Navigating faith, doubt, and parenting with grace with Kristin LaValley — The Christian Parenting Podcast - Motherhood, Teaching kids about Jesus, Intentional parenting, Raising Christian kids

Hey friends,

Have you ever felt like you’re trying to pass on faith to your kids while quietly wrestling with your own? If so, this episode is for you.

This week I’m joined by Kristin LaValley, writer, retreat host, and mom of five, who brings so much vulnerability and hope to the table. Kristin’s story is one many of us can relate to: growing up in the church, facing seasons of doubt and deconstruction, and learning how to build a gentler, deeper faith in the aftermath. Her wisdom is rooted in real experience, and she reminds us that asking questions doesn’t disqualify us, it invites us to know God more fully.

Here are just a few of the things we unpack in today’s conversation:

Why fear-based faith doesn’t last, and how to replace it with something more rooted in love
The difference between shame and conviction, especially when helping our kids process emotions
How to give our children spiritual agency without disengaging from their discipleship
What it means to be a non-anxious presence in the midst of theological tension

This one is tender, thoughtful, and full of grace. I hope it reminds you that God can hold both your faith and your questions.

Kristin LaValley is a writer, retreat leader, and mother of five living in New England. She helps women process faith, trauma, and spiritual transformation with honesty and hope. Her latest book, Growing Up Saved, is a heartfelt reflection on evangelical culture, mental health, and rebuilding faith after deconstruction.

(01:28) Transitioning from Homeschooling to Public School

(02:41) The Power of Writing in Healing

(05:19) Navigating Church Hurt and Parenting

(10:36) Giving Kids Agency in Their Faith

(20:38) Understanding Shame and Its Impact on Faith

(28:38) Kristen's Book and Closing Thoughts

Connect with Kristen

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Growing Up Saved book

Resources Mentioned