A Heart That Beats for Home
Hey friend! I’m Nikki Smith—wife, mom of three, entrepreneur, and host of A Heart That Beats for Home. Over the years, God has used marriage, motherhood, business, and everyday life to stretch me, grow me, humble me, and draw me closer to Him. This space is a reflection of the journey I’m still on—growing, learning, and leaning into much-needed grace. I have a heart to keep investing intentionally in my marriage of 26 years with the man God has given me as a partner and best friend, to walk faithfully toward the season of empty nesting, and to grow deeper in relationship with my adult and soon-to-be adult children. More than anything, I’m passionate about drawing closer to my Heavenly Father—truly knowing Him in a way that is real and active in my everyday life—and reflecting Him in all my relationships, actions, and plans.
Each episode is a real, hope-filled conversation about the things that matter most: building strong families, walking faithfully in the gift of marriage, parenting intentionally through every stage, and keeping Christ at the center of it all. Alongside my own story, you’ll hear from amazing guests who share a deep passion for nurturing strong families where Jesus is glorified. Their wisdom, vulnerability, and encouragement will remind you that you’re not alone in this journey.
Whether you’re single, newly married, raising little ones, building a business, or walking through a new season, you’re welcome here. This is a space for women who love their families fiercely and want to lead with purpose—honoring God in the roles He has placed us in, faithfully shepherding the souls in our homes, and nurturing an environment that reflects the fruit of the Spirit and a life that glorifies Him.
One day at a time, may we become women who cultivate hearts that beat for home.
Thanks for being here,
Nikki
A Heart That Beats for Home
92. Parenting Teens Without Constant Conflict: Where to Hold the Line (and Where to Let Go)
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This week’s episode is a little different, and one I’m really excited to bring back.
As I was preparing to record a new episode on the topic of principles vs. preferences in parenting, I went back to revisit what I had already shared in the very early days of this podcast… and I was reminded just how much this conversation still matters.
In fact, it felt too important to try to recreate.
So today, we’re revisiting one of the very first episodes of A Heart That Beats for Home, a conversation around building connection with our teens and young adults, and learning how to choose what truly matters.
We’re diving into:
- The difference between principles and preferences in parenting
- How trying to “be right” can damage connection
- Practical examples of where to hold firm—and where to let go
- Why protecting relationship should often take priority
- How to navigate the emotional intensity of the teen years
- Creating a safe space so your kids come to you first
Whether you’ve been here since the beginning or you’re newer to the podcast, I truly believe this is one of those conversations that hits differently depending on the season you’re in.
Sometimes we don’t need new information… we need the right reminder.
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