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Your children used to be model kids—until they grew up and decided to try “adulting” on their own. As the dad of three adult daughters, Dr. Jim Burns shares practical ways to navigate this new season of parenting, keeping the welcome mat out and the opinions to a minimum. On this two-day broadcast, you’ll learn about topics like healthy boundaries, estrangement, and reconciliation with your wayward adult child.Receive a copy of the "When Your Adult Child Strays" bundle and an audio download of "What to Do with Your Wayward Adult Child" for your donation of any amount! Plus, receive member-exclusive benefits when you make a recurring gift today. Your monthly support helps families thrive.Get more episode resources Do you have a story or comment on how Focus on the Family impacted you or your family? Leave a message for Jim Daly!If you enjoyed listening to Focus on the Family with Jim Daly, please give us your feedback.
When your adult child is going through heartbreak, it can be difficult to know what to do. You want to protect them, take away their pain, and somehow make everything better—but you can't walk through the heartbreak for them. Whether they are grieving a breakup, betrayal, disappointment, or another painful relationship experience, Christian parents can learn to support their adult children while trusting God to carry them through the storm. Isaiah 43:2 reminds us that God doesn't promise a life without painful seasons, but He does promise His presence in the middle of them: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you.” As a parent, that means you don't have to fix your adult child's heartbreak. You can listen, offer a steady and loving presence, pray for them, and give their pain and future to God, trusting Him to bring healing, wisdom, and hope in His timing. Highlights How to support an adult child through heartbreak without trying to fix everything Why parents must learn to trust God with their grown children's pain How Isaiah 43:2 offers hope in seasons of grief and emotional pain Practical ways to be present for an adult child who is hurting Why listening can be more helpful than offering advice or pity How to cast your own anxiety about your child's pain on God Finding faith, hope, and love while waiting for healing and redemption Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Giving Your Adult Child’s Heartbreak to God By: Lia Girard Bible Reading: When you pass through the waters,I will be with you;and when you pass through the rivers,they will not sweep over you.When you walk through the fire,you will not be burned;the flames will not set you ablaze. – Isaiah 43:2, NIV As Christians, we know that Jesus doesn’t promise a trouble-free life here on earth. Which naturally means we can expect that there will be days or seasons of pain, heartache, confusion, or grief. However, just knowing that we’re human (and that hurt will find us eventually) doesn’t prevent the sadness and anger heartbreak causes—whenever and however it shows up. We can try to gird ourselves with gratitude, faith, and hope. Relying on this inclination can help us weather storms. But we can’t make the storms simply not come. Being a parent of two adult children, I deeply understand the desire to wish every hard thing away from your children’s lives. It starts early, before their very first injury, and continues through your entire parenting journey. And although you know that surviving struggles will help your children build compassion, wisdom, and strength, this can get dicey when it comes to someone mistreating them or breaking their heart. Because you’ve raised your child to be an adult, you know they’re “out there” in this world, taking chances, loving deeply, and making their own choices. Yet you still want to be there for them, whenever they may need you. But the role has shifted fully now, from daily provider to encourager as they chart their own path. You know it’s right to raise adults, and not “baby” your grown children, but it’s also a strange and somewhat tender passage. It means letting go of having a say-so and just being available for them as they seek direction from the ultimate parent, God. In Isaiah 43:2, God is reassuring the Israelites that he is carrying them through their exile, no matter how hard it seems. And he is assuring all of us today that no matter what your adult child is walking through, God promises to step right into the murky water with them. Later in Isaiah 43:18-19, God says, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” Some biblical scholars say that God is clearly stating here that when a situation is dire and feels unbearable, he will never abandon you and is working on something new for you. This is good news when your own heart is aching because someone has broken your adult child’s heart. It means you can be sure that God is in control of your child’s recovery. Remember, it’s a promise. And for your own heart, while you’re believing in God to carry your child through grief, you can lean into 1 Peter 5:7, and “cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” When someone hurts your grown child’s heart, leaving them holding a heavy load of bewilderment or loneliness, let them know you love them and are right here for anything they want or need. Keep checking in and listening. It’s likely they’ve been through enough maturing to not want or need you to preach to them, offer them pity, or even cry with them—though I know you want to. Because God is with them, you can be the same present, interested, loving parent you’ve always been, and have faith in better days ahead. You may have been through to the other side of heartbreak yourself and seen the kind of redemption your child hasn’t. Yet. It’s certain they will encounter their own unique ups, downs, and renewals. So be patient. Be kind. And remember that the final verse of the famous 1 Corinthians 13 “love chapter” that tells us true love is patient and kind, also encourages us: “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” Remind your child that God loves them, and so do you. And that you believe God’s promise: that He will carry them through. Intersecting Faith & Life: When you want to “fix” your adult child’s relationship heartbreak, consider instead offering your loving presence in ways like these: Invite them to lunch, dinner, or dessert somewhere they’ve been wanting to try Find and suggest a nature hike to enjoy together Have them over to watch a show or sports game you both enjoy If they’re far away, send them something soothing, like socks, slippers, or a delivery dinner Interact with them the same way you always have—with love, joy, and interest in them Ask: Do you want to talk? And respect their wishes. Further Reading:Psalm 147:3 Psalm 55:22 Psalm 23 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Your children used to be model kids—until they grew up and decided to try “adulting” on their own. As the dad of three adult daughters, Dr. Jim Burns shares practical ways to navigate this new season of parenting, keeping the welcome mat out and the opinions to a minimum. On this two-day broadcast, you’ll learn about topics like healthy boundaries, estrangement, and reconciliation with your wayward adult child.Receive a copy of the "When Your Adult Child Strays" bundle and an audio download of "What to Do with Your Wayward Adult Child" for your donation of any amount! Plus, receive member-exclusive benefits when you make a recurring gift today. Your monthly support helps families thrive.Get more episode resources Do you have a story or comment on how Focus on the Family impacted you or your family? Leave a message for Jim Daly!If you enjoyed listening to Focus on the Family with Jim Daly, please give us your feedback.
