Christian Parent, Crazy World

Transform Your Year: Learn More Scripture with Your Family in 2026! (w/ Zac Fitzsimmons)

Want to memorize more Scripture with your kids this year than ever before? You don’t need a seminary degree, a flawless routine, or a photographic memory—just a melody, a little intention, and a willingness to make God’s Word a part of your family’s everyday life. In this inspiring “Best Of” New Year’s episode of Christian Parent/Crazy World, Catherine welcomes special guest Zac Fitzsimmons, a gifted singer-songwriter and worship leader whose heart for God’s Word and knack for turning Scripture into unforgettable songs have helped countless families hide God’s Word in their hearts. What You’ll Discover in This Episode: A Simple, Powerful Way to Memorize Scripture: Catherine reveals her family’s surprisingly simple—yet incredibly effective—method for learning Scripture together: setting Bible verses to music. No perfection or superhuman recall required; just sing along as you fold laundry, do dishes, or carpool. Meet Zac Fitzsimmons: Psalm Songwriter, Worship Leader, Dad: Guest Zac Fitzsimmons, whose musical talents began at age 15 and blossomed into a life of leading worship and setting entire psalms to melody, shares his journey and explains why full, word-for-word renditions of Scripture make such a powerful educational tool. Zac performs live acoustic versions of Psalm 1 and Psalm 8: This incredible artist offers a moving example of how entire chapters can be memorized, meditated upon, and made meaningful through melody. The Science & Soul Behind Singing the Bible: Learn why music is a “supersonic power” for memory—moving truths from short-term to long-term storage in the brain. Whether you’re a parent who’s forgotten where you put your phone (again!) or a child learning a new psalm, a good melody makes all the difference. Tips for Busy, Imperfect Parents Take small “bites”—learn Scripture in short, daily repetitions. Use sign language or hand motions alongside melody to anchor memorization. Leverage idle moments—while driving, during chores, or winding down at bedtime. Reframe your expectations: even one verse a month adds up! Notable Moments & Quotes: “If you can remember the theme song to The Beverly Hillbillies, you can remember God’s Word.” “Scripture flows deeper through a melody—first into our heads, then into our hearts.” The memorable “Jello” method: how repetition turns memory from liquid to solid. Parents, what’s your first Scripture verse or passage you want to memorize together this year? Share your story and join the movement—because Christian parenting may be crazy, but you don’t have to do it alone. EPISODE RESOURCES: You can email Catherine to offer feedback and tell her about your Bible memory plan for the new year at catherine@catherinesegars.com. Zac Fitzsimmons Bio: Zac is a Christian singer/songwriter from Minnesota, USA. He has led congregations in musical worship for over twenty years and is most known for his ongoing endeavor of writing music and melodies to the Psalms word for word from the English Standard Version of the Bible. These songs are being discovered by people worldwide as valuable tools for soaking in the scriptures in a new way and aiding in scripture memorization. You can find links to the audio, lyric videos and chord charts at www.psalmsongswordforword.com You can also find Zac on YouTube and Instagram. To receive downloads of Zac & Catherine’s live perform of Psalm 8, Zac’s performance of Psalm 1, and all of Catherine’s Scripture songs, and pro tips for memorizing the Bible, subscribe at Catherine’s website: https://catherinesegars.com/resources See Catherine’s complimentary article on Crosswalk: “Learn More Scripture This Year with This #1 Proven Method” SCRIPTURE SONG ARTISTS: The Corner Room Seeds Family Worship King Things Esther Mui Benjamin NG The Bigsby Show (for the books of the Bible and the 12 Disciples) SIGN LANGUAGE RESOURCES: Hands Speak, Signs Savvy, ASL Dictionary Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What’s Keeping You Up This New Year’s Eve? 7 Ways to Slay Your Giants in 2026 - Ep. 171

