Focus on the Family Australia artwork

Focus on the Family Australia

610 episodes - English - Latest episode: over 1 year ago - ★★★★★ - 5 ratings

Focus on the Family radio programs are played on over 550 stations around Australia with an estimated 4.5 million listeners each month. While the content is diverse the purpose and hope for each program is the same – to help your family thrive.

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Episodes

Men and Relationships: What works and what doesn't II

October 18, 2021 14:00 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MB

One reason for communication problems in your marriage could be because you’re using the wrong tools! Dr's Greg and Michael Smalley describe how open-sharing, patient-listening, and a win-win approach can transform your marriage! Book by guests: Men's Relational Toolbox.

Men and Relationships: What works and what doesn't I

October 17, 2021 14:00 - 25 minutes - 23 MB

One reason for communication problems in your marriage could be because you’re using the wrong tools! Dr's Greg and Michael Smalley describe how open-sharing, patient-listening, and a win-win approach can transform your marriage! Book by guests: Men's Relational Toolbox.

Finding hope for your desperate marriage II

October 11, 2021 14:00 - 24 minutes - 22.9 MB

No marriage is beyond hope and restoration, no matter how desperate the situation. Dr. Gary Chapman offers hope and healing for unhappy marriages. He examines different situations, from workaholism and depression to control, addiction, and abuse. With God’s help, you can have a strong, peaceful marriage. Book by spouse: Loving your spouse when you feel like walking away

Finding hope for your desperate marriage I

October 10, 2021 14:00 - 25 minutes - 23.1 MB

No marriage is beyond hope and restoration, no matter how desperate the situation. Dr. Gary Chapman offers hope and healing for unhappy marriages. He examines different situations, from workaholism and depression to control, addiction, and abuse. With God’s help, you can have a strong, peaceful marriage. Book by guest: Loving your spouse when you feel like walking away

The Royal Hood II

October 08, 2021 14:00 - 25 minutes - 47.5 MB

Sandy’s parents escaped from Iraq and were refugees in Turkey, then she met, fell in love and married Eric, from Ghana, here in Australia who also had his own journey. Eric is the founder of The Royal Hood, a mentoring program for boys. This is part 2 of their story.

Learning about God's Mercy

October 06, 2021 14:00 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MB

Do you really believe that God is in control of your life? Radio host Brant Hansen will challenge your thinking about what God expects from each of us, and how much He cares about people who would be considered the poorest of the poor. It’s a message of encouragement about a grace-filled God. Book by guest: Blessed are the Misfits.

Holding on to grace during an unplanned pregnancy

October 05, 2021 14:00 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MB

**Program is not suitable for young listeners. She had big dreams of becoming a famous singer. But when she experienced an unplanned pregnancy, she felt her life spiralling out of control. Kourtney Chapman tells her “almost- abortion” story, and explains how God used her baby to change her entire family for the better.

Taking steps to live out your dreams

October 04, 2021 14:00 - 25 minutes - 23 MB

How might your life be different if you took a few minutes every day to focus on your goals and dreams? …wife, mum and avid dreamer Kathi Lipp encourages you to live out the desires God has placed in your heart. Embrace the life you have while living the life you’ve always wanted. Book by Guest: The Me Project: 21 Days to Living the Life You've Always Wanted.

Becoming a gospel-driven Mum

October 03, 2021 14:00 - 25 minutes - 23 MB

What your children need most from you is a mum that loves Jesus. Brooke McGlothlin brings a reminder that when you feel like a failure as a mum, God loves you, He sees you, and you are enough in Jesus Christ. Book by guest: Praying Mom.

The Royal Hood I

October 01, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 46.7 MB

A victim of racial bullying in primary school, being expelled in high school, becoming a gang member, dealing with depression and anger issues, he was labelled “at risk.” Two decades later, Eric is now the founder of The Royal Hood, a Christian mentoring program for young people. We’ll hear some of his story and his ministry. Book by guest: Let There Be Darkness.

The beautiful struggle to forgive

September 29, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 23 MB

As he grew up, his anger towards his alcoholic father turned into hatred. Hear Jason Romano’s incredible story of how a football game, a struggle with infertility, and a phone call changed his life, leading him to extend true forgiveness to his dad—despite never hearing the words “I’m sorry.” An inspiring story about healing from a chaotic childhood. Book by guest: Live to forgive

Finding hope and joy while single parenting

September 26, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MB

She thought her life was going great—until one day, without warning, her husband suddenly left. Shocked and reeling, Linda Jacobs realised she would now have to start raising her two kids as a single parent. Linda comes alongside other single parents to offer hope, encouragement, and practical tips. Book by guest: The Single Parent.