What happens when our kids grow up and our role as their mom begins to change?This is something I think so many moms struggle with, but we don't always talk about it. When our kids are young, there is so much support and conversation around parenting. But once they become adults, the challenges can feel much more complicated and lonely.We can find ourselves comparing our kids' lives. Where did they go to college? Are they married? Do they have kids? What are they doing with their lives? And then there are the harder questions. What happens when our adult child makes choices we don't understand? What happens when they pull away from us? And what happens when there is little or no contact at all?In this episode, I talk with Dr. Jim Burns about one of the hardest topics many parents face: estrangement from an adult child. We talk about what estrangement can look like, why parents often ask themselves, "What did I do wrong?" and how we can move from heartache to hope.One of the biggest reminders in this conversation is that we cannot fix our adult children. But we can learn how to love them well, communicate differently, and keep the door open for reconciliation.In This Episode, We Talk About: Why moms often struggle silently when parenting adult children The comparison game that can happen when our kids become adults What adult child estrangement can look like Why parents often blame themselves when a child pulls away Why unsolicited advice can feel like criticism How to become the calmest person in the room Being a safe person without becoming a doormat Moving from being an advice giver to becoming a mentor How to respond when we feel defensive or hurt Connect with Dr. Jim Burns: Website: HomeWord Instagram: Dr. Jim Burns and Doug Fields (@homewordfamily) Facebook: HomeWord Family Links Mentioned: When Your Adult Child Strays: By Jim Burns Ph.D Doing Life with Your Adult Children: By Jim Burns Ph.D Boundaries: By Henry Cloud and John Townsend Reconnecting with Your Estranged Adult Child: By Tina Gilbertson Jim Burns Podcast - HomeWord Related Episodes: Strengthening the Relationship with Your Adult Child :: Kathy Cunningham [Ep 543] How to {really} Parent with Grace :: Jeannie Cunnion {Ep 55} “How do I connect better with my kids?” [Ep 475] Featured Sponsors: Honeylove: Save 20% off Honeylove by going to honeylove.com/DMA #honeylovepodExperience the new standard in comfort and support with Honeylove. Wayfair: Join Wayfair Rewards today to get 5% back on every purchase and start saving on your next home upgrade. Head to Wayfair.com to shop all things home. Every Style. Every Home.
The grief of being estranged from an adult child is in a category of its own. It does not arrive with a funeral or a clear moment of loss. It accumulates in empty birthdays, quiet holidays, and the absence of a simple acknowledgment that you exist. And it is far more common than most people talk about openly. This episode speaks directly to that pain with honesty and hard-won hope. For any parent sitting with the silence of an estranged child, there are several truths worth holding onto. First, the grief is real, and it deserves to be brought to God without minimizing it. Second, shifting from asking God "why?" to asking "what now?" is one of the most powerful movements a hurting parent can make. Third, giving your children back to God is not giving up on them. They were His before they were yours, and He has not lost sight of them. And finally, Philippians 1:6 reminds us that He who began a good work will bring it to completion. You were not made to live as though buried alive. Choosing to fully inhabit the life God has given you today, one foot in front of the other, is itself a declaration of faith and a refusal to let grief have the final word. Bible Verse "And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ."— Philippians 1:6, ESV Ponder Today The grief of estrangement from an adult child is a particular and often invisible kind of loss. It does not have a funeral or a clear beginning. It accumulates in empty birthdays and quiet Thanksgivings and the absence of a text message. Bringing that specific grief to God is not weakness — it is wisdom. Shifting from "why?" to "what now?" is one of the most powerful movements a grieving parent can make. It does not minimize the pain. It refuses to let the pain be the only thing that defines the days ahead. We can hold our own failures honestly without letting them be the only story. Acknowledging the moments that should not have happened is part of healing — but so is remembering that imperfect parents who did their best are not the villains their estranged children may currently believe them to be. Giving your children back to God is an act of profound trust. They were His before they were yours. He has not lost sight of them, and He is still at work in their lives — even when you cannot see it and cannot reach them. You were not made to live as though buried alive. The resurrection of Christ is not just a theological truth — it is a daily reality for those who belong to Him. Choosing to live fully in the life God has given today is itself a declaration of faith. A Prayer for You Today Heavenly Father, I am so grateful that You are the only perfect Parent. Your unconditional love sees me through each day. Today, I lift every estranged parent and grandparent up to You and ask that Your comfort and love surround them. May we find rest in Your presence, trust in Your ongoing work in the lives of our children, and the courage to keep living fully in the days You have given us. May we rejoice in Your workings in all our lives. In gratitude to You, Father, Amen. Want More?
Send us a messageEpisode 230: Your Adult Child Calls You a Narcissist: What Are They Really Trying to Say?If your adult child has called you a narcissist or emotionally immature, you may feel hurt, confused, defensive, or unsure what those words actually mean.These terms are showing up more often in conversations about difficult parent-adult child relationships, but they are not interchangeable. Narcissism and emotional immaturity describe very different patterns, and understanding that difference can help you respond more thoughtfully when your adult child uses one of these labels.In this episode, Tina looks at narcissism vs. emotional immaturity through a family systems lens. She explains how these patterns can show up in parent-adult child relationships, why adult children may use these terms to describe painful experiences, and how parents can listen for what is underneath the label without immediately accepting it or rejecting it.You'll learn:The difference between narcissism and emotional immaturity and why narcissism is a clinical diagnosis while emotional immaturity can describe underdeveloped emotional skills.Why adult children may use words like narcissist or emotionally immature when they are trying to explain their experience, and why these words are not interchangeable and describe two very different things.How to respond when your adult child calls you a narcissist or emotionally immature, especially when your first reaction is defensiveness, shame, or the urge to prove them wrong.How emotional patterns can be passed down through generations, especially when empathy, emotional attunement, self-reflection, and healthy communication were not modeled in your own family.What emotional growth can look like for parents of adult children, including becoming more self-aware, listening without immediately defending yourself, and learning how to stay present during difficult conversations.If you are trying to understand why your adult child sees you as narcissistic or emotionally immature, this episode will help you look beyond the label and focus on the relationship pattern underneath it.You may not agree with the word your adult child is using. But understanding what they are trying to communicate can give you much more useful information about what is happening in your relationship and what you may be able to change.If you know another parent who is struggling with these same questions, share this episode with them.Click Here to download the free guide: 5 Steps to Take Before Trying to Repair the Relationship With Your Adult Child Tina Gosney is the Family Conflict Coach. She works with parents who have families in conflict to help them become the grounded, confident leaders their family needs. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------If you want support putting what you're learning into practice, come join The Connection Community in Bridge to Connection. This is the perfect spot where you can learn, connect and get targeted help to start moving your relationship with your adult child in a different direction. Set up a Connection Clarity Call with Tina to see if this is a good fit for you: CLICK HERE TO SET UP A CALL---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tina is certified in family relationships and a trauma informed coach. Visit tinagosney.com for more information on coaching services.
