Advent is a story rooted in wonder—and that wonder didn’t end 2,000 years ago. It continues to unfold in our lives, in our families, and in our faith, inviting us to pay attention to the sacred moments still breaking into the ordinary. This season is special not just because of what happened long ago, but because of what is still happening now, as we open ourselves to the awe, hope, and possibility Advent brings.

The sweet potato pie might be perfect—but the conversation? That’s another story. This episode dives into the beautifully chaotic reality of gathering with the people we love… but don’t always like during the holidays. Using Genesis 2:24 as our guide—“That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh”—we explore what it means to create unity and grace at a table that often feels divided.

From awkward questions to heartfelt moments, Surviving the Holiday Table reminds us that love doesn’t mean agreeing on everything—it means showing up, choosing connection, and finding holiness even in the mess.

Travel can bless us, stress us and fulfill us. While family travel can test our patience and stress our budget, it also gives us a chance to encounter God as individuals and together as a unit. In this episode, you’ll discover the three truths that travel can teach us. The good, the bag, and the ugly.

What makes a strong, Christ-centered family? In this episode, we’ll explore four essentials that every Christian household needs to thrive: forgiveness, laughter, vulnerability, and intention. Forgiveness allows grace to flow freely when mistakes happen. Laughter keeps joy alive, even in the hard seasons. Vulnerability opens the door for deeper connection and authentic love. And intention helps families stay rooted in faith, making choices that reflect God’s heart. Together, these four practices build homes that aren’t perfect—but are filled with love, resilience, and the presence of Christ.

We’re diving into the uncomfortable truth that everything in our families and homes is constantly shifting—relationships evolve, roles change, and seasons come and go. But what happens to our faith in the middle of it all? How do we trust a steady God when nothing else seems to stay the same? Join us as we talk about navigating the unexpected, grieving what no longer is, and finding spiritual grounding when life feels anything but stable.

In this episode, we explore the timeless story of the Prodigal Son—and how it speaks directly to the joys and struggles of real-life family relationships. What do we do when the people we love make choices we wouldn’t make? How can we respond with grace instead of judgment, and love instead of control? Join us as we reflect on what it means to walk alongside one another in the messiness of life, and how God's example of unconditional love can guide us to deeper compassion, patience, and connection with those closest to us.

Welcome to the podcast for every kind of family — no exceptions! This isn’t a show for perfect people (spoiler alert: they don’t exist). This is a real-talk, grace-filled space where we get honest about the beautiful, messy, hilarious, and heartbreaking parts of life.

Your hosts, Rev. Nicole and Dr. Rev. Jevon Caldwell-Gross — two Indy-area pastors with three kids and one very active dog — are here to walk alongside you. We’ll chat about everything from parenting wins (and fails), marriage moments, career chaos, faith questions, grief, growth, and so much more.

Pull up a chair. You’re not alone. Let’s navigate life — together.