Mental Health Continuum

September 24, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 47.3 MB

Just as diabetes, asthma and heart disease can have negative effects on the health of our bodies, so too can mental health issues. Joining us today is Psychologist, Christine D’Souza, who has recently been employed by Beyond Blue as a counsellor working on the Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Line. She will be unpacking this important issue and address how we can do our best to keep optimal mental health.

Praying and stepping out in faith

September 21, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MB

Do you think of prayer as being something passive, or active? Pastor Mark Batterson explains how prayer should really be the FIRST thing you do before taking a step of faith. He’ll share some amazing stories of ‘active prayers.’ Book by guest: The Circle Maker

Does living together help or hurt?

September 20, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MB

Living together before marriage—it’s a common practice today. So how can you as a parent navigate this sensitive issue with your young adult? Pastor Dave Gudgel unpacks how to discuss God’s design for marriage, as he addresses cohabitation with tact, persuasiveness, and most importantly, love. Book by guest: Before you live together.

Keeping hope and faith during childhood cancer

September 19, 2021 15:00 - 24 minutes - 22.9 MB

They noticed their 6 year old son wasn’t feeling well, and a doctor’s visit confirmed a parent’s worst nightmare: cancer. Turner and Tara Simkins share a powerful story about walking their son through cancer, and how they kept trusting God, even when the doctors said there were no more options. Book by guest: Possibilities: Perseverance, Grace and the Story of One Family's Life with Leukemia.

Experiencing God's Healing Hand

September 16, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MB

Have you ever experienced a miraculous healing? Either your own, or a friend’s? You’ll hear a miracle caught on tape! Join us to hear the very moment when Pastor Duane Miller’s throat was healed, after three years of only being able to speak in a whisper. Book by guest: Out of the Silence.

Ditching the Cranky Monster Mum

September 14, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MB

In those difficult parenting moments, it’s easy to lose your temper and make a bad situation with your kids even worse. Becky Kopitzke will help you ditch the parenting monster that can sometimes rear its ugly head, so you can embrace kinder, gentler responses with your children and have a more peaceful home. Book by guest: The Cranky Mom Fix.

Fostering Hope II

September 10, 2021 15:00 - 23 minutes - 43.3 MB

We only get one shot at being a child and ideally, we are nurtured by our biological mother and father. Unfortunately for many children today, this is no longer a possible or safe option. Our guest today is Mary Dickens from Fostering Hope in Hobart, an organisation that encourages the church to see foster and kinship care as local mission, and believe the church is ideally placed to meet this need, both in finding carers and also supporting these carers and others in their community.

Valuing marriage in a culture that doesn't

September 09, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 23.1 MB

When one couple announced their engagement, their friends and family rolled their eyes and told them, “Marriage isn’t worth the trouble.” Hear why that couple got married anyway and went on to create a unique and thriving marriage ministry. Guests Lamar and Ronnie Tyler will give you hope for your own marriage and family.

Guiding your teen into adulthood II

September 08, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MB

Dr. Ken Wilgus returns to examine more common mistakes parents make with teens—like lecturing, shielding them from consequences, and not giving them the freedom to make their own decisions. Discover why your teenager won’t mature until you give up control. Book by guest: Feeding the mouth that bites you.

Guiding your teen into adulthood I

September 07, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MB

It’s time to let your children grow up by giving up control of their lives! With Dr. Kenneth Wilgus, Jessica Pfeiffer and Ashley Parrish, we’ll examine “planned emancipation,” where parents let teenagers take charge of their rooms, their friends, their music, and more. Learn how to guide your kids, rather than fight with them over the rules! Book by Dr Kenneth Wilgus: Feeding the mouth that bites you.

Flourishing in your Marriage II

September 06, 2021 15:00 - 24 minutes - 22.9 MB

You may have a solid marriage, but you know that it doesn’t just happen. It takes work! Todd and Karen Ehman encourage you to work through those marital issues that drive you crazy and to stay committed to loving & serving each other. Book by guests: Keep Showing Up.

Flourishing in your Marriage I

September 05, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 23 MB

You may have a solid marriage, but you know that it doesn’t just happen. It takes work! Todd and Karen Ehman encourage you to work through those marital issues that drive you crazy and to stay committed to loving & serving each other. Book by Guest: Keep Showing Up.