Send us a messageEpisode 229: My Adult Child Says I Trigger Them: What Should I Do?What does it mean when your adult child says, “You're triggering me”?For many parents, hearing this word can feel confusing, painful, and disorienting. You may wonder what you said wrong, whether you caused a trauma response, or whether it is still possible to have an honest conversation without making things worse.In this episode, Tina explains what the word “triggered” can mean, what may be happening in your adult child's nervous system, and how to respond without becoming defensive, dismissive, or afraid to speak.The word “triggered” originally came from trauma and PTSD research, where it described an involuntary nervous system response to something associated with past danger. Today, the word is also used more broadly to describe emotional distress, discomfort, overwhelm, or the desire to stop a difficult conversation.This episode is also partly based on research from the Gottman Institute, particularly its work on emotional flooding during conflict. Emotional flooding happens when the body becomes so activated that heart rate rises, stress hormones increase, and the ability to think clearly, show empathy, and solve problems begins to decrease.The Gottman Institute's research was conducted primarily with couples, not parents and adult children. However, the underlying nervous system response to relational stress can still offer a helpful framework for understanding why difficult conversations sometimes become unproductive so quickly.You do not have to decide in the moment whether your adult child is experiencing a trauma trigger, emotional flooding, or simply feeling overwhelmed. Your job is not to diagnose the reaction. Your job is to respond in a way that lowers the intensity and protects the possibility of repair.Why You Should ListenIf your adult child says you trigger them, you may feel like you are walking on eggshells. You may become afraid to ask questions, bring up concerns, or continue difficult conversations.This episode will help you understand what may be happening beneath the word “triggered” so you can respond with more steadiness and less defensiveness.You will also learn why taking a break can help the nervous system settle, why pushing through an emotionally flooded conversation often backfires, and why returning to the discussion later is an essential part of rebuilding trust.In This Episode, You Will Learn:What “triggered” means in trauma research, therapy language, and everyday conversationsHow the Gottman Institute's research on emotional flooding helps explain what happens during intense conflictWhat to say when your adult child tells you that you are triggering themWhy a real pause can restore clear thinking, empathy, and emotional regulationHow returning to the conversation can support conflict repair and strengthen your relationship with your adult childYou do not need to argue about whether your adult child is using the word correctly. You also do not need to treat every use of the word as an emergency.Instead, you can notice the emotional activation, regulate your own nervous system, take a meaningful pause, and make a plan to return to the conversation when both of you are steadier.A pause is not the same as avoidance. The goal is not to abandon the topic. The goal is to create enough calm that the conversation has a better chance of becoming productive.When you consistently show your adult child that difficult conversations can pause and then continue, you begin to create a new pattern. Over time, hard topics may feel less threatening because neither person has to fear that every disagreement will end in defensiveness, withdrawal, or a slammed door.Listen now to better understand emotional triggers, nervous system regulation, emotional flooding, and how to respond when your adult child says you trigger them.If this episode helps you make sense of a difficult moment, share it with another parent who may need to hear it.Click Here to download the free guide: 5 Steps to Take Before Trying to Repair the Relationship With Your Adult Child Tina Gosney is the Family Conflict Coach. She works with parents who have families in conflict to help them become the grounded, confident leaders their family needs. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------If you want support putting what you're learning into practice, come join The Connection Community in Bridge to Connection. This is the perfect spot where you can learn, connect and get targeted help to start moving your relationship with your adult child in a different direction. Set up a Connection Clarity Call with Tina to see if this is a good fit for you: CLICK HERE TO SET UP A CALL---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tina is certified in family relationships and a trauma informed coach. Visit tinagosney.com for more information on coaching services.
Your kids are grown, the house is finally quiet — then knock knock, "Can I move back in?" Dr. Phil breaks down what an adult child moving home really does to your marriage — and the difference between a "launchpad" and a "hammock" that determines whether your relationship survives it.✔️ Why the empty nest is the most fragile stage in a marriage✔️ The "gray divorce" trend explained✔️ Launchpad vs. Hammock — how to tell the difference✔️ How to protect your marriage while still showing up for your kid
Lynne believes her 25-year-old daughter should move out, but her husband disagrees with this decision. Got a dilemma? Call 1-800-DR-LAURA / 1-800-375-2872 or make an appointment at DrLaura.com Follow on social media: Facebook.com/DrLaura Instagram.com/DrLauraProgram YouTube.com/DrLaura Join the Dr. Laura Family!! >> Receive my weekly newsletter, perks, and more! Sign up now, it's FREE > DrLaura.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Subscribe in a reader Check out my product recommendations for Narcissist Abuse Survivors! – https://www.amazon.com/shop/tracymalone *As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Listen to my podcasts anytime by subscribing with your favorite provider! The post When a Narcissistic Parent Gets Dementia: What Every Adult Child Needs to Know | Meg Haworth appeared first on Narcissist Abuse Support.
