions for

This week on Wire Talk, we welcome Sandra Stanley and her daughter Allie Cooney, co-authors of Meet Me in the Middle, a book designed to help moms and daughters build strong, faith-filled relationships. Sandra and Allie share lessons from their own relationship, and insights from their book—covering everything from communication struggles to the challenges of raising (and being) a teen girl today. They discuss the importance of creating a safe space for daughters, avoiding the “know-it-all” trap as moms, and learning to let go of control while guiding daughters toward wisdom and faith. Episode Recap:6:30 - Sandra Stanley & Allie Cooney join us to talk about their book, Meet Me in the Middle13:00 - This book was written for girls in 5th through 10th grade and their moms14:30 - Social media creates so much noise for our daughters today17:20 - Moms and daughters are facing many of the same pressures, just at different times in our lives and at different levels of maturity. 20:02 - When our girls feel safe wi

If you’ve ever felt buried under clutter, you’re not alone. Today Maria and Rebecca of Simple Spaces Ohio join us to share how decluttering has transformed their lives, how you can help your kids understand the value of less, and how a simple morning routine can bring order to the chaos. Whether you're naturally sentimental or just in need of a little guidance, this episode will encourage you to reclaim peace in your home and take back valuable time in your day.Episode Recap:2:15 - Clutter affects the way we feel in our homes4:00 - Young moms are overwhelmed by the chaos in their homes 6:30 - As your kids get older, you can help them understand they don’t need so much stuff 9:45 - Some people are naturally more sentimental than others 11:10 - Having a morning routine with just a few chores can help manage the overwhelm 13:00 - Decluttering gives you back time in your dayScripture for Reflection: 1 Corinthians 14:33 "For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—As in all the congregations of the Lord’s people

Navigating relationships with in-laws and grandparents can be tricky, especially when it comes to setting boundaries for the safety and well-being of your kids. Today Karen tackles your questions about managing challenging family dynamics with wisdom, grace, and confidence. Whether you're dealing with safety concerns, feeling smothered, or struggling with differing parenting approaches, this conversation is packed with practical advice to help you protect your family while fostering peace. Episode Recap:2:10 - Check out our new podcast set up on YouTube4:35  - How do I graciously handle having two sets of hyper-involved grandparents? 9:15- How do I handle my mother-in-law’s disrespect in a kind but firm way? 12:45- My mom hovers and overprotects my kids - what should I do? 16:45 - My in-laws have repeatedly shown they do not respect my boundaries, is there anything I can do? Scripture for Reflection: James 1:5 (NIV) If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fa

Description: As we step into a new year, Karen and Emily are here to help you start fresh. In this episode, they discuss practical tips for breaking bad habits, finding contentment in your current season, and making space for your own growth as a mom. If you’re ready to embrace 2025 with renewed purpose and encouragement, you’re in the right place.Episode Recap:2:30 - Jumping into the New Year, what are your New Year’s resolutions? 9:02 - My childrens’ bad moods put me in a bad mood! What can I do about this? 13:34 - How do I prioritize my spiritual growth with 3 under 3 in my home? 17:15 - How do I break the habit of having my 5 year old share the bed with us? 20:50 - I’m struggling with contentment because I want another child but my husband and I both feel like we can’t afford another one, help! Scripture for Reflection:2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV): “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”Questions for Discussion:Does your child’s behavior affect your o

Today Karen and Emily sit down with Elizabeth Pehrson to discuss how moms can parent with purpose by focusing on the long game. In this conversation, Elizabeth shares her no-nonsense approach to raising independent, contributing adults. Whether you’re navigating the pressures of parenting littles or wondering how to prepare your teens for the real world, this episode will leave you inspired and equipped. Don’t miss the rest of the interview over on Patreon! Episode Recap:2:09 - Elizabeth is a long time friend of BOAW Moms and a breakout speaker at Soar 20253:36 - She is mom to 8 and founder of The Exchange8:08 - Most women live a Groundhog Day kind of life, but they don’t have to10:32 - We can’t love others when we’re not loving ourselves well12:37 - How did The Exchange come about? 18:25 - We need to raise adults who are contributors, not consumers21:00 - We are overprotecting and under preparing our kids for the real world 24:00 - Young adults today do not know how to problem solve on their own25:01 - We ru

As we wrap up Wire Talk for 2024, we’re diving into practical ways to connect with your spouse during busy seasons. From showing appreciation in small ways to navigating family expectations and finding joy in spontaneity, Karen has got wisdom and real-life practical tips for you! Whether you’re balancing the holidays, family dynamics, or simply trying to plan a date night, we hope this conversation inspires you to be intentional in your marriage.Episode Recap:5:30 - How can I show my spouse they matter in small, but meaningful ways?9:00 - How can I accommodate my in-laws' tendency to plan way ahead? 11:45 - Communicating clearly is gracious, even if it disappoints others13:30 - I don’t feel lovey-dovey when we’re travelling, but my husband does. How do we navigate this dynamic? 16:50 - Did your yellow ever rub your blue husband the wrong way? How do I be more spontaneous to accommodate him? 23:00 - Thank you for all of your support this year! Sign up for SOAR in 2025Scripture for Reflection:1 Corinthians 16:1

Today Karen and Emily are diving into what it means to love like Jesus, even when it’s difficult. They cover preparing your heart, navigating tricky relationships, and approaching family gatherings with humility. You’ll learn how to manage expectations and hear practical ways we can love others like Christ loves us. Whether you’re juggling in-laws, extended family, or just trying to survive the season, this episode is packed with encouragement and wisdom for the holidays.Episode Recap:5:41 - Why is it so challenging to love our extended family like Jesus?10:26 - How can we shift our mindset and love family when it feels impossible? 12:33 - You can’t ignore your feelings, but you don’t have to act on your feelings. 13:30 - What are some practical ways we can prepare our hearts before family gatherings?16:00 - Pray and ask God to show you what He loves about hard to love people23:44 - The holidays can bring joy, but they can bring a lot of trigger points as wellScripture for Reflection: John 13:34-35 (NIV)"A ne

The holidays can often bring stress and guilt for moms as we try to make everything perfect for our families. In this episode, Karen and Emily share how to embrace a simpler, more joyful approach to Christmas. From favorite childhood memories to navigating tight budgets, they remind us that the best moments often come from just being together! We hope this episode inspires you to let go of the pressure, focus on what truly matters (Jesus’ birth!), and create meaningful traditions—whether planned or unplanned.Episode Recap:3:08 - Karen and Emily “This or That’ Christmas edition9:30 - Emily’s favorite Christmas memories growing up in the Stubbs’ home11:20 - The best memories aren’t always the ones you plan16:54 - Pick a few things that are important to you and forget the rest18:20 - Some traditions happen organically and end up being the kids’ favorite20:10 - How do I keep the holiday spirit alive as my kids grow?23:00 - Explain the budget to your kids and don’t feel bad about sticking to it25:32 - Mishaps can

Moms often struggle with guilt and overthinking, especially when it comes to making decisions for their families. In this episode, Karen talks about how to avoid the trap of overanalyzing every choice and instead focus on what brings peace and unity to your family. Whether you're navigating school decisions, holiday traditions, or just everyday challenges, this discussion will help you let go of guilt and embrace the best yes for your family with confidence.Episode Recap:4:00 Navigating mom guilt around holiday decisions7:30 Deciding whether to do Elf on the Shelf13:00 Setting boundaries for attending kids' birthday parties17:45 Learning to communicate clearly with your children before making commitments22:00 Making decisions that are right for YOUR family, without comparisonScripture for Reflection:Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV): "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."Questions for Discussion:What kind of mom