Fostering Hope I

September 03, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 46.5 MB

We only get one shot at being a child and ideally, we are nurtured by our biological mother and father. Unfortunately for many children today, this is no longer a possible or safe option. Our guest today is Mary Dickens from Fostering Hope in Hobart, an organisation that encourages the church to see foster and kinship care as local mission, and believe the church is ideally placed to meet this need, both in finding carers and also supporting these carers and others in their community.

Identifying triggers in your marriage II

September 01, 2021 15:00 - 24 minutes - 22.9 MB

They were both convinced they had married the wrong person. Amber and Guy Lia faced so many tensions and personality clashes that they were tempted to give up on their relationship. The Lias share what caused rifts in their marriage, how they began to address the issues and how they found true peace. Book by guests: Marriage Triggers.

Identifying triggers in your marriage I

August 31, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MB

They were both convinced they had married the wrong person. Amber and Guy Lia faced so many tensions and personality clashes that they were tempted to give up on their relationship. The Lias share what caused rifts in their marriage, how they began to address the issues and how they found true peace. Book by guests: Marriage Triggers.

Your Children Are a Mission Field

August 30, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 23 MB

A lot of mums feel frustrated by the often-uninspiring work of raising children. But you have one of the biggest responsibilities in the world! Shontell Brewer encourages you to do what you CAN, not what you CAN’T, as you build a legacy of serving Christ through your children. Book by guest: Missionary Mom.

Core Identity II

August 27, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 47.3 MB

“Core Identity” and self esteem is created in our family of origin and is the underlying issue for most mental health issues and couple relationship breakdown today. Bill Van Schie, Director of “Abundant Life Counselling” and on staff at Mount Evelyn Counselling in Victoria where he specialises in Couple Therapy, Self Esteem, depression recovery and trauma processing. We will be discussing the development of self-esteem recovery for those who are limited with low self-esteem and how our Chris...

Embracing your role as a spouse

August 26, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 23 MB

As a spouse, you have three roles to play—a friend, a partner, and a lover. Kevin Thompson explores those different roles—and challenges you to live them out by investing emotionally, mentally and physically in your relationship. You’ll also learn five keys to save your marriage! Book by guest: Friends, Partners and Lovers.

The Strength of a Man

August 26, 2021 05:07 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MB

What makes a REAL man? Dr. Harold Davis shares a passionate message, encouraging fathers to build a lasting legacy of strength and character to pass on to their children. Learn lessons from the life of Gideon and find hope for the next generation! Book by guest: Championship Fathering

Making your marriage a picture of the gospel II

August 24, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 23 MB

Rather than fight with your spouse, you need to fight for your marriage! Pastor D.A. and Elicia Horton describe how they’ve worked through financial challenges, ways to navigate conflict, and the value of spiritual discipleship. Book by guests: Enter the ring.

Making your marriage a picture of the gospel I

August 23, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 23 MB

They got into a six hour screaming match two months before their wedding! Pastor D.A. and Elicia Horton had a lot of emotional baggage, but through commitment and believing in God’s Word, their constant conflict began to transform into something beautiful. It’s a miracle marriage story. Book by guests: Enter the ring.

Embracing an abundant life

August 22, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 23 MB

With God’s help, you can find beauty, even in the midst of brokenness. Ann Voskamp shares about the loss of her sister in childhood and her spiritual journey to answer this question: What do you do with a broken heart? She’ll help you reach out to God and love others. Book by guest: The Broken Way

Core Identity I

August 20, 2021 15:00 - 26 minutes - 48.1 MB

“Core Identity” and self esteem is created in our family of origin and is the underlying issue for most mental health issues and couple relationship breakdown today. Bill Van Schie, Director of “Abundant Life Counselling” and on staff at Mount Evelyn Counselling in Victoria where he specialises in Couple Therapy, Self Esteem, depression recovery and trauma processing. We will be discussing the development of self-esteem recovery for those who are limited with low self-esteem and how our Chris...

Navigating a toxic culture with your daughter II

August 11, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MB

**Note: Program is not appropriate for younger listeners.** As a paediatrician, Dr. Meg Meeker has learned a lot from the thousands of girls who’ve come through her office. She’ll address social pressures to grow up too fast and other challenges that girls face in a toxic culture. You’ll be encouraged to listen to your daughter’s heart and to develop her faith and prepare her for adulthood. Book by guest: Raising a Strong Daughter in a Toxic Culture.

Navigating a toxic culture with your daughter I

August 10, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 23 MB

**Note: Program is not appropriate for younger listeners** How can your daughter survive in today’s toxic culture? Dr. Meg Meeker, will offer help in navigating a confusing and amoral world. She’ll explain the difference between healthy and toxic feminism, while helping you focus on your daughter’s character and building her faith for a bright future. Book by guest: Raising a Strong Daughter in a Toxic Culture.

