Parenting is not an inborn skill. It is something that we learn over time from trial and error and with help from others.  Over the past 28 years raising our 10 kids we have made a lot of mistakes, but also learned from them!  In this podcast, we go over 12 tips that we have found make a big difference in the life of a family.  They are principles that we live by and how we have gotten where we are today.  None of them are rocket science – but they are things you may not have thought of before or realized how essential they are.  We have released this podcast ..read more

Most of us rarely have an opportunity to sit down and talk to a priest, let alone a bishop!  We were so blessed to have a conversation with not just a bishop, but an archbishop and one who loves the Lord, loves families, and who leads with the heart of a shepherd.  Join us as we talk to Archbishop Naumann of Kansas City who shares his story of growing up without a father and how his mother and family gave him the stability and security he needed to flourish and become the man God called him to be.  He provides insights to families in our conversation along with a good dose o ..read more

In this episode, Mike and Alicia Hernon explore the transformative impact of conversations with children. They emphasize the importance of fostering a family culture centered around meaningful dialogue. From toddlers to teens, discover practical strategies for nurturing curiosity, understanding, and mutual respect within the parent-child relationship. Don’t miss out on this engaging discussion that highlights the profound influence of conversations in shaping both children and parents alike.   Key Takeaways Conversations form your children, but more importantly, it forms YOU Kids wil ..read more

"Thank you, every woman, for the simple fact of being a woman! Through the insight which is so much a part of your womanhood you enrich the world's understanding and help to make human relations more honest and authentic." John Paul II, Letter to Women Women have particular gifts to bring to the world which were identified by John Paul II as the “genius of women”.  The Given Institute was created by religious superiors of the major orders in the United States and works with young women in all states of life to help them realize that they are gift, work to discover their unique gi ..read more

"It's our experience that parents who don't allow their children to play with weapons have little boys who will chew their toast into the shape of a gun" “Hello, I wanted to ask a question in regard to violent play for a toddler. My 4 year old boy is obsessed with all types of toy swords, lasers, etc. Any suggestions on how to manage it in a way that lets him explore but also places limits on it?”   This question came from a listener who is a mom of a normal boy!  But often this type of behavior catches parents unaware.  Our culture gives so many confusing messages ..read more

By acting in the world as earthly fathers, we begin to see the world through the eyes of the Heavenly Father and that includes seeing ourselves through the eyes of the Father. In this faith-filled episode of the Messy Family Podcast, Mike and Alicia discuss the significance of authenticity, the power of family traditions, and the impact of a vibrant faith community. Whether you’re a seasoned parent or just starting your family journey, this episode promises valuable insights and practical tools for nurturing a legacy of faith that will endure for generations to come. Tune in to the Messy Fam ..read more

In this episode of the podcast, we delve into the heart of family bonding and spiritual growth with an enlightening interview with the Marinist Family. Guided by the profound core beliefs of the Marianist Family Retreat Ministry, our guests share invaluable insights into strengthening familial ties, fostering communication, and embracing forgiveness and commitment within the family unit. Key Takeaways: Discover the transformative power of affirming familial love and forgiveness. Embrace the teachings of Mary as a model for nurturing familial spirituality. Explore the concept of discipleship ..read more

For a child to learn how to love, they need to first be loved.   Key Takeaways We need to parent the way God fathers us, free of emotion and manipulation Discipline starts with relationship because its all about forming their hearts. We need to teach children how to repair and restore relationships when they do the wrong thing.   Couple Discussion Questions In our childhoods have we experienced shame from our parents or those in authority?  How did that make me feel? Do we imitate those behaviors in our parenting? How can we reflect God the Father more in our forma ..read more

Your family culture is the operating system in your home.  It communicates to your children more powerfully than any written word. Family culture is something that we are passionate about in this ministry! We believe that this is the secret weapon of the Catholic family and something that every mom and dad needs to be very intentional about. The culture within the home is like the operating system in your family and it communicates more powerfully than any written word. In this episode we give the foundations of family culture and explain why it’s important. Because there is so much to ..read more

Embark on the second part of the compelling discussion with Mike and Alicia Hernon on The Messy Family Podcast. In this captivating follow-up to the previous episode, “Headship – Do Wives Have to Obey?” the Hernons dive even deeper into the nuances of marital dynamics and the concept of headship. As the Lenten season approaches, the Hernons extend an invitation to their audience, encouraging participation in the Cana 90 Lenten program designed for couples. Reflecting on the importance of embracing one’s vocation, the conversation seamlessly picks up from the last episode, addressing the comple ..read more