Ask a question, send us a message, or let us know how you like the podcastEpisode 228: My Adult Child Says I Traumatized Them: What Should I Do?When your adult child says you traumatized them, it can feel like a judgment on your entire history as a parent. You may feel confused, defensive, ashamed, angry, or desperate to explain what really happened.But the word trauma does not automatically mean you were an abusive parent or that everything you did was wrong. Your adult child may be trying to describe a painful event, a repeated family pattern, or years of feeling unheard, criticized, emotionally unsafe, or unable to be themselves.In this episode, Tina Gosney explains how to respond when your adult child says they experienced childhood trauma. You will learn how to listen without immediately defending yourself, how to understand the difference between big-T trauma and little-t trauma, and how your own childhood experiences may affect the way you hear your child's concerns.This episode is for parents who are asking questions such as:“Did I traumatize my child?”“Why does my adult child blame me for their problems?”“What should I say when my adult child criticizes their childhood?”“Can I repair the relationship with my adult child?”“How do I listen without accepting all the blame?”Why you should listenThis conversation can become a turning point in your relationship. How you respond may either reinforce your adult child's belief that their experience does not matter, or show them that you are willing to understand, grow, and create a healthier relationship moving forward.In this episode, you will learn:Why the word trauma feels so painful to parents and why it can trigger guilt, shame, anger, grief, and defensiveness.The difference between big-T trauma and little-t trauma, including how repeated criticism, emotional tension, conflict, or feeling unheard can affect a child over time.What your adult child may actually mean when they say their childhood was traumatic or that you caused emotional harm.What to say when your adult child brings up childhood trauma, including how to acknowledge their experience without immediately arguing, explaining, or taking responsibility for everything.How to begin repairing the parent-adult child relationship through curiosity, emotional steadiness, changed behavior, and a willingness to listen.You do not have to agree with every detail of your adult child's story in order to take their pain seriously. You also do not have to erase the love, effort, and sacrifices you gave as a parent.The goal is not to decide whose version of the past is correct. The goal is to understand what your adult child is carrying and decide how you want to show up in the relationship now.When one person in a family becomes more grounded, less defensive, and more emotionally steady, the entire family relationship can begin to change.Listen now to learn how to respond when your adult child says you traumatized them, and how this difficult conversation may become an opportunity for healing and relationship repair.If this episode helps you better understand your adult child, share it with another parent who may need support.Click Here to download the free guide: 5 Steps to Take Before Trying to Repair the Relationship with Your Adult Child Tina Gosney is the Family Conflict Coach. She works with parents who have families in conflict to help them become the grounded, confident leaders their family needs. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------If you want support putting what you're learning into practice, come join The Connection Community in Bridge to Connection. This is the perfect spot where you can learn, connect and get targeted help to start moving your relationship with your adult child in a different direction. Set up a Connection Clarity Call with Tina to see if this is a good fit for you. CLICK HERE TO SET UP A CALL---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tina is certified in family relationships and a trauma informed coach. Visit tinagosney.com for more information on coaching services.
Ask a question, send us a message, or let us know how you like the podcastEpisode 227: My Adult Child Says I'm Gaslighting Them. What Do I Do?When your adult child says you are gaslighting them, it can feel like an accusation against your entire character as a parent.You may immediately want to defend yourself, explain what really happened, or prove that your memory is accurate. But when both people are fighting to establish the “correct” version of the past, the conversation often becomes more painful and more disconnected.In this episode, Tina explains what gaslighting actually means, why the term is sometimes used too broadly, and what your adult child may be trying to communicate underneath the accusation. You will learn how to take their experience seriously without agreeing that you intentionally manipulated them or surrendering your own memory of what happened.This episode will help you move out of shame, fear, and defensiveness so you can respond with greater steadiness and curiosity.You will learn:Why being accused of gaslighting can feel like a threat to your identity as a loving parentThe difference between deliberate gaslighting and two people remembering the same event differentlyWhat your adult child may really mean when they say they feel gaslighted or unheardWhat to say in the moment instead of defending every detail or shutting downHow to acknowledge your adult child's experience while still holding onto your own perspectiveYou do not have to accept an inaccurate label in order to listen well. You also do not have to prove your child wrong before the relationship can move forward.Two people can love each other deeply and still remember the past differently. What matters most is whether both experiences can be heard without turning the conversation into a battle over who is right.Share this episode with another parent who may be struggling to understand a painful conversation with their adult child.Click Here to download the free guide: 5 Steps to Take Before Trying to Repair the Relationship with Your Adult Child Tina Gosney is the Family Conflict Coach. She works with parents who have families in conflict to help them become the grounded, confident leaders their family needs. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------If you want support putting what you're learning into practice, come join The Connection Community in Bridge to Connection. This is the perfect spot where you can learn, connect and get targeted help to start moving your relationship with your adult child in a different direction. Set up a Connection Clarity Call with Tina to see if this is a good fit for you. CLICK HERE TO SET UP A CALL---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tina is certified in family relationships and a trauma informed coach. Visit tinagosney.com for more information on coaching services.
Do you struggle to connect with your adult child? How do you navigate the pain in a broken parent/child relationship? On the next Equipped with Chris Brooks, Dr. Kathy Koch helps parents Resolve Conflict and Find Peace and Hope with Adult Children. If you need compassionate guidance or real conversation strategies for communicating with your adult kids, don't miss the next Equipped. Featured resources:Resolve Conflict and Find Peace and Hope with Adult Children by Kathy KochWebsite: Celebrating 100 Years of Moody Radio July thank you gift:Resolve Conflict and Find Peace and Hope with Adult Children by Kathy Koch Equipped with Chris Brooks is made possible through your support. To donate now, click here.
Ask a question, send us a message, or let us know how you like the podcastEpisode 226: My Adult Child Said I was Toxic. What Do I Do With That?Hearing your adult child describe you, your parenting, or your family as “toxic” can feel like a complete rejection of who you are. You may immediately want to defend yourself, explain your intentions, or prove that their version of the past is wrong.But the way you respond in that moment can either deepen the distance or create an opening for greater understanding.In this episode, Tina explains what your adult child may actually be trying to communicate when they use therapy words like “toxic.” She explores how parents can take their child's pain seriously without accepting an unfair label or collapsing into guilt and shame.You will learn how to stay grounded during painful conversations, listen for the experience underneath the accusation, and begin rebuilding trust through curiosity, empathy, and consistent behavior.In this episode, you will learn:Why being called a toxic parent feels like an attack on your entire identityWhat your adult child may mean when they say their childhood or family environment was toxicHow defensiveness can unintentionally reinforce the concerns your child is trying to expressWhat to say when you want to understand your adult child without agreeing with every detailHow changed behavior, emotional safety, and respectful communication can help repair a strained parent-adult child relationshipBeing called toxic does not automatically mean you are a bad parent. It may mean there is a painful gap between what you intended and what your adult child experienced. That gap can be explored, understood, and sometimes repaired.You do not have to argue your way out of your child's pain. You can learn to stay steady, ask better questions, acknowledge the impact, and allow your actions over time to show that the relationship can become different.Share this episode with another parent of an adult child who is struggling with family conflict, emotional distance, estrangement, or painful accusations and needs help knowing how to respond.Click Here to download the free guide: 5 Steps to Take Before Trying to Repair the Relationship with Your Adult Child Tina Gosney is the Family Conflict Coach. She works with parents who have families in conflict to help them become the grounded, confident leaders their family needs. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------If you want support putting what you're learning into practice, come join The Connection Community in Bridge to Connection. You'll get step-by-step relationship lessons, practical tools to calm anxiety and reduce conflict, and live monthly coaching calls to help you stay steady and build real connection with your child—especially when things feel tense. Learn more and join at https://www.courageous-connections.com/bridge-to-connection3---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tina is certified in family relationships and a trauma informed coach. Visit tinagosney.com for more information on coaching services.
