Showing Up Is Everything: Markwayne Mullin on Parenting Six Children

Join Shannon Bream as she welcomes Senator Markwayne Mullin to discuss his unique journey from undefeated MMA fighter (5-0 record) and Oklahoma Wrestling Hall of Fame inductee to U.S. Senator, but most importantly, his role as father to six children and devoted husband to Christie. With refreshing transparency and genuine heart, this Cherokee Nation member shares how his faith transformed from dutiful church attendance to authentic surrender after a newlywed argument in 1997 that led him to truly give his heart to the Lord. He explains his unwavering three-priority system (God, family, everything else) and reveals how he and Christie built their family through both biological children after struggling with infertility for seven years, and through adoption—including twin girls and a family friend whose father died of brain cancer. Markwayne emphasizes that every family member has veto power over his political career, and he turns down events with presidents to attend his children’s activities, helping parents understand that “if you gain the whole world but lose your family, you have nothing”—offering hope for anyone trying to balance demanding careers with meaningful family relationships.