Standing at the Edge of a New Year with Giants in Your Path? Discover Seven Biblical Strategies to Conquer Your Greatest Fears in 2026. Few things unsettle a parent’s heart like the uncertainty and challenges a new year can bring. When the calendar flips and giants—finances, relationships, health issues, parenting worries—seem larger than life, how do we stand firm in faith and lead our families with confidence? In this empowering New Year’s episode of Christian Parent/Crazy World, Catherine takes listeners on an honest and hope-filled journey, asking the crucial question: "How do you conquer the giants staring you down in the new year?" Drawing from her own season of transition—relocating her family, homeschooling five kids, navigating empty nesting, and facing financial mountains—Catherine shares seven unshakeable principles for slaying the giants in our lives, straight from Scripture and her own experience. From recounting stories of friends facing enormous trials to sharing her own “embarrassing” moments of doubt and panic, Catherine models vulnerability and practical faith. She reminds parents: Your giant is real, but your God is bigger. 🌱 7 Principles to Slay Your Giants (And Find Peace This Year!) Keep a Childlike Faith: Look to David, young and unjaded, who believed God could do the impossible. Jesus tells us, “Unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of God.” (Matthew 18) Fear Not: Identify the specific lie that’s fueling your fear. Don’t gloss over your anxieties—journal them, talk to God about them, and let Him speak truth in their place. Be Thankful: Shift your focus away from the giant by remembering God’s faithfulness. Thanksgiving isn’t just polite—it’s the bridge to supernatural peace (Philippians 4). Don’t Complain: Just like Israel grumbled in the desert and missed the Promised Land, complaining focuses our hearts on the obstacle—not the God who overcomes it. Choose gratitude and see your perspective change. Help Someone Else with Their Giant: Serving others shrinks your own problems. When your world feels small, intentionally loving and supporting another can break fear’s hold and invite fresh hope. Persevere in Prayer: Pray specific scriptures over your situation, your children, your marriage—every single day. Prayer doesn’t just change circumstances; it changes us. Remember God is With You (and For You): Whatever you’re facing, you never face it alone. God’s presence is your source of victory—He goes before you, fights for you, and He is for you. Why This Matters Now: 2026 may bring uncertainty, but God is bigger than every giant we face as parents, spouses, and believers. By reclaiming these timeless principles—faith, gratitude, community, and prayer—parents can move from panic to peace and model resilience for their children. Call to Action: What is the greatest giant looming over your family this year? Take hold of the principles from today’s episode and make them your daily practice—and watch what God will do! Share your story or prayer requests with Catherine at catherine@catherinesegars.com and join a community of Christian parents determined to walk in faith, not fear. EPISODE LINKS: Matt Scott’s “Fear Not” sermon (The Gathering Place) Scripture playlists, prodigal prayers, and more at Catherine’s website Giants may roar, but God’s promises thunder louder. Happy New Year—and remember, God’s got you, and He is bigger than your giant. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

5 Wholesome Christmas Films You May Have Missed—for Every Member of the Family - "Best Of" Ep. 51

Tired of searching for family-friendly Christmas movies, only to find options that clash with your values? Not sure which holiday films are actually worth gathering everyone around the TV for? Catherine shines a light on the dilemma facing so many Christian parents today: how can we find Christmas movies that are both wholesome and engaging—not just repeats of worn-out classics, but films that affirm faith, family, and the real reason for the season? In this special “best of” holiday edition of Christian Parent/Crazy World, Catherine steps into the critic’s seat to deliver her curated list of 5 Family-Centered Films for Christmas. After being shocked by the inclusion of edgy, agenda-driven titles in mainstream “best Christmas movie” lists, Catherine was inspired to seek out fresh, faith-forward options that won’t leave you cringing or hitting “stop.” Here’s her handpicked lineup, designed to offer fresh options you likely haven’t already worn out—and to fill your home with joy and true Christmas meaning: Kids’ Pick: Journey to the Christmas Star – A Norwegian fairy tale adventure with wholesome themes and just a hint of magic, perfect for little ones. Guys’ Pick: Joyeux Noël – A moving, true WWI story about the Christmas Eve ceasefire, exploring big questions of faith, war, and reconciliation (best for teens and up due to mature content). Girls’ Pick: The Christmas Candle – A charming British period piece set in a candle-lit village, based on Max Lucado's novel, brimming with questions about miracles and faith. Date Night Pick: The Family Man – A romantic, funny exploration of priorities and purpose, reminding parents (and couples) of the value of family over fleeting worldly success. Family Pick: The Nativity Story –Catherine’s top recommendation, this beautifully faithful retelling of Mary and Joseph’s journey brings the original Christmas story to life—and into your living room. For each film, Catherine shares why it matters, where you can watch it, and what to be aware of for younger viewers. She encourages listeners to use these films as a springboard for meaningful family conversations about faith, sacrifice, the supernatural, and what Christmas is truly about. She also invites families to discuss where these movies align—or deviate—from biblical truth, fostering discernment and depth. Finish your holiday season feeling equipped, inspired, and ready to lead your family in a Christ-centered celebration. Reflect and Respond:Which Christmas film has sparked a meaningful conversation in your family about faith or values? After tuning in, share your own recommendations or thoughts with Catherine and the CPCW listeners—and make sure to check out her complete list with streaming links at www.catherineseagers.com. Don’t miss out on the resources, encouragement, and conversations that set your family apart in a culture that often forgets Christ at Christmas. Tune in, and let’s put faith back at the heart of the holiday! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When the Holidays Hurt: The Christmas I Lost Hope—and Found Faith - Ep. 170

