Podcast
Mama Bear Apologetics
Hosted by Hillary Morgan Ferrer & Amy Davison · EN
Mama Bear Apologetics is a podcast for mothers of biological, adopted, or spiritual children who want to learn about how to defend the Christian faith, help give their children reasons for faith, and understand the worldviews that challenge Christian faith in the first place.
38episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Mama Bear Movie Minute: Sheep Detectives
4d ago00:16:33Tap to summarizeIn this Movie Minute episode, Alexa and Anja discuss Sheep Detectives, a charming mystery centered around a flock of sheep investigating the murder of their beloved shepherd, George. While the film is humorous and beautifully filmed, the hosts highlight its deeper themes of justice, grief, belonging, critical thinking, and biblical imagery.The conversation explores how George's relationship with his sheep mirrors God's relationship with His people, drawing connections to Scripture about the Good Shepherd and God's intimate knowledge of His children. They also examine the film's handling of memory, death, and justice, discussing where its worldview aligns with biblical truth and where it reflects more naturalistic ideas.The hosts especially appreciate the movie's emphasis on remembering injustice rather than ignoring it, encouraging children to think critically about difficult topics instead of being shielded from them. They also unpack the "winter sheep" storyline as a powerful illustration of loving those who are rejected or marginalized, much like Jesus did throughout His ministry.Overall, Alexa and Anja recommend using the film as a springboard for conversations about God's character, biblical justice, grief, inclusion, metaphors used throughout Scripture, and how Christians should think critically about the messages presented in media.In This Episode00:00 – Introduction and movie synopsis01:20 – First impressions and why the film is so charming02:06 – Shepherd imagery and biblical connections03:03 – Humorous discussion about "God is a shepherd..."03:43 – Justice and remembering wrongdoing05:00 – Biblical justice versus cultural ideas of justice06:00 – Teaching children about suffering and evil07:18 – Naturalism, death, and the afterlife09:08 – Remembering loved ones and discussing heaven10:32 – The "winter sheep" and loving the rejected12:20 – Belonging and accepting outsiders13:18 – Critical thinking and redemption14:01 – Family discussion ideas15:00 – Teaching children about biblical metaphors
Transcribe →Summer Rewind: Understanding Deconstruction. A Conversation with Alisa Childers
6d ago00:53:23Tap to summarizeAmy welcomes Christian apologist Alisa Childers for an in-depth discussion on the growing phenomenon of "deconstruction." Alisa shares her personal testimony of experiencing a faith crisis after attending a church led by an agnostic pastor, explaining how studying apologetics ultimately strengthened rather than destroyed her faith.The conversation carefully distinguishes between genuine biblical questioning and what Alisa defines as modern deconstruction. According to her research, deconstruction is not simply wrestling with doubts but is fundamentally a self-directed process that leads away from historic Christianity. She explains that many Christians mistakenly use the term to describe healthy examination of beliefs, when a better biblical model is one of reformation—bringing one's beliefs into closer alignment with Scripture.Amy and Alisa examine the philosophical roots of deconstruction, connecting it to postmodernism, subjective truth, and Marxist concepts of oppression versus oppressor. They discuss how feelings often become the ultimate authority instead of objective truth, and how social media has accelerated the movement through online communities that reinforce skepticism toward Christianity.The discussion turns toward parenting, emphasizing that children should be taught to think critically rather than simply shielded from competing worldviews. Parents are encouraged to introduce difficult ideas within the safety of the home, helping children evaluate truth claims, ask thoughtful questions, recognize propaganda, and respond with both discernment and compassion.Main Points CoveredWhat Deconstruction Is (and Isn't)The Worldview Behind DeconstructionReformation Instead of DeconstructionHelping Kids Navigate DeconstructionResources MentionedAnother Gospel by Alisa ChildersThe Deconstruction of Christianity by Alisa ChildersThe Deconstructionist Playbook by Crystal Cheatham and Theresa TaThe Unshaken Faith PodcastScriptures Mentioned1 Thessalonians 5:211 John 4:1Genesis 1:27Ephesians 5:25Thanks to Our SponsorsAir DoctorAirDoctor comes with a 30-day money back guarantee so if you don’t love it, just send it back for a refund, minus shipping! Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code MBA and you’ll receive up to $300 off air purifiers! Exclusive to podcast customers, you will also receive a free 3 year warranty on any unit, which is an additional $84 value! Lock this special offer by using our promo code MBA at checkout!Cozy EarthHead to cozyearth.com and use my code MBA for an exclusive 20% off. And if you see a post-purchase survey, mention that you heard about Cozy Earth right here!More from Mama BearCheck out our websiteBuy the Mama Bear Apologetics book (affiliate link)Join Our Email ListHave Us Speak at Your EventFollow us on social media FacebookXInstagramWant to support our ministry?Donate Here—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co