John was raised in a broken home by a father who was an alcoholic; his mother ended a lifelong struggle with depression with suicide, all of which had a profound affect on John's heart. John was married and a pastor for more than 8 years… but lost his marriage to divorce. In previous broadcasts John shared his story which included a years long struggle with same sex attraction and pornography, his journey to freedom, and the critical need for support from others. In this show John returns to share the story of his son committing suicide.
Ask a question, send us a message, or let us know how you like the podcastEpisode 225: What Does It Mean When Your Adult Child Says You Don't Respect Their Boundaries?Has your adult child ever told you that you crossed a boundary or that you do not respect their boundaries and left you feeling confused, hurt, or defensive?Many parents hear the word “boundary” as an accusation. You may wonder how your questions, advice, concern, or attempts to stay involved could be interpreted as disrespectful. You love your child and want a close relationship, so being told that your behavior is creating distance can feel deeply painful.In this episode of Coaching Your Family Relationships, Tina explains what adult children may actually mean when they talk about boundaries. She explores the difference between boundaries, preferences, ultimatums, trust issues, and attempts to control another person. She also explains why therapy language can sometimes be used inaccurately while still pointing to a real relationship concern.You will learn how to respond when your adult child says you crossed a boundary without immediately defending yourself, arguing about their wording, or shutting down the conversation. Tina offers practical communication tools to help parents become more curious, listen for the need underneath the accusation, and rebuild trust through consistent changes.This episode is especially important for parents navigating conflict, emotional distance, family estrangement, or difficult communication with an adult son or daughter. Respecting boundaries does not mean agreeing with everything your child says. It means learning how to take their experience seriously while staying grounded in your own values and emotional maturity.In this episode, you'll learn:What boundaries with adult children really are and how they differ from preferences, rules, ultimatums, and control.Why your adult child may experience repeated advice, personal questions, unannounced visits, or comments about their choices as boundary violations.How to manage defensiveness and regulate your nervous system before responding to a painful accusation.What to say when your adult child tells you that they do not feel heard, respected, accepted, or emotionally safe.How small, consistent behavior changes can rebuild trust and strengthen the parent and adult child relationship over time.The goal is not to become a perfect parent or accept every interpretation your adult child offers. The goal is to slow down, become curious, and understand what your child may be trying to communicate about the relationship.A conversation about boundaries does not always mean your adult child is rejecting you. It may be an invitation to create a healthier adult relationship built on mutual respect, clearer communication, emotional safety, and trust.Share this episode with a parent who feels confused or hurt by conversations about boundaries with their adult child.Click Here to download the free guide:5 Steps to Take Before Trying to Repair the Relationship with Your Adult Child Tina Gosney is the Family Conflict Coach. She works with parents who have families in conflict to help them become the grounded, confident leaders their family needs. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------If you want support putting what you're learning into practice, come join The Connection Community in Bridge to Connection. You'll get step-by-step relationship lessons, practical tools to calm anxiety and reduce conflict, and live monthly coaching calls to help you stay steady and build real connection with your child—especially when things feel tense. Learn more and join at https://www.courageous-connections.com/bridge-to-connection3---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tina is certified in family relationships and a trauma informed coach. Visit tinagosney.com for more information on coaching services.
Do you struggle to connect with your adult child? How do you navigate the pain in a broken parent/child relationship? On the next Equipped with Chris Brooks, Dr. Kathy Koch helps parents Resolve Conflict and Find Peace and Hope with Adult Children. If you need compassionate guidance or real conversation strategies for communicating with your adult kids, don't miss the next Equipped. Featured resources:Resolve Conflict and Find Peace and Hope with Adult Children by Kathy KochWebsite: Celebrating 100 Years of Moody Radio July thank you gift:Resolve Conflict and Find Peace and Hope with Adult Children by Kathy Koch Equipped with Chris Brooks is made possible through your support. To donate now, click here.
