Episodes

Dec. 10, 2021

Season 5, Episode 4: We Love Our Grandparents

Having grandchildren has a way of bringing things full circle. To help bring a fun perspective on grandparenting, John Fuller talks with Roger and Diane Ingolia about their experiences as grandparents. We'll also hear from children on why they love grandma and grandpa. Get the book "Keeping Christmas: 25 Advent Reflections on a Christmas Carol". Read the article "No-Stress Grandparenting During the Holidays". Read the article "Welcome to Advent 2021". Get More Episode Resources If you've li...
Dec. 3, 2021

Season 5, Episode 3: Christmas as a Newlywed

There's nothing like celebrating the Christmas season as a newlywed. To reflect back on those early years, John Fuller chats with Greg and Erin Smalley about their first Christmas as a married couple. They'll also explain how those first few years together have set the tone for holidays since then. Get the book "Keeping Christmas: 25 Advent Reflections on a Christmas Carol". Read the article "Our Newlywed Christmas" Get More Episode Resources If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please...
Nov. 26, 2021

Season 5, Episode 2: A Great Perspective for Singles

Singles have a special place in God's family during the holidays. While it may feel lonely at times, Christmas can also be a season to create rich memories. Lisa Anderson joins John Fuller to discuss the unique opportunities singles have during the most wonderful time of the year. Get the book "Keeping Christmas: 25 Advent Reflections on a Christmas Carol". Read the article "A Single Adult's Christmas Bucket List. Get More Episode Resources If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please g...
Nov. 19, 2021

Season 5, Episode 1: Through the Eyes of a Child

There's something special about hearing why a child loves Christmas. John Fuller and Dr. Danny Huerta reflect back on the joys of Christmas as a child, and lessons they've learned now as parents. You'll also hear children tell what they're most looking forward to this year. Get the book "Keeping Christmas: 25 Advent Reflections on a Christmas Carol". Read the article "Welcome to Advent 2021" Get More Episode Resources If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.
Nov. 15, 2021

Season 5 Preview

Welcome to Season 5 of the Christmas Stories podcast! Join John Fuller as he chats with a variety of Focus on the Family friends about why each member of the family plays a special role in making the holidays special. Throughout each episode, you'll also hear from some of our friends and broadcast guests as they share memories and heart-warming stories. Get the book "Keeping Christmas: 25 Advent Reflections" on a Christmas Carol. Get More Episode Resources If you've listened to any of our pod...
Dec. 18, 2020

Season 4, Episode 5: The Beautiful Hope of Christmas

With Christmas just one week away, it’s important to take a step back and reflect on how the story of Jesus gives us hope. John, Diane and Paul discuss how they find comfort through the story of Christ’s birth, and evangelist J. John explains what the purpose of Christmas is. Get the Advent Calendar Join the AIO Club Get More Episode Resources If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.
Dec. 11, 2020

Season 4, Episode 4: A Heart-Warming Christmas Story (Pt. 2)

During the holidays, it’s good to have fun with your loved ones. John, Lisa and Diane talk about their favorite activities to do with their family and friends; plus you’ll also hear part 2 of the Adventures in Odyssey drama, "It's a Pokenberry Christmas," based on the film, "It’s a Wonderful Life." Get the Advent Calendar Join the AIO Club Get More Episode Resources If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.
Dec. 4, 2020

Season 4, Episode 3: A Heart-Warming Christmas Story (Pt. 1)

With the Christmas season now in full swing, John, Diane and Lisa will talk about their favorite Christmas movies and what they’re most grateful for this year. You’ll also hear part 1 of the Adventures in Odyssey drama, "It's a Pokenberry Christmas," which is based on the classic movie, "It's a Wonderful Life." Get the Advent Calendar Join the AIO Club Get More Episode Resources If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.
Nov. 27, 2020

Season 4, Episode 2: Bringing Peace to Your Community

While Christmas can be a time to get together with family and friends, it’s also a beautiful opportunity to reach out to people in your community. John, Diane and Paul share about friends they admire for their willingness to reach out to others; and you’ll also hear the powerful audio drama, “When Christmas Came to Thorn Creek Bridge.” Get the Advent Calendar Join the AIO Club Get More Episode Resources If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.
Nov. 20, 2020

Season 4, Episode 1: Preparing for Advent

While 2020 has been a year filled with lots of twists and turns, the Christmas and Advent seasons can still give us hope. John, Lisa, Paul and Diane share how they’re planning to celebrate Christmas this year; and author Asheritah Ciuciu gives some creative and inspiring ways to celebrate Advent with your family. Get the Advent Calendar Join the AIO Club! Get More Episode Resources If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.
Nov. 16, 2020

Season 4 Preview

Welcome to Season 4 of the Christmas Stories podcast! John, Paul, Lisa and Diane are back this year to preview Season 4, and to share their favorite things of the holiday season. Get the Advent Calendar Join the AIO Club! Get More Episode Resources If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.
Dec. 20, 2019

