The Families First Podcast

What do you do when your child asks, “Why does God allow suffering?” or “Is Jesus the only way?” In this honest and hope-filled conversation, Pastor Curtis Dunlap helps parents navigate the hard questions kids are asking about faith, culture, and truth.

Pastor Curt serves as the Family Life and Teaching Pastor at Epiphany Fellowship Church in Philadelphia, where he leads ministries for men, marriages, and youth. He’s also the found...

As Father’s Day approaches, we’re sitting down with three incredible dads and ministry leaders—Bishop Daniel Felipe, Pastor Mark Wagnon, and Pastor Carlos Perez—for a real and refreshing conversation on what it means to father Generation Alpha. From digital distractions to shifting family dynamics, these leaders unpack the joys and challenges of raising kids in today’s world while staying grounded in biblical truth. Whether you’re ...

In this powerful episode, Arlene Pellicane shares insight on how families can raise emotionally healthy and spiritually strong children in a screen-saturated, AI-driven world. From her book Screen Kids (coauthored with Dr. Gary Chapman) to her wisdom as a mother and advocate for delayed tech, Arlene equips parents and grandparents with practical tools to help kids thrive in real life—not just the digital one.

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In this episode, Pastor Jonathan Olavarria interviews Dr. Brian Dembowczyk, who joins us to discuss practical ways families can cultivate a strong, enduring faith in their children. Tune in to discover how you can guide your children to stand confidently in their faith and stay rooted in God’s Word.

Dr. Brian Dembowczyk, associate publisher for Thomas Nelson Bibles and author of Family Discipleship That Works. Dr. Dembowczyk previo...

In this heartfelt episode of the Families First Podcast, hosts Jonathan Olavarria and Joy Hensley sit down with Melissa McDonald—a seasoned children's ministry leader, author, and foster parent. Melissa shares her faith, fostering, and discipleship journey, offering insights on how the church can better support vulnerable children and families. Whether you’re considering foster care, helping someone in the journey, or simply lookin...

When you are a kid, you imagine a day when you can do things your way and not like your parents want. However, as many of us have learned, there comes a day when you are thankful for the lessons your parents and grandparents taught. Listen in on this special podcast featuring Bishop Duke & Shirlene Stone and Bishop Scott & Brenda Gillum as they share the pieces of their faith heritage they received from their parents as wel...

Parenthood is an incredible journey filled with moments of joy, growth, and discovery. For Christian parents, the experience of nurturing girls in the faith is a significant assignment, offering blessings and unique complexities. We all share goals of instilling Christian values, navigating faith, fostering confidence, and nurturing a deep connection to God. 

On the second episode of the FAMILIES FIRST PODCAST, special guest Meliss...