Stuck in the Cry Room: Recent Episodes
Jo Holt & John Cox
Honest and humorous discussions about raising teens in the Catholic faith, navigated by Catholic scholar John Cox and family life expert Jo Holt.
As we say farewell to all our listeners we are offering one final episode about vulnerability. Both John and Jo have been vulnerable through the past two seasons, but you too can be vulnerable and it’s critical to evangelization and developing strong relationships. Use your vulnerability to bring you closer to Christ and each other. It’s not about winning…it’s about the journey.
As parents we want our kids to be successful. There’s a debate out there about how much we should be involved in the process and setting the bar of success. Do we let our kids find their own motivation and drive, or do we guide their steps? Jo and John have different approaches that they will share, especially how it connects to college. Listen in! If your currently discerning your next steps, we hope our conversation will help.
I’m sure most of you are prepared for Christmas. If not, or your desperate for gift ideas for a teen in your life, listen in! Jo provides some ideas for both young men and women, with of course a little unexpected humor from John.
Thanksgiving is a time of giving thanks to all those we know, and how they’ve positively impacted our lives. We can’t be too serious on this podcast, so why not thank our kids for the ways we’ve been challenged as parents. This list is meant to make you smile and bring a little humor to your day.
Holy and healthy dating…what parent could ask for anything more?? But what influence do we have as parents? The culture is sending messages to teens and young adults about marriage…you need to first be financially secure, you need to be a certain age, you need to settled in your career, etc. But if they follow the culture, they might be leaving God behind. This episode will discuss the arguments, principles and values so you can confidently guide your teens.
This episode is part 2 of our last conversation, which involved the value and importance of communication with our children. While our teens have free will to choose to listen and follow our guidance, it’s important to have developed a foundation of trust with them first. Once we’ve earned trust it is much easier to plant and root our relationship and communication going forward.
We also further our boundary discussion by discussing the influence of friends - why it’s important as parents that we model this for our kids, and how social media plays a critical role. Are our teens finding authentic friendships? What are a few practical things that parents can do to encourage their teens to use discernment in their search for friends?
Have you established boundaries in your family? Boundaries are healthy for all relationships, especially with our teens. John shares a story about recent events in his life that empowered him and his wife to define and follow through with boundaries. It’s sometimes hard to follow through on consequences, but doing it together can strengthen your bond as a couple and reclaim your family.
If you haven’t been there yet, brace yourself! When it’s time to teach our teens to drive it can be overwhelming and stressful. It’s also difficult to release your control of the pedals!! Listen in as Jo and John share their stories and advice.
We’re happy to be back! During our pause we decided to retarget future podcasts towards raising teens. We have a lot planned going forward, but this episode is dedicated to the value and importance of knowing theology of the body and sharing it with our teens so they can be strengthened against the pressures of society. There are so many connections we will make to the current culture and hope it will arm you and your future conversations.
Even if you do all the right things as a parent, your child can stray from the faith. This is especially true and frustrating for parents who work at or for the Church. Find comfort in Jo’s story, or listen in preparation of what could lie ahead for you as a parent.
Raising teens is challenging. They have minds of a child and consequences of an adult. These critical years as a parent can be exhausting. Societal pressures, desires of the teen and FOMO take over. Reflecting on the Prodigal Son in scripture can provide us some wisdom and guidance to be ready and to go forward.
In today’s episode we are talking about gratefulness. It is both humbling and healing to reflect on the many things that have made an impact on our lives. It is also an incredible experience to reflect on gratefulness in times of tribulation. Listen in to our conversation and reflect on your personal gratefulness today.
For many Catholics, June can be a challenging month. Gay pride messages are saturated everywhere you look. What do you say to your children? How do we respond? What is God calling us to do? Listen in as we review the Catechism and share practical tips and resources to help you navigate.
What a treat! Today we are joined by Fr John Ludanha, a missionary priest from Africa. Some often struggle with God’s Plan. It might not be something we wanted or desired, but in the end, we see the beautiful plan our Father in Heaven has orchestrated for us. As Fr John shares his story, you will identify the twists and turns he experienced. Perhaps you can relate? Listen in and share it with others who might be struggling today.