Hope and faith are never more deeply tested than in seasons of loss—and the holidays can magnify the ache in ways we never expected. In this heartfelt and timely episode, Catherine shares her personal journey of holding on to faith when hope seems out of reach, inviting listeners into a story as raw as it is redemptive. Christmas often conjures images of joy and togetherness, but for many families, it can also emphasize what's been lost—a loved one’s absence, a fractured relationship, or dreams that haven’t materialized. Catherine unpacks the question: How do you cling to faith when hope feels broken? Through the moving account of her own experience, Catherine reveals: The intertwined nature of hope and faith—like sisters searching for one another in the darkest moments. The surprising ways God meets us in our grief and disappointment, even when prayers seem unanswered and dreams feel dead. Her journey through the miscarriage of a child named Hope and the birth of her daughter Evangeline Faith, illustrating how faith often rises from the ashes of dashed hope. The symbolic lesson of two tiny angels—Hope and Faith—and the divine timing and comfort they brought during times of loss and longing. This episode acknowledges the realities of heartache during the holidays, while offering a message of profound encouragement: When hope feels lost, our faith can flourish in its place, anchored by the presence of Jesus—Emmanuel, God with us. Key takeaways include: Faith isn’t just for the easy times; it’s forged in the waiting, the searching, and the grieving. Hope lives eternally anchored in Heaven, but faith is given for the here and now, carrying us through seasons of sorrow. God redeems suffering and restores hope, sometimes in ways we cannot yet see. Resources and encouragement for parents: Free gifts for subscribers at com—including the ebook "Beyond the Lies," scripture songs, and a prodigal bundle for parents carrying extra burdens during the holidays. Sneak peeks for upcoming episodes, including a "Best Of" holiday film episode and a powerful New Year’s episode focused on biblical strategies for facing giants in 2026. Join Catherine for this vulnerable conversation—where loss meets promise, hope anchors the soul, and faith breathes new life into even the hardest seasons. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Rethinking Healthcare for Christian Families: Faith, Finances, and Biblical Wellness (w/ Dr. Ian Day) - Ep. 169

What if your healthcare choices could align with both your family’s budget and your faith? In an era where medical bills climb higher and insurance offers less, Christian parents are left searching for answers. In this eye-opening episode, Catherine sits down with Dr. Ian Day, a practicing physician of more than 25 years and the Chief Medical Officer of Medishare, to explore a radical, Christ-centered alternative to traditional healthcare. Healthcare is one of the greatest stressors for families today—unexpected bills, confusing coverage, and ethical compromises have made many believers feel helpless. But what if there was another way? What if solutions from the early church could provide both practical relief and spiritual support? Medishare is a not-for-profit healthcare sharing ministry, bringing Christians together to share medical bills and bear one another's burdens—both physical and spiritual. What You’ll Discover in This Episode: Healthcare Sharing Ministries Demystified: Dr. Day explains the mission behind Medishare, how Christian care ministry works, and why it’s more than just a “healthcare product”—it’s a biblical community modeled on Acts 2 and 4, where believers share both financial and spiritual burdens. What is Biblical Wellness? Discover Dr. Day’s holistic approach to wellness—caring for body, mind, and spirit—and learn how Medishare members are encouraged to prioritize spiritual health right alongside physical and emotional well-being. The True Causes Behind Skyrocketing Costs: Dr. Day breaks down exactly why premiums, deductibles, and medical expenses are spiraling, from prescription costs and hospital consolidation to administrative complexity and the lingering effects of the pandemic. Practical Solutions for Christian Households: Listeners get actionable advice on navigating the coming years, including the role of telemedicine, the importance of stewardship and lifestyle choices, and crucial tips for evaluating healthcare sharing ministries. Values-Driven Coverage: Catherine and Dr. Day wrestle openly with the ethical dilemmas of traditional insurance—funding procedures that oppose biblical beliefs—and celebrate Medishare’s commitment to supporting adoption, maternity, and life-affirming care while excluding services contrary to Christian values. Real Hope, Real Stories: Dr. Day shares moving examples of families whose lives were transformed by Medishare’s practical support, long-term care, and prayerful partnership—highlighting the difference a faith-based approach can make in life’s hardest moments. If you’ve ever wondered why your insurance seems to cover less and cost more—or questioned if your family’s healthcare can truly reflect your faith and values—this episode delivers understanding, clarity, and hope. Catherine closes with a reminder that believers are called to be the answer in a broken world, echoing the early church’s radical love and practical care. Why This Matters: As Catherine puts it, “For all the broken systems in our world, the church needs to be the answer. Believers need to be the answer.” If you’re a Christian parent wrestling with big questions about stewardship, wellness, and truly living your faith in every aspect of life—including those daunting healthcare decisions—this episode will both equip and encourage you. Parenting Takeaway: What steps can you take to model biblical stewardship, community support, and faith-driven discernment in how your family approaches healthcare—body, mind, and spirit? Meet the Guest: Dr. Ian Day is a dedicated leader in faith-based healthcare. Through Medi-Share, Dr. Day has championed a unique model where Christians come together to share medical bills and support each other spiritually, all in alignment with biblical values. With more than 30 years of proven service, Dr. Day has helped Medi-Share become the most trusted name in healthcare sharing, facilitating over $50 million in shared medical expenses each month. He is committed to providing Christian families with a compassionate, God-honoring alternative to traditional insurance, ensuring members are supported not just financially, but also with prayer and encouragement along their healthcare journey. Episode Links: Learn more about Medi-Share and Christian Care Ministry Viral Video of Robby Witt being charged double for an ambulance with insurance than the uninsured rate Catherine Segars—Free Parenting Resources & Email List Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.