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Mama Bear Movie Minute: Moana
2w ago00:41:15Tap to summarizeIn this Mama Bear Movie Minute, Hillary, Alexa, and Anja discuss Disney's live-action Moana through a biblical worldview. While noting that the live-action version closely follows the animated film, they explore how the story contains echoes of biblical truth alongside significant worldview differences.The hosts highlight themes such as creation longing for redemption, God's calling on our lives, repentance, contentment, and using our gifts for God's glory rather than personal recognition. They point out that many cultures recognize that something is fundamentally wrong with the world—a truth that aligns with the biblical account of the Fall.The discussion also addresses several worldview concerns, including ancestor spirits, reincarnation, the worship of nature, demigods, the concept of discovering one's "true self," and following one's inner voice. The hosts contrast these ideas with Scripture, emphasizing that identity is found in Christ rather than within ourselves and that creation should never be worshiped in place of the Creator.Throughout the episode, the hosts encourage parents to use Moana as a conversation starter with their children, helping them discern biblical truth from cultural messages while appreciating the film's storytelling, humor, and positive themes.In This Episode00:28 – Overview of the live-action Moana04:37 – Initial insights and symbolism05:00 – Polynesian culture, Maui legends, and historical background06:31 – Fairy tales and biblical themes08:06 – Preparing children for hardship instead of sheltering them11:25 – Finding joy and contentment where God has placed you13:17 – Maui, pride, repentance, and worship17:07 – God's calling versus temptation24:00 – The "true self" and identity in Christ27:27 – Tabula rasa versus biblical telos29:42 – Hawaiian mythology, Pele, and worship of creation34:30 – Ancestor spirits, reincarnation, and biblical hope after death36:32 – Family discussion questions after watching Moana39:20 – Final reflections and closing thoughtsMore from Mama BearCheck out our websiteBuy the Mama Bear Apologetics book (affiliate link)Join Our Email ListHave Us Speak at Your EventFollow us on social media FacebookXInstagramWant to support our ministry?Donate Here
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Mama Bear Movie Minute: Young Washington
3w ago00:32:43Tap to summarizeIn this Mama Bear Movie Minute, Hilary, Alexa, and Anja discuss Young Washington, a historical drama chronicling George Washington's early military career during the French and Indian War. Rather than portraying Washington as an untouchable hero, the film highlights his youthful ambition, repeated failures, and gradual transformation into a servant leader.The hosts appreciate that the movie avoids romanticizing history, acknowledging difficult subjects like Native American land disputes and slavery while still presenting an inspiring account of perseverance, humility, leadership, and God's providence. Throughout the discussion they connect Washington's character development to biblical principles about discipline, repentance, humility, servant leadership, endurance, and learning from failure. They conclude by encouraging parents to use the film as a conversation starter with their children about leadership, courage, mistakes, and God's sovereign purposes.In This Episode00:00 – Introduction and overview of Young Washington04:23 – Washington's ambition, social status, and the American Dream05:41 – Learning from failure, correction, and humility10:19 – Servant leadership, repentance, and character growth16:10 – Historical accuracy and difficult themes in America's founding19:15 – Native American history, greed, and the cost of expansion22:32 – Slavery, sacrifice, and leadership through adversity25:20 – Perseverance, God's providence, and enduring trials26:22 – Family discussion questions and biblical applications32:03 – Final recommendation and closing thoughtsMore from Mama BearCheck out our websiteBuy the Mama Bear Apologetics book (affiliate link)Join Our Email ListHave Us Speak at Your EventFollow us on social media FacebookXInstagramWant to support our ministry?Donate Here
Transcribe →Summer Rewind: Linguistic Theft - What it is and Why it Matters
3w ago00:34:00Tap to summarizeAs part of our Summer Rewind Series, Hillary and Amy revisit the concept of linguistic theft—the intentional redefining of familiar words and virtues to persuade people to accept ideas they might otherwise reject. They argue that while Christians often teach biblical truths and virtues, today's culture increasingly redefines words like love, justice, equality, violence, and tolerance, making it difficult for believers—especially children—to recognize when biblical concepts have been replaced with counterfeit meanings.Using 2 Corinthians 11, they explain that Satan often works through deception rather than obvious evil, disguising false ideas as righteousness. The hosts distinguish between the natural evolution of language and intentional linguistic manipulation, outlining a three-step process they believe is commonly used to shift public opinion. They conclude by encouraging parents to teach their children not only biblical vocabulary but also biblical definitions so they can discern truth from cultural counterfeits. Main Points CoveredUnderstanding Linguistic TheftBiblical Discernment and Spiritual DeceptionModern Examples of Redefined LanguageHow Linguistic Theft Influences CultureEquipping Children to Stand FirmResources MentionedMama Bear ApologeticsRules for Radicals: A Pragmatic Primer for Realistic Radicals by Saul AlinskyUnjust: Social Justice and the Unmaking of America by Noah RothmanScriptures Mentioned2 Corinthians 11:3–62 Corinthians 11:12–15Romans 12:1–2Romans 1Galatians 5:22–23Matthew 7:15Thanks to Our SponsorsAir DoctorAirDoctor comes with a 30-day money back guarantee so if you don’t love it, just send it back for a refund, minus shipping! Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code MBA and you’ll receive up to $300 off air purifiers! Exclusive to podcast customers, you will also receive a free 3 year warranty on any unit, which is an additional $84 value! Lock this special offer by using our promo code MBA at checkout!Cozy EarthHead to cozyearth.com and use my code MBA for an exclusive 20% off. And if you see a post-purchase survey, mention that you heard about Cozy Earth right here!More from Mama BearCheck out our websiteBuy the Mama Bear Apologetics book (affiliate link)Join Our Email ListHave Us Speak at Your EventFollow us on social media FacebookXInstagramWant to support our ministry?Donate Here—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co
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Mama Bear Movie Minute: Minions and Monsters
4w ago00:36:10Tap to summarizeIn this Movie Minute, Hillary, Alexa, and Anja discuss Minions and Monsters, exploring both its entertaining elements and the worldview questions it raises. While the hosts praise the film's humor, historical film references, charming moments, and opportunities for family discussion, they also examine concerns about slapstick humor, crude jokes, fast-paced children's entertainment, and especially the movie's extensive use of occult imagery.Throughout the discussion, the hosts encourage parents to move beyond simply deciding whether to watch a movie. Instead, they recommend using films as conversation starters to help children think critically about morality, humor, discernment, and biblical truth. They conclude that the movie can provide valuable discussion opportunities for families—particularly regarding the difference between being curious about occult practices versus understanding why Scripture warns against them.In This Episode00:03:00 – First impressions: pacing, humor, positive representation, and classic film references00:08:00 – Cultural references, biblical literacy, and why understanding source material matters00:09:44 – The Minions' surprising moral code and discussion of objective morality00:14:44 – Concerns about crude humor, slapstick, and sexualized jokes in children's entertainment00:17:54 – How humor can normalize inappropriate behavior and why respecting childhood matters00:21:40 – Occult themes, spell books, and distinguishing healthy discernment from unhealthy fear00:24:26 – Using movies as opportunities to discuss the occult with children, including The Smurfs comparison00:29:10 – The Goomie character, H.P. Lovecraft inspiration, and modern occult symbolism00:31:20 – Practical family discussion questions, final parenting takeaways, and recommendation for viewersMore from Mama BearCheck out our websiteBuy the Mama Bear Apologetics book (affiliate link)Join Our Email ListHave Us Speak at Your EventFollow us on social media FacebookXInstagramWant to support our ministry?Donate Here
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Mama Bear Movie Minute: Toy Story 5
Jun 2500:43:47Tap to summarizeIn this Mama Bear Movie Minute, Hillary, Alexa, and Anja review Toy Story 5 and discuss why they believe Disney recaptured the heart of the original franchise. Rather than focusing on spectacle, the film explores the value of childhood imagination, the dangers of technology replacing play, and the importance of meaningful friendships. The hosts praise the movie for presenting a balanced view of technology—acknowledging its benefits while warning against allowing devices to dominate childhood.The conversation goes beyond a movie review, using the film as a springboard for biblical worldview discussions. The hosts explore themes like humanity's God-given purpose (teleology), inherent value, identity, seasons of life, free play, online bullying, and healthy technology boundaries. They also discuss how parents can use the movie to have meaningful conversations with their children about purpose, friendship, creativity, and faithfully navigating a technology-saturated culture. Overall, they highly recommend Toy Story 5 as a family film that encourages both laughter and discipleship conversations.Chapters06:26 Toy Story 5 Review & Story Overview13:00 Purpose, Identity, and Our God-Given Design16:42 Parenting Through Changing Seasons20:26 Why Free Play Matters More Than Ever25:12 Finding Your People and Resisting FOMO28:46 One Caution for Christian Parents37:07 Essential Conversations to Have with Your Kids41:00 Final Thoughts: A Strong Recommendation for FamiliesMore from Mama BearCheck out our websiteBuy the Mama Bear Apologetics book (affiliate link)Join Our Email ListHave Us Speak at Your EventFollow us on social media FacebookXInstagramWant to support our ministry?Donate Here
Transcribe →Summer Rewind: Digitally Detoxing Your Kids for Clearer Thinking with Molly DeFrank
