The Art of the Question with Mandi Gerth

Good conversations with our children do not just happen. They require intentionality, attention, and the courage to ask questions that may take more than a few seconds to answer.

In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens welcomes back Mandi Gerth to explore how the questions we ask shape not only daily conversation, but the long-term relationship we hope to have with our children as adults. Drawing on her experience as a teacher and parent, Mandi explains that a good question opens what she calls an “expectant vacancy.” The challenge is that we must be ready for what fills that space.

Together, they unpack three kinds of questions parents can practice:

Questions that check for understanding and invite narration, not just yes-or-no answers

Follow-up questions that build intellectual habits, encouraging evidence, comparison, and thoughtful reasoning

Big-idea questions that help children contemplate virtue, faith, and moral responsibility at every age

Mandi also offers a wise reminder for parents of teens. Do not be shocked by what they say. Create a home where doubts and hard questions can be voiced safely. Ask follow-ups. Stay present. Keep pointing them toward truth.

🎧 Tune in to hear:

• Why “How was your day?” rarely leads to meaningful connection
• How follow-up questions quietly form habits of wisdom
• Why big conversations are not just for upper school students
• How intentional dialogue today builds relationships that last for decades

This episode is a practical and hopeful reminder that asking better questions is not about performance. It is about love, formation, and walking closely with our children as they grow.

Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible:

Wisdom and Eloquence
The Herzog Foundation
The Champion Group
Wisephone by Techless
ZipCast
Wilson Hill Academy

Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected]

Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.