Every Christian parent will, at some point, “blow it” with their kids—but what you do next could be the difference between wounds that linger and relationships that deepen. In this special “Best Of” episode, host Catherine tackles one of the most universal and important questions in parenting: How do you reset when you’ve messed up with your kids? Whether it’s a moment of lost control, harsh words, or simply allowing daily stresses to overflow, the fallout can feel overwhelming. And yet, as Cathe...
Every Christian parent will, at some point, “blow it” with their kids—but what you do next could be the difference between wounds that linger and relationships that deepen.
In this special “Best Of” episode, host Catherine tackles one of the most universal and important questions in parenting: How do you reset when you’ve messed up with your kids? Whether it’s a moment of lost control, harsh words, or simply allowing daily stresses to overflow, the fallout can feel overwhelming. And yet, as Catherine reveals, these are the moments that matter most in shaping your child’s faith, resilience, and trust.
To guide listeners through this minefield, Catherine welcomes Kirsten Vossler, a mother of nine (now ten!)—and host of the Rejoicing in Motherhood podcast—who has worn just about every ministry hat imaginable: children’s pastor, worship leader, writer, conference speaker. Most importantly, she’s a “real life, grace-filled, occasionally blown it, but willing to repair” mom who believes that even when the stage gets smaller, the impact gets deeper.
In This Episode:
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Kirsten Vossler shares her “seven-step reset” for when relationships with your kids feel fractured, starting with the courage to just stop in the heat of the moment and physically remove yourself if needed.
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Both Catherine and Kirsten open up about their own imperfect moments—reminding listeners that every parent is in need of God’s grace and practical tools.
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Step-by-step, Kirsten offers ways to invite God into your frustration, humble yourself with heartfelt apologies (including the power of actually asking your child “Will you forgive me?”), and walk forward with tenderness, not guilt.
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They discuss the messy intersections of past wounds, present stressors, and the spiritual battle within, encouraging parents to invite the Holy Spirit to heal both their hearts and their children’s.
Notable Moments and Quotes:
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“Time doesn’t heal all wounds. If we ignore these moments, our kids carry them into adulthood.” – Catherine
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“Sometimes, we feel like the only options are to give up or give in—but there’s a better way: to reset, reconnect, and model humility.” – Kirsten Vossler
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Kirsten Vossler offers the truth: “Perfection isn’t the goal. Even the best parents can’t save or heal their kids completely. But we can model turning to Jesus—the only One who can.”
As Catherine sums it up, humility and repair don’t diminish your authority as a parent—they deepen trust and show your kids what grace looks like in real time.
About the Guest
Kirsten Vossler is a mama of nine (make that ten!), former children’s pastor and worship leader, and the gentle, authentic voice behind the Rejoicing in Motherhood podcast. Her steps have been forged in the crucible of daily life with a big family—and a bigger heart for connection and growth.
Parenting is crazy, but you don’t have to do it alone.
This week, try Kirsten Vossler’s reset steps the next time you “lose it”—and notice how God meets you in your humility. How will you choose connection over perfection with your kids this week?
EPISODE LINKS:
Kirsten's Website & Podcast
Subscribe and invite Catherine into your parenting journey at catherinesegars.com for free resources, encouragement, and faith-filled insight. Parenting as a Christian may be crazy, but you don’t have to do it alone.
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