Today we are joined by a special guest - Dr. Susan Selner-Wright. She is helping us to navigate the sensitivity around gender ideology. Susan dissects the Christian viewpoint as well as provides information about a website resource we can all use called “Person and Identity”. So much content is packed into this segment. Listen in, and share it with others!
Today we’re talking about our mission of evangelization, which just like Mary Magdalene, is a personal response to your encounter with Jesus. Have you thought about your encounter and how it can be shared with others? And if you haven’t experienced God’s love, now is your time!! No matter your past, God loves you deeply. And after you experience it, genuinely share your zeal with others.
What does it mean to register at your parish? Why is it valuable? Both Jo and John have been asked this question before, especially during sacramental prep. It has also been a topic of discussion amongst millennials. During today’s episode we provide some insight and understanding on why you should register today!
Jo’s away, and so John took over the podcast! Today he has special guests - Paul and Colleen Lum Lung. They shared stories about their devotion to Divine Mercy, it’s significance and how families can celebrate it, as well as their memory of crashing Fr Michael Gaitley’s ordination party.
Do you pray the Stations of the Cross? How does the Lenten season help us to meditate on these prayers? In today’s episode we offer suggestions of where and how you can pray the Stations. Jo also shares her memories of Via Dolorosa in her last pilgrimage to Jerusalem, as well as a spiritual encounter during a recent hike in the mountains.
Welcome to our second season! We are in the season Lent, and it’s the perfect time to consider the sacrament of Confession, where we can be healed and can repair our relationship with God. Why do we as Catholics confess to a priest? What are the obstacles that challenge us? Today’s the day for you to encounter Christ’s mercy in Confession.
How many times as a parent do you use shortcuts? The alternative sounds exhausting and overwhelming, but it’s actually not. Venerable Fulton Sheen wrote a reflection on the three temptations of Jesus. In this episode we discuss how these temptations also affect parents. Some of us accept the temptation, which is actually a shortcut; we don’t want to have the hard conversations with our children. The easy button is not the solution. Join Jo and John for this great reflection in our Catholic faith.
The final two chapters of our book study is here! Today we discuss social influences. Those crowds and audiences we allow our children to hang with, as well as ourselves, can and will make an impact. How do we prevent those relationships from negativity affecting our family? How do we encourage our children to identify positive influences? This can be challenging, and Jo and John share their experiences with the topic. We are in this together! Let’s encourage one another!!
On today’s episode we talk about the dreaded accumulation of stuff! How much stuff is too much? How do we declutter and change our habits so our kids can learn from our example? Listen in! Jo and John have a lot to share.
Social media- What began as a means to update your family and friends who live far away from you, is now a high tech sticker system for instant gratification. Why do we use it? How does it help us to be a saintly person? How does it support our children’s needs? Jo and John share what they’ve experienced with its use and management, as well as how we can help our children to use it and computers safely at home.
In today’s episode we talk about cellphones, and the controversy surrounding them. When do we give one to our kids? How do we control their limits and protect them from danger? There’s so much to navigate in this difficult topic, let Jo and John (and Dr Ray Guarendi) guide you!
Part 2 of our book study continues with our discussion about being a 1 in 100 parent, and how that means we have to do what’s right, even if it is in opposition to the opinions of the majority. How does socialization affect our decision? What about homeschooling? Listen in as Jo and John help you to feel empowered in this anti-parent culture!
Even Jo and John can use some helpful guidance in raising their kids in a culture that wants to water down their parental authority and wisdom. Today we are beginning a book study with “Raising Upright Kids in an Upside-Down World”, a book by Dr. Ray Guarendi. Over the next few weeks we will discuss it’s contents and hope you will follow along with us. So pick up a book today and join us!!
New Year’s is a time for resolutions - an opportunity for us to start over and begin a new journey. For many of us, the resolution is short-lived. Eventually we begin lowering the bar and expectations so it becomes an easier goal to obtain, but maybe all we need is a little fortitude. Jo and John share their experiences and how your resolutions can be more successful!
Is loneliness a bad thing? For some, it is driven by FOMO (fear of missing out) and envy from what their peers are experiencing. For others, it is an absence of connecting to others through our senses. Jo and John break down this dilemma during Covid-19 and the holidays, and how we can use loneliness to further meditate with Christ since he also experienced loneliness.