Estrangement is one of the deepest forms of grief because the people you long for are still alive. In this episode, I share my personal journey through family estrangement, the complicated emotions that come with it, and how God has met me in the midst of the pain. I also explore estrangement from both the parent's perspective and the adult child's perspective, offering practical tools, biblical encouragement, and trauma-informed insights to help navigate these incredibly complex relationships. We'll talk about boundaries, forgiveness, grief, and the hope that healing is possible—even when reconciliation isn't. If you've ever wrestled with loving someone from a distance, this episode is for you.#FamilyEstrangement #ChristianCounseling #HealingJourney #Boundaries #GriefRecovery #FaithAndHealing #TraumaRecovery #EmotionalHealing #MentalHealth #ChristianPodcast #VictoriousLiving #HopeInChrist #Forgiveness #HealthyBoundaries #HealingIsPossible
Natasha has a family dilemma. She says her parents are very well off and have done incredibly well for themselves, and she's genuinely happy for their success. But her own family is struggling financially, to the point where they're battling to pay school fees. Despite hinting at their situation on several occasions, her parents have never offered any financial support. In fact, they recently bought a holiday home in Umhlanga, while Natasha says her family can barely afford a camping trip. Now she's asking: is this normal? Should parents help their adult children when they're struggling, or is financial independence simply expected once you're grown? Hang out with Anele and The Club on 947 every weekday morning. Popular radio hosts Anele Mdoda, Frankie du Toit, Thembekile Mrototo, and Cindy Poluta take fun to the next level with the biggest guests, hottest conversations, feel-good vibes, and the best music to get you going! Kick-start your day with the most enjoyable way to wake up in Joburg. Connect with Anele and The Club on 947 via WhatsApp at 084 000 0947 or call the studio on 011 88 38 947Thank you for listening to the Anele and the Club podcast..Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 06:00 to 09:00 to Anele and the Club broadcast on 947 https://buff.ly/y34dh8Y For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/gyWKIkl or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/K59GRzu Subscribe to the 947s Weekly Newsletter https://buff.ly/hf9IuR9 Follow us on social media:947 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/947Joburg/ 947 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@947joburg947 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/947joburg947 on X: www.x.com/947 947 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@947JoburgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Adult Children In Recovery - Moving From Insanity To Serenity
Send us Fan MailGreetings Adult-Child,Welcome to another Adult-Child in recovery podcast with my special guest Meghan Margherio.In this episode, we joined hearts & spoke about Meghan's new memoir called “Everwoven” where she openly & candidly spoke about her own chaotic childhood trauma and shared how despite the abuse & neglect she experienced in the past, she has found ways to find her joy and move beyond survival into hope, strength & recovery.MEGAN MARGHERIO is a trauma-informed embodiment coach and the founder of a growing movement to help survivors and sensitive souls reclaim presence, possibility and a sense of home within themselves. Her work lives at the intersection of lived experience and integrative healing, shaped by her own journey through childhood trauma, estrangement, complex PTSD, and the long, slow work of coming back to life.Through writing, somatic practices and soul-centered work, Margherio creates spaces where truth can be spoken, grief can be held, and joy can return — gently and on your own terms. She leads retreats, group programs and healing experiences that honor both the tenderness and resilience of trauma survivors, helping them reconnect to their stories, their bodies and their belonging. Find out more about Margherio & order your copy of her inspiring book on her website https://meghanmargherio.comTo learn a new self-care practice to reconnect with your beloved inner child, visit my website at https://vandanalighthealing.com & connect with me for a virtual cup of tea at https://calendly.com/vandanalighthealing/discovery-callPlease like, subscribe & leave a comment on my Adult-Child podcast & spread the love to all survivors of childhood trauma. Bless you, VandanaSupport the showStay Connected with Vandana Light Healing :✨ Website: vandanalighthealing.com YouTube: @VandanaLightHealing Facebook: VandanaLightHealing Podcast: Hope & Healing LinkedIn: Vandana Atara Noorah Instagram: @vandana_light_healing Amazon Author: Vandana Atara Noorah
Relationships are hard, but why are so many families struggling? Parents and adult kids have strong feelings and opinions, or they may be getting bad counsel. Is it possible to reconcile the relationship even when you disagree? Dr. Joannie DeBrito joins us to tackle this common problem and brings us hope! Sign up for the Weekly Recap HERE to receive free resources on this topic.
Trending with Timmerie - Catholic Principals applied to today's experiences.
Ruth Han – EMDR & CBT trauma-informed therapist – and past homeschool mom joins Trending with Timmerie Episode Guide Why you only allowed your children four college major options—and why (1:38) Your best advice for parents of adult children who disagree on faith and morals (17:55) Addressing the idea of going no contact (26:30) Maintaining relationships without compromising core beliefs (32:15) Homeschooling tips and advice (34:59) Is religion divisive? (38:27) Tomorrow on Trending (51:00) Resources mentioned: Ruth Han https://ruthhan.com https://www.instagram.com/ruthhantherapy/
"If your heart is broken because of your adult child's choices, you're not alone. You've joined the countless parents around the world who are walking through the same, painful emotions. Far too often parents suffer in silent shame when the best thing they can do is lean into hope." Join Shug Bury as she sits down with Jim Burns to talk about his new book, When Your Adult Child Strays. Together, they unpack the growing trend of parent–child estrangement and tackle real-life questions submitted by some of Shug’s closest friends. To learn more about our show, go to him4her.org. To watch our shows, go to our Women's Hot Topics with Shug Bury YouTube channel. For more information on Jim Burns, go to homeword.com.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When we adopted our fifth child, Nicolai, at the age of nine, we never imagined we would end up battling circumstances that would lead to over 100 hospital visits.Today, as an adult, Nicolai has several issues that prevent him from having a normal life. Before we go any further, we do want to let you know that Nicolai gave his permission to share his story. He struggles to manage money and lives primarily in homeless camps. When we do get to see him, our visits are short and typically away from the rest of our adult children.As parents, we've struggled to know how to help him and have learned the hard way that we shouldn't always rescue him from his circumstances. If you or a loved one has an adult child with life-controlling problems like mental illness, addiction, homelessness, or another similar struggle, we hope this deeply honest and vulnerable conversation can be a helpful resource.In this episode, you'll hear:Why you can't make your child's problems go awayHow to lovingly detachHow your child's struggles impact everyone in your familyAnd more!Find resources mentioned and more in the show notes: jillsavage.org/life-controlling-issues-302Check out our other resources:Mark and Jill's Marriage StoryMarriage CoachingMarriage 2.0 IntensivesSpeaking ScheduleBook Mark and Jill to SpeakOnline CoursesBooks Marriage Resources:Infidelity RecoveryFor Happy MarriagesFor Hurting MarriagesFor Marriages Where You're the Only One Wanting to Get Help Mom Resources:New/Preschool MomsMoms with GradeschoolersMoms with Teens and TweensMoms with Kids Who Are LaunchingEmpty Nest Moms
Following a divorce, Ken's daughter struggled with repeated behavioral and emotional challenges that intensified over time. Now 22 years old and recently completing treatment for depression, she needs a stable place to live while continuing her recovery. Call 1-800-DR-LAURA / 1-800-375-2872 or make an appointment at DrLaura.com Follow me on social media: Facebook.com/DrLaura Instagram.com/DrLauraProgram YouTube.com/DrLaura Join My Family!! Receive my Weekly Newsletter + 20% off my Marriage 101 course & 25% off Merch! Sign up now, it's FREE! Each week you'll get new articles, featured emails from listeners, special event invitations, early access to my Dr. Laura Designs Store benefiting Children of Fallen Patriots, and MORE! Sign up at DrLaura.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
The focal point of this podcast episode is an insightful discussion with Dr. Jim Burns regarding his latest literary work, "When Your Adult Child Strays: Trading Heartache for Hope." In this dialogue, we delve into the complexities that arise in parent-child relationships, particularly when adult children make choices that diverge from their upbringing. Dr. Burns provides valuable strategies for navigating these challenging dynamics, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a loving and supportive environment, even amidst disappointment. The episode also highlights the necessity of relinquishing control, allowing adult children to forge their own paths while parents remain a source of unconditional love and grace. Ultimately, we explore how to foster meaningful connections, despite the inevitable struggles of parenting in an ever-evolving landscape.Takeaways: In this episode, Dr. Jim Burns discusses his latest book regarding adult children and their relationship with faith. Maintaining a climate of openness and grace is crucial for parents of adult children who may be straying from their faith. Open communication, love, and trust are foundational elements in rebuilding relationships with adult children who have distanced themselves. Parents must relinquish control and allow their adult children to make their own decisions, even if they are disappointing. Deconstructing faith can be a painful process, yet it may lead to a stronger, more personal relationship with God for the child.
