In this episode, Adam and Barnabas talk about how they considered risks and opportunities when they were younger vs. how they consider them now.

• What risks do we wish we had taken?
• How does someone weigh risk vs. reward?
• How does that evaluation change over the years?
• How do we consider risk in terms of following God’s will for our lives?

And of course they take a few moments to be properly curmudgeonly about a nitpicky, petty, and otherwise mundane topic.

In this episode, Adam and Barnabas consider their own spiritual states in their younger years and discuss some things they wish they had known.

• Aspects of spiritual life and faith to be taken more seriously
• Things that fueled or quenched spiritual passion
• The role of friends and mentors in spiritual life

And of course they take a few moments to be properly curmudgeonly about a nitpicky, petty, and otherwise mundane topic.

How does this topic impact all ages? Encouragement to the young, exhortation to ourselves, others and “the old.”

Imagine waking up to the chaos of a house fire ignited by a hoverboard and the whirlwind of emotions that ensue. Join us in this deeply personal episode of the Curious Curmudgeons podcast as Barnabas Piper and Adam Read recount the harrowing night that changed Adam’s life, complete with frantic trips to the ER for smoke inhalation. At the same time, Barnabas shares the rollercoaster of emotions as he celebrates both his daughter's high school graduation and the birth of his new baby boy, painting a vivid picture of life's unpredictability.

We dive into the profound sense of divine protection felt amidst such trials and the overwhelming support from our community. Listen as we reflect on the delicate balance between acknowledging the trauma of events like a house fire and recognizing the protective hand of God. Hear the inspiring stories of church members coming together, stepping up to meet immediate needs, and demonstrating Christ-like love that has left an indelible mark on our families and our faith.

Parenting transitions take center stage as we explore the challenges and emotional journey of seeing children grow up and leave the nest. From the bittersweet moments of preparing an 18-year-old for college to the humorous chaos of a household filled with women, this episode is a heartfelt exploration of resilience, community, and faith. Tune in for a blend of laughter, poignant reflections, and the invaluable lessons we’ve learned along the way. Don't miss the spirited debate on driving habits and the exciting announcement about season two that promises more engaging content ahead!

What happens when faith becomes more than just a family tradition? Join us in the final episode of the Curious Curmudgeon podcast's inaugural season, as we explore the profound journey of personal conviction in Christ. We'll share Adam's transformative experience at 16, shedding light on how to make faith truly personal and authentic. We also express our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support throughout our journey and invite you to share this episode with friends who might find solace and inspiration.

Navigate the intricate path of faith through periods of doubt and personal failure with us. Discover the transformative power of scripture, particularly a poignant verse from Mark 9, and learn how wise mentors and a supportive church community can be pivotal during times of spiritual deconstruction and reconstruction. Hear personal stories, including the lasting impact of a sixth-grade teacher's humility and biblical wisdom, that have shaped our understanding of faith.

In our final segment, we explore the awakening to genuine faith and the significant impact of mentorship. Understand how encounters with authentic Christian living shift faith from fear-based to love-grounded. We also reminisce about our favorite quotable movies from our youth and share our frustration with podcast banter that often strays from the main topic. Thank you for journeying with us, and stay tuned for more exciting themes and topics in the next season!

What happens when the unexpected storms of life turn your world upside down? In this emotionally charged episode, we promise you'll gain insights into navigating life's most challenging transitions. Adam opens up about his harrowing experience with multiple lung collapses and surgeries during a time he least expected it. His story serves as a powerful reminder of how unplanned events can alter our life's path, and how finding wisdom and comfort during these times can be transformative.

As we move forward, we delve into the raw and often painful journey of life after divorce. We candidly address the complex emotional aftermath, including reorienting one’s identity and decisions in the wake of such significant change.

In the concluding chapters, we explore finding purpose amidst suffering, the significance of supportive relationships, and the importance of walking in obedience towards redemption. Psalm 138:8 becomes a cornerstone of comfort, emphasizing that God's plans prevail even in the face of chronic illness and pain. We also highlight the critical role of community and friendships, urging listeners to focus on embodying the fruits of the spirit. Through poignant examples and heartfelt reflections, this episode offers hope and encouragement for anyone grappling with the unpredictable challenges life throws their way.

Join us on the Curious Curmudgeon podcast as we explore the multifaceted journey of parenting through life transitions. With nearly two decades of experience raising children, we reflect on our transition into parenthood and the continuous evolution that comes with each stage of our children's lives. From the sleepless nights of infancy to the bittersweet moments of preparing our children for college, we share invaluable lessons learned, the shifting priorities over time, and the wisdom and humility gained along the way. Discover the relentless changes that define parenting and the values that have become more precious to us, along with our hopes for the future.

Listen in as we discuss the steep learning curve and shift in responsibilities that accompany early parenthood, highlighting the importance of teamwork and mutual support. As our children grow, we explore the dynamics of parenting through their elementary and middle school years, focusing on the challenges and joys of guiding them through social situations, developmental changes, and the quest for self-identity. We emphasize the significance of maintaining open communication, setting clear expectations, and balancing high standards with forgiveness and mercy. Through personal anecdotes, we highlight the meaningful conversations that provide glimpses of growth and grace amidst the chaos.

As our children transition to high school and beyond, we address the unique challenges of nurturing their independence while fostering critical thinking and individuality. We share our experiences of parenting with humility and prayer, emphasizing the importance of consistent faith and openness about our shortcomings. Tune in for engaging discussions about the pressures of air travel with toddlers, the need for understanding and grace towards parents, and the importance of supporting children in discovering their identities. Join us for thought-provoking insights and a bit of entertainment on the Curious Curmudgeon podcast.

Leaving a church is never a simple decision. Remember when we had to make that tough call? We felt the emotional and spiritual weight bearing down on us, wrestling with whether it was the right time to move on. This episode is all about those moments—whether you're leaving due to painful experiences or positive life changes, we’ve got strategies to ensure a Christ-honoring exit. We share personal stories to reveal the complex dynamics of quietly disappearing versus formally saying goodbye, and how one’s role in the church and its size can influence these decisions.

Before deciding to leave, approaching church leadership with questions rather than accusations can be a game-changer. We delve into the importance of open, humble communication and how a leadership's response can reflect the church's culture. If you're married, we talk about the crucial role of prayer and thoughtful consideration with your spouse before making such a significant decision. Personal anecdotes underscore the ongoing struggle to forgive and the profound impact of God’s grace in healing and forgiveness, illuminating the path to moving forward with a clear conscience.

Once you’ve decided to leave, the next step is finding a new church that feels like home. We discuss the essential elements to look for, from gospel-centered preaching to genuine community warmth. Be prepared for some honest reflections on making a commitment to a new church, exploring beyond the services to truly gauge its focus and alignment with Christ. And for a bit of fun, we wrap up with a conversation about music preferences—our nostalgic ties to old favorites and how those early influences shape our current tastes. Join us for a heartfelt blend of practical advice and personal stories aimed at helping you navigate this pivotal journey.