In honor of the year of St. Joseph and in celebration of the feast of the Holy Family, we dedicate this episode to all of those who live ordinary, yet holy, lives. This is great timing as we approach Christmas in the next few days. Have you ever wondered why it was a manager in a stable that Jesus was born? Listen to Jo and John to find out!
Yes, COVID has forced us into a quiet Christmas away from the busyness of years past, but it is also a blessing! Time for us to slow down and be still. Time for us to reflect on Christ’s birth. Time for us to spend with our family, and get back to the true meaning of the season. Jo and John talk about some suggestions for how you can celebrate this year.
Yes, it’s a real fear. For some couples, they choose contraception to avoid becoming parents, and for those couples living together before marriage, it is preventing them from discerning the vocation of marriage. Why do we have a fear and how can we overcome it? Listen to Jo and John share their experiences and suggestions.
How many of you have wrestled for authority in your home? Jo openly shares her personal struggles of balancing power and authority in her marriage, and her realization that she’s been pushing her husband out of the way. Can you relate? How can scripture help us? Listen in as Jo and John weigh in and encourage you to be strengthened in God’s design and grace.
Thanksgiving is a great time to not only be thankful for our blessings, but to reminisce about our childhood. From making homemade stuffing to watching the annual parade to sharing the holiday with friends and family...we can all express gratitude about something. This is especially important this year, since many have struggled in one way or another.
During the last episode, we discussed grace from the sacrament of marriage. But why does our faith call us to follow a particular order, including marriage IN THE Church, rather than the beach or other locations? What does sex communicate to our spouse? Why is it good and necessary? Join Jo and John in today’s discussion.
Jo and John talk about the grace we receive from the sacrament of marriage. They both share their experiences, including marriage preparation, cohabitation, and the roles we take on as husband and wife. But more importantly, they explain why we need God and should encourage our loved ones to enter into the sacrament.
Jo and John discuss the feast of All Souls, and the importance of not only praying for our deceased loved ones, but keeping our children engaged in the faith so they can pray for us when we pass from this world. Do you doubt the existence of purgatory? There’s evidence from a museum that we can’t wait to share with you!
The election is just around the corner! As Catholics we are challenged with how to vote and how to share our viewpoints with others. Katalyst is a new nonprofit that was created to empower the laity in the public square. Executive Director Kelly Dore is in the studio to share her experiences, empower Christians to live first by faith, and provide non-partisan resources that we can utilize today!
Irritations are riding high as we struggle to adapt to more changes and adjustments to our schedule. For most parents, they are frustrated with school, homework and not receiving the same output for the work they put in. Jo and John discuss this matter and share how God provides us hope if we seek his counsel and guidance, and take it just one day at a time.
With much of our city still under restrictions, what does that mean for Halloween? Jo and John discuss ideas and new ways to enjoy this annual tradition, including honoring the Saints.
We love game night! For Jo and John, it has been a great opportunity to step outside of their crazy life and reconnect with the family. In today’s episode they share some of their favorite games and memories, and why you too should carve out time each week for a personal hobby or a family fun night!
Jo and John have a discussion about resolving conflict in their relationships, and how our environment and timing can make a big impact. USCCB’s initiative, For Your Marriage, published an article with suggestions. Jo and John review the list and share their perspectives.
In followup to last week’s episode, Jo and John discuss the impact that corporal works of mercy make on the family, and their community. Between both episodes, there’s a necessary dualism that takes place of the soul and the body. Consider our suggestions or others so we can bring Jesus to others.
What is the domestic church? How can we practice and embody it in our homes? Jo and John begin a two-part series to explain this idea. Today’s episode talks about the spiritual works of mercy, and how they can help us as families to model Christ’s love to the world!
There’s a difference between friendships before and after marriage. Things quickly begin to change. What’s to be expected and how do you navigate the waters are all a part of our conversations this episode. Listen in and if you want to share your feedback check out our Facebook and Instagram page!
For some of us, we will hold these memories with us FOREVER!! We’re talking potty training. If you haven’t done it yet, this episode will provide some tips and resources. If you’ve “been there, done that”, listen in and laugh along! Jo, John and Mandy will share their stories.
Is it really? Well, if we’re talking about how it feels to prioritize time for yourself when you’re busy carrying and providing for your family...then, YES! Jo and John have a honest conversation about time and terminology, and how strategic pause and silence can rejuvenate your soul.