When your adult child walks away from the faith, the heartbreak can be real. So how do you stay connected and continue pointing them toward Jesus without pushing them further away? In this 'Average Joe' conversation, Jim Ramos talks with good friend Kurt Stone. They share practical wisdom and biblical encouragement for parents navigating this difficult season. Learn how to build bridges and faithfully minister to your child while trusting God with the outcome. Want to protect your marriage? Get our free ebook: 7 Guardrails to Protect Your Marriage Before It's Too Late. Has Men in the Arena helped you make a change in your life, small or large? We want to hear your impact story! You can start a ministry to father the fatherless in your church! Learn how with our sponsor, Kids Outdoor Zone at https://kidsoutdoorzone.com/arena.
Hey Rockstars! I have a special guest on the pod today. Please welcome, Kristy Mikell, Rock That Fitness member! Kristy is also a palliative care nurse practitioner who specializes in helping patients and families navigate serious illness, dementia, caregiving, and end-of-life care with compassion. Today's episode is a little different, but I believe in my heart that it's one of the most important conversations that we're ever gonna have on this podcast.Some topics include:⭐️The emotional and practical significance of early end-of-life planning⭐️Differences between palliative care, hospice, and end-of-life options⭐️How to start conversations with aging parents about death and medical wishes⭐️The importance of legal documents: living wills, DNR, healthcare proxies, and advanced directives⭐️How to prepare and store critical legal and medical paperwork⭐️The impact of chronic illnesses and the importance of understanding disease progression⭐️Self-care strategies for caregivers to avoid burnout and stay healthy⭐️The power of data-driven health decisions versus perfectionism⭐️Personal transformation stories related to health habits and mindset shiftsIf you have a chance, please rate and review the podcast so more women just like you can learn more about the Rockstar way! I appreciate you for your support and love ❤️Resources from Kristi:✅Advanced Directives: https://www.caringinfo.org/planning/advance-directives/by-state/?utm_source=chatgpt.com✅Kristi's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ownyourend.co?igsh=cmR1dXBndDFxZzE=✅Peace of mind checklist: https://own-your-end.kit.com/469635dcd3?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAdGRleASULMhleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA8xMjQwMjQ1NzQyODc0MTQAAach0v7Ka_HxuVU5n9klG9MbikRr1y_D2W4kzvDH3Nhh_OtW7RJsvostgVrOaA_aem_yXRW6Fgb1U-xq2znWxqoMA&utm_id=97760_v0_s00_e0_tv3Rock That Fitness Links:⭐️Link to join Rock That Fitness Membership Today https://www.rockthatfitness.com/rock-that-fitness-membership⭐️Join the Rockstar Fit Chicks Weekly Newsletter https://rockthatfitness.kit.com/e10d0c66eb⭐️Check Out Our Exclusive Offer for Extensive Lab Work with Marek Health https://www.rockthatfitness.com/rock-that-fitness-marek-health⭐️Head to the Rock That Fitness Instagram Page https://www.instagram.com/rockthatfitness/ ⭐️Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/cruen/we-got-thisLicense code: RBWENWHGXSWXAEUE
Trisha is struggling with whether to provide additional emotional, financial, and practical support to her adult son, who seeks to enter treatment for addiction after a prolonged period of homelessness. Call 1-800-DR-LAURA / 1-800-375-2872 or make an appointment at DrLaura.com Follow me on social media: Facebook.com/DrLaura Instagram.com/DrLauraProgram YouTube.com/DrLaura Join My Family!! Receive my Weekly Newsletter + 20% off my Marriage 101 course & 25% off Merch! Sign up now, it's FREE! Each week you'll get new articles, featured emails from listeners, special event invitations, early access to my Dr. Laura Designs Store benefiting Children of Fallen Patriots, and MORE! Sign up at DrLaura.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Our Love Expert, Kellie Rasberry, is here to solve your relationship issues!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Benita is seeking clarity and guidance on how to address ongoing challenges related to living with her 36-year-old daughter. The focus is on ending an arrangement of convenience that has become unhealthy and problematic. Call 1-800-DR-LAURA / 1-800-375-2872 or make an appointment at DrLaura.com Follow me on social media: Facebook.com/DrLaura Instagram.com/DrLauraProgram YouTube.com/DrLaura Join My Family!! Receive my Weekly Newsletter + 20% off my Marriage 101 course & 25% off Merch! Sign up now, it's FREE! Each week you'll get new articles, featured emails from listeners, special event invitations, early access to my Dr. Laura Designs Store benefiting Children of Fallen Patriots, and MORE! Sign up at DrLaura.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Today on the show I'm joined by Angie, who's greiving the fact that her adult daughter went “no contact” recently, withdrawing from family activities and isolating her daughter from seeing her grandma. Angie is grieving both the loss of her relationship with her daughter as well as her granddaughter, and wondering if there is anything she can do to move toward reconciliation and connection. I talk her through the building blocks of a safe relationship,what she can and what she can't do, and what it means for her to work on creating a space of safety and security for her adult daughter and their relationship with one another, even through their differences. According to Angie, their differing political views have kept her daughter away, so we spend some time talking about navigating the difficult territory when there is a stark contrast of views and perspectives between two people, whether politically, theologically, or otherwise. This episode is more important in this generation and culture than it ever has been before, so take the time to listen, process, and learn alongside Angie. To go deeper in your relationships with others, grab a copy of People Skills and learn the skills you need to strengthen your relationships. The Debra Fileta Counselors Network: Book a counseling session at the Debra Fileta Counselors Network and get started on your healing journey from the inside out TODAY! DEBRA FILETA is a Licensed Professional Counselor, national speaker, and founder of the Debra Fileta Counselors Network. She is the bestselling author of eight books including Choosing Marriage, Are You Really OK?, RESET, and Soul Care. Debra is the host of the popular podcast and nationally syndicated radio show Talk To Me where she facilitates on-air authentic counseling-style sessions with notable pastors and leaders. You may also recognize her voice from her appearances on national television and radio, including Better Together, The Kirk Cameron Show, Focus on the Family, The 700 Club, and many others. She reaches millions of people each year with the message of mental, emotional, and relational health. Connect with her on Instagram or at DebraFileta.com.