Jun 2300:31:37Tap to summarizeAs we head into the summer months, we'll be revisiting some of our most popular and impactful Mama Bear Apologetics podcast episodes. These conversations continue to offer timely wisdom and practical encouragement for parents navigating today's cultural challenges. In this replay episode, Amy sits down with Molly DeFrank to discuss one of the most pressing issues facing families today: technology's influence on our children and how a digital detox can help restore healthier relationships, clearer thinking, and stronger family connections.In todays episode, Amy interviews author and parenting advocate Molly DeFrank about the growing influence of screens, social media, and digital entertainment on children and families. Molly shares how her own family's struggles with technology led her to implement a two-week digital detox that dramatically changed her children's behavior, attitudes, and relationships.The discussion explores the science behind screen addiction, dopamine-driven technology, the impact of smartphones and social media on children's mental health, and the responsibility parents have as the primary influencers of their children. Rather than promoting fear or a complete rejection of technology, Molly encourages parents to reclaim their God-given role as shepherds of their children by helping them develop digital wisdom and discernment. The episode emphasizes that technology should serve families—not enslave them—and provides practical strategies for implementing a family digital detox and establishing healthier long-term habits.Main Points CoveredThe Impact of Screen Time on Children and TeensThe 14-Day Digital DetoxTechnology, Dopamine, and Mental HealthParenting with Confidence in a Digital WorldPractical Strategies for Long-Term Digital Health Resources MentionedDigital Detox — Molly DeFrankMolly DeFrank Official WebsiteThe Social DilemmaGabb PhoneLight PhoneBark PhoneTin Can PhoneScriptures MentionedActs 17:26Galatians 5:22–23Proverbs 22:6Thanks to Our SponsorsAquaTruGo to AquaTru.com now for 20% off your purifier using promo code MBA. AquaTru even comes with a 30-day best-tasting water guarantee.More from Mama BearCheck out our websiteBuy the Mama Bear Apologetics book (affiliate link)Join Our Email ListHave Us Speak at Your EventFollow us on social media FacebookXInstagramWant to support our ministry?Donate Here—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co
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Mama Bear Movie Minute: Remarkably Bright Creatures
Jun 1800:16:50Tap to summarizeShow NotesIn this Mama Bear Movie Minute, we discuss Remarkably Bright Creatures—a touching story about grief, purpose, friendship, and one unforgettable octopus. We explore the beautiful relationship between Tova, Cameron, and Marcellus, discuss themes of intergenerational mentorship, serving others, finding identity, and embracing the season God has placed us in. We also highlight a few worldview concerns, including the normalization of drug use in media, and share conversation starters to help families engage thoughtfully with the film.In this Episode01:08 Meet Tova, Cameron & Marcellus04:00 Grief, Identity & the Search for Purpose07:00 The Beauty of Intergenerational Friendship08:19 Serving Others & the Message of Philippians 209:34 Concerns About Drug Normalization in Media11:16 What Creation Reveals About the Creator14:27 Conversation Starters for Families & Final TakeawaysMore from Mama BearCheck out our websiteBuy the Mama Bear Apologetics book (affiliate link)Join Our Email ListHave Us Speak at Your EventFollow us on social media FacebookXInstagramWant to support our ministry?Donate Here
Transcribe →Episode 153. Living Faith Boldly as a Father and Man of Christ
Jun 1600:49:56Tap to summarizeIn this Father’s Day-focused episode, Amy welcomes her husband, Michael Davison, to discuss the restoration of biblical manhood, fatherhood, and discipleship in the home. Michael shares how a coworker’s assumption that he was an atheist became a profound wake-up call, revealing that he had compartmentalized his faith and failed to visibly represent Christ in his workplace.The conversation explores the dangers of separating faith from everyday life, the cultural decline of male spiritual leadership, and the need for Christian men to reclaim their God-given role as disciples and leaders within their families. Michael explains how leaning into spiritual disciplines, accountability, and intentional discipleship transformed both his personal walk with Christ and the lives of those around him. The discussion also addresses why many men avoid traditional men’s ministry programs and offers practical insights into building effective men’s groups that challenge, encourage, and equip men for spiritual leadership.Main Points CoveredThe importance of spiritual leadership in the homeThe role of accountability in spiritual growthWhy many men avoid traditional men’s ministriesSpiritual disciplines for fathersThe influence of fathers and mothers on children’s faithResources MentionedThe Toxic War on Masculinity by Nancy PearceyDeep Discipleship by JT EnglishStand Firm and Act Like Men by Joby MartinThe Awe of God by John BevereScriptures MentionedPsalm 139:23–241 Thessalonians 5 More from Mama BearCheck out our websiteBuy the Mama Bear Apologetics book (affiliate link)Join Our Email ListHave Us Speak at Your EventFollow us on social media FacebookXInstagramWant to support our ministry?Donate Here—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co
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