Jo and John catch up with each other and share information about an upcoming mental health conference in their area. Jo’s daughter, Anna, also stops by to talk about her journey with suicide ideation, and share some valuable advice.
Jo is away. In substitution, Mandy Cox joins her husband, John, in the studio to discuss their experience with teaching sexuality to their children. They also share their childhood stories, as well as practical resources for Catholic families. Check out www.tobet.org!
In today’s episode we explain the story behind our podcast name. John and Jo also share their personal experiences of the cry room and the challenges that today’s young families face during Mass.
Today’s teens are experiencing so many struggles. Many are carrying the burdens of mental health, school and social pressures without the help of Jesus. Along with our special guest, Jo and John discuss a great book for teens and their parents to help them win it all for Christ!
Summer is a great time to clean up, get organized and be a part of transformations. Why not use a book to help you accomplish that in your life, and your faith? We are not talking about self-help books, although that has been Jo's go-to for years; we're talking about a spiritual book! Today, John shares his favorite book and why it’s a MUST READ for everyone!
What are sacramental and why are they important to us as Catholics. How do sacramental lead us to a closer encounter with Christ in the Sacraments?
The summer is half over, and our teenagers need a little more guidance for activities and outlets for socialization. COVID-19 isn’t making it easier. Jo and John discuss their challenges and share how parents can use Proverbs to provide continued instruction and guidance.
A valid question most of us ponder is how do we get more youth involved in the Church? Father CJ returns and shares insightful considerations to help us create a more relational environment. He explains his perspective that many treat our faith like a business - something to be sold to others as a good, rather than an encounter to share. Listen in and be a part of our discussion!
As a parent have you ever made a quick decision, and then a few minutes or HOURS later you realized “whoa, whoa, whoa, what did I just do?” Jo and John discuss how the virtue of prudence can help us to make good decisions, and how fear can camouflage itself much differently.
A fun and candid conversation with newly ordained priest, Father CJ Mast. From mountain accident to homily development, Jo and John uncover his journey and plans for his first year as a priest.
In some way or another, we’ve all been affected by the recent injustice of George Floyd. We are conflicted with our response. Jo and John have a conversation with Deacon Dave Simonton to unpack Catholic teaching and our response to the issue.
Jo and John interview John Overby, a recent convert to Catholicism. We hear about his journey, and how looking back it appears that God was leading him back home.
It’s the Easter season, and many of us are still waiting to receive Jesus. Jo and John discuss this longing and offer parallels to the journey of the disciples.
Jo and John sit down with Monsignor Tom Fryar, pastor of St. Thomas More, to discuss his role as a spiritual father, and how he started his first job as a lawn boy.
Jo and special guest, Mandy Cox, celebrate motherhood, and share the gift of grace that made all the difference.
Jo and John discuss how Zoom has impacted them and their families over the past several weeks. They get vulnerable and share their personal discoveries and the opportunities for improvement.
Many of us are too busy and constantly distracted, and sometimes we are left with despair. We multitask, work excessive hours, and at the end of the day we are still left with a lack of accomplishment. What we may be fighting is the sloth. Listen in as we unpack acedia, how to identify it, and how we can overcome it.
Acts of mercy allow us to show others how much we love them, as well as to embrace God's infinite love for us. John and Jo discuss how suffering and sacrifice are connected to mercy, and how the Sacrament of Reconciliation can help you experience the power of love.
It's springtime and many of us are sprucing up our yards and homes, but it is also a time for renewal of our souls. We are talking about love and hope, and how you can find that in Christ and the Resurrection.
Why do we attend Mass on Sunday? How do we celebrate the Lord’s Day? Jo and John will tackle this issue, and how to model it in the home for your family.
The dinner table is a place of community for the family and can help us practice hospitality and service. Let’s encourage ourselves, family and friends, to bring it back as an essential element of our life as a family!
Now that we have established clear expectations in the home, let’s turn our attention towards chores and distributing responsibility in the home. The virtue of charity will be an important ingredient for success.
No, it’s not August. We’re talking about the first week of homeschooling during the pandemic. New routines, new expectations, new framework, and new frustrations!
In our first episode, we will discuss the current challenges with Coronavirus, as well as the support we can receive from St. Joseph.