Season 3, Episode 5: Christmas Surprise

Like a director behind a curtain, God is working in your life even when you can't see it. Today, John and Diane share stories about being surprised at Christmas; and you'll hear the incredible story of "The Innkeepers Dream," portrayed by the late David Shelton. Get More Episode Resources
Dec. 13, 2019

Season 3, Episode 4: Giving Hope This Holiday

Serving God at Christmastime is a beautiful opportunity to shine light into a dark world. But you might be asking how? Today on Christmas Stories, you'll hear a powerful drama called "Shoemaker Martin" and John, Diane, and Paul share encouraging stories about serving God in simple ways. Get More Episode Resources
Dec. 6, 2019

Season 3, Episode 3: The Miracle of Christmas (Pt. 2)

With Christmas approaching soon, we continue to remember the story that gave us this holiday. You'll hear the second part of "Nine Months in Nazareth" as Mary and Joseph welcomed Jesus into the world. Plus, Liz Curtis Higgs talks about God working through impossible circumstances, and John, Lisa, and Diane share some inspiring Christmas memories. Get More Episode Resources
Nov. 29, 2019

Season 3, Episode 2: The Miracle of Christmas (Pt. 1)

Have you ever wondered what it was like walking in Mary and Joseph's shoes as they prepared for the birth of Jesus? John, Diane, and Lisa share the first part of a drama called "Nine Months in Nazareth" which re-tells Mary and Joseph's story. Plus, author Liz Curtis Higgs describes how the Nativity story can give you hope today. Get More Episode Resources
Nov. 22, 2019

Season 3, Episode 1: Enjoying the Season

Like a strand of colorful lights brightening a tree, getting a Christmas present can spark gratitude within your heart. John, Lisa, Paul and Diane share stories about their favorite Christmas presents; and you'll hear a heartwarming drama called "Such As I Have," about finding gratitude in a hospital room. Get More Episode Resources
Nov. 18, 2019

Season 3 Preview

Christmas is almost here, and to celebrate we're launching Season 3 of the Christmas Stories podcast! Join John, Paul, Lisa and Diane as they preview Season 3, and for a fun conversation about the Christmas songs they love, and the songs that drive them crazy. Get More Episode Resources
Dec. 21, 2018

Season 2, Episode 7: A Christmas Filled With Meaning

What makes a Christmas meaningful? Diane and Paul talk about what makes Christmas meaningful to them; while Pam McCune, Kim Wier and Bob Welch share practical ways to add joy to the season. Download Kathi Lipp's Stocking Stuffer PDF AIO Christmas Fun Pack Link to Advent Calendar – Knowing Him by Name Digital Download: Living in Peace with People Who Drive You Crazy Digital Download: Family Dynamics During the Holidays Article: Family Stress at Christmastime If you've listened to any of ou...
Dec. 14, 2018

Season 2, Episode 6: Getting Along With Family Members

Let's face it – family get-togethers at Christmas can be challenging. Diane, Mike, and the Smalleys will explain how you can get along with difficult family members and show them the love of Christ. Download Kathi Lipp's Stocking Stuffer PDF AIO Christmas Fun Pack Link to Advent Calendar – Knowing Him by Name Digital Download: Living in Peace with People Who Drive You Crazy Digital Download: Family Dynamics During the Holidays Article: Family Stress at Christmastime If you've listened to ...
Dec. 7, 2018

Season 2, Episode 5: The Story of Christmas

We've all heard about Jesus and Santa Clause, but there's much more to the story of Christmas. Phil Vischer talks with John about how Christmas became a holiday, and Diane shares fun ways to tell your children about Christmas. Kathi Lipp’s Stocking Stuffer List AIO Christmas Fun Pack Link to Advent Calendar – Knowing Him by Name The Purpose of Christmas Fewer Toys, More Christmas Joy
Nov. 30, 2018

Season 2, Episode 4: Christmas Stress-Test

Christmas can feel stressed and overly rushed, but it doesn't have to be that way. John and Lisa discuss ways for you to have fun in the midst of busyness, while Kathi Lipp gives advice for staying organized during the Christmas season. Get More Episode Resources
Nov. 30, 2018

Season 2 Preview

Welcome to Season 2 of the Christmas Stories podcast! John, Paul, Lisa and Diane are back this year to preview Season 2, and to share their favorite things of the holiday season. If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.
Nov. 23, 2018

Season 2, Episode 3: Enjoying Christmas Without Breaking the Bank

Black Friday shouldn't be the day when your bank account turns red. Mary Hunt gives advice for handling money well at Christmas, while Diane explains how you can teach your family members about money management. Plus, Lisa offers financial advice for singles. Reasons for Becoming Debt-Free Your Christmas Money Plan The Very Best Christmas Money Can’t Buy Download Kathi Lipp's Stocking Stuffer PDF AIO Christmas Fun Pack Advent Calendar – Knowing Him by Name If you've listened to any of our...
Nov. 16, 2018

Season 2, Episode 2: The Story of Thanksgiving

What makes Thanksgiving so important? Paul and John discuss the amazing story behind the holiday, and Eric Metaxas shares the importance of a man named Squanto. Get More Episode Resources