Finding Happiness in God II

August 05, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 23 MB

Happiness is a biblical concept. Ms. Lisa Harper shares about what keeps us from true happiness, and will share healthy, practical ways you can find joy, even in difficult circumstances. Book by guest: The Sacrament of Happy

Finding Happiness in God I

August 04, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MB

Happiness is a biblical concept. Ms. Lisa Harper shares about what keeps us from true happiness, and will share healthy, practical ways you can find joy, even in difficult circumstances. Book by guest: The Sacrament of Happy

Loving your spouse through the seasons of marriage II

August 03, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 23 MB

Every marriage has seasons — spring, summer, autumn and winter. But how do you navigate chilly and bitter times with your spouse? We’ll examine with Debra Fileta how “autumn and winter seasons” of a marriage can lead to new growth and another spring! Book by guest: Love in Every Season.

Loving your spouse through the seasons of marriage I

August 02, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 23 MB

When you and your spouse fall in love, it’s like springtime! You’ll hear from Debra Fileta how every marriage will experience different “seasons” — spring, summer, autumn and winter. Are you ready to learn the important lessons each season brings to your relationship? Book by guest: Love In Every Season.

Gender Differences II

July 30, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 34.4 MB

God has created men and women differently and these unique attributes are for a reason. Unfortunately, it’s these distinctions that can lead to frustration and conflict. Joanne Wilson is a counsellor, Neuropsychotherapist and podcaster, and will be providing some more insights to how amazing God created men and women and how those differences can impact how we interact with one another. Book by guest: Renovate Your Relationship - All the DIY Tools You'll Ever Need For Your Most Important Proj...

Created by God for a Purpose

July 29, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MB

Have you ever wished you could change something about yourself? Perhaps your height, your hair colour, or your skills? Maybe your children feel that way, too. Dr. Kathy Koch will share a unique perspective on how to appreciate your God-give attributes and how to overcome perceived limitations. Book by Guest: 8 Great Smarts.

Gender Differences I

July 23, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 35 MB

We explore in a little more detail how men and women have been uniquely made by God and how that can impact relationships. Joanne Wilson is a counsellor, Neuropsychotherapist and podcaster, and will be providing some insights to how amazing God created men and women and how those differences can impact how we interact with one another. Book by guest: Renovate Your Relationship - All the DIY Tools You'll Ever Need For Your Most Important Project.

If you want a great marriage, do this II

July 21, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MB

Great marriages don’t happen by accident — it’s often the little things that matter most. You’ll hear why honesty and vulnerability, keeping short accounts, spending time together, and a shared vision are essential! Learn how to succeed in your marriage with Katharine Hill. Book by guest: If You Forget Everything Else, Remember This.

If you want a great marriage, do this I

July 20, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MB

Great marriages don’t happen by accident — it’s often the little things that matter most. You’ll hear why honesty and vulnerability, keeping short accounts, spending time together, and a shared vision are essential! Learn how to succeed in your marriage with Katharine Hill. Book by guest: If You Forget Everything Else, Remember This.

Understanding the Root of your Child's Misbehaviour II

July 19, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MB

Have you ever stopped to consider YOU might be the reason your child misbehaves? Parenting expert Dr. Kevin Leman will uncover the root cause of whining, back talking, and tantrums so you can transform your home. Book by guest: Why Your Kids Misbehave, and What To Do About It.

Understanding the Root of your Child's Misbehaviour I

July 18, 2021 15:00 - 24 minutes - 22.9 MB

Have you ever stopped to consider YOU might be the reason your child misbehaves? Parenting expert Dr. Kevin Leman will uncover the root cause of whining, back talking, and tantrums so you can transform your home. Book by guest: Why Your Kids Misbehave, and What To Do About It.

Strengthening your marriage through daily choices

July 15, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MB

Ron and Jody Zappia were on shaky ground from the very start of their marriage relationship. They were unbelievers, living in different cities with ambitious career goals. But an extra-marital affair changed all of that. Find out how they came to Christ and restored their marriage. Book by guest: The Marriage Knot.

Simple ways to love your daughter or son II

July 14, 2021 15:00 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MB

You really love your children — but you may not be showing them love in meaningful ways! Matt and Lisa Jacobson will encourage you to listen more, offer lots of encouragement, and give your children more hugs! Books by guests: 100 Ways to Love your Daughter and 100 Ways to Love your Son.