Welcome to The Mental Breakdown and Psychreg Podcast! Today, Dr. Berney and Dr. Marshall discuss unique characteristics of relationships between parents and their adult children. Read the article from Real Simple here. You can now follow Dr. Marshall on twitter, as well! Dr. Berney and Dr. Marshall are happy to announce the release of their new parenting e-book, Handbook for Raising an Emotionally Healthy Child Part 2: Attention. You can get your copy from Amazon here. We hope that you will join us each morning so that we can help you make your day the best it can be! See you tomorrow. Visit Psychreg for blog posts covering a variety of topics within the fields of mental health and psychology. The Parenting Your ADHD Child course is now on YouTube! Check it out at the Paedeia YouTube Channel. The Handbook for Raising an Emotionally Health Child Part 1: Behavior Management is now available on kindle! Get your copy today! The Elimination Diet Manual is now available on kindle and nook! Get your copy today! Follow us on Twitter and Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube Channels, Paedeia and The Mental Breakdown. Please leave us a review on iTunes so that others might find our podcast and join in on the conversation!
Have you ever looked at your adult child and wondered, “How did we get here—and how do I love them without losing myself in fear, grief, or control?” In this powerful episode of Power Your Parenting Moms with Teens, Colleen O'Grady sits down with bestselling author and parenting expert Jim Burns to talk about one of the most painful and confusing seasons of parenting: when an adult child begins to drift—whether from family values, faith, responsibility, or even the relationship itself. Jim shares practical wisdom and deep compassion for parents navigating estrangement, emotional distance, poor choices, or the heartbreak of watching a child struggle in their 20s and 30s. Together, Colleen and Jim discuss how to shift from controlling to connecting, how to set healthy boundaries without pushing your child away, and why staying in the “messy middle” matters more than perfection. Jim Burns is the founder of HomeWord, a ministry dedicated to helping families thrive, and the author of multiple bestselling books including Doing Life with Your Adult Children and When Your Adult Child Strays: Trading Heartache for Hope. He speaks around the world on parenting, marriage, faith, and leadership, and has more than three million resources in print in over 20 languages. Jim and his wife Kathy have three adult daughters and several grandchildren, giving him both professional expertise and lived experience in navigating the emerging adult years. In this conversation, Jim explains why parenting adult children requires an entirely different skill set than parenting teens. He discusses the importance of “giving your child the passport to adulthood,” why unsolicited advice often feels like criticism, and how fear can quietly drive unhealthy parenting patterns. Colleen and Jim also tackle difficult topics like estrangement, deconstruction of faith, enabling versus helping, codependency, and the grief many parents experience when their dreams for their child don't unfold the way they imagined. Throughout the episode, Jim emphasizes that the goal is not controlling your adult child—it's preserving connection, becoming a safe person, and building bridges instead of walls. 3 Takeaways from This Episode: Parenting adult children requires letting go of control while staying emotionally connected. Fear-based parenting often damages relationships, while warmth, listening, and boundaries foster trust. Estrangement and struggles do not mean you failed as a parent—healing and reconnection are still possible. Follow at: https://www.instagram.com/homewordfamily/ Learn More at: https://homeword.com/about/jim-burns/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On this episode of Behind Beautiful Things, Kevin sits down with Tammy, host of the Adult Child of Dysfunction podcast, for a powerful and honest conversation about trauma, healing, and personal transformation. Tammy shares her experience growing up with two alcoholic parents and a mother struggling with drug addiction, and how that environment shaped her early life.In this candid discussion, she explores the lasting impact of childhood trauma, including living in a constant state of hyper vigilance, and how those patterns carried into adulthood. Tammy also opens up about the pivotal moment when she began confronting her past—just as she was preparing to become a mother herself.Together, they dive into her healing journey, including the energy work she practices, as well as the science behind trauma, emotional regulation, and recovery. If you're interested in topics like childhood trauma, inner child healing, addiction recovery, and breaking generational cycles, this episode offers meaningful insight and hope.Tune in to hear Tammy's story of awareness, healing, and reclaiming a healthier future.Please note: This episode contains discussion of sexual abuse and domestic violence — please take care while listening. Check Out Tammy's Work:Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/tammycvincent/LinkTree with all the links: www.linktr.ee/tvincentFree Biofrequency Voice Scan: https://calendly.com/tammyvincent/complimentary-scan-demo Behind Beautiful Things Website: www.sadtimespodcast.com Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/373292146649249Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Instagram: @behindbeautifulthingspodcastLearn more about Kevin's Professional Speaking and Acting at www.kevincrispin.comCheck out Kevin's substack: https://allconviction.substack.com Get your very own “Sad Schwag”: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/hysteria51/albums/253388-sad-times-podcast?ref_id=9022Editorial note: Behind Beautiful Things is committed to sharing various stories from generous guests. The hope is to allow any number of stories to be shared to help people feel less alone and, perhaps, more empathetic. It is important to clarify that the guests' stories, perspectives, and sentiments do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Behind Beautiful Things in any way. Please note that Behind Beautiful Things is in no way a substitute for medical or professional mental health support.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Let us know what you think about the podcast!Episode 127 - Lazy or Stuck? Why Your Adult Child Avoids Life and How to RespondIf you're staring at a “failure to launch” situation and thinking, “Are they lazy… or are they stuck?” — you're not alone. When an adult child avoids responsibility, avoids work, or keeps waiting for rescue, it can feel confusing and infuriating. But in family systems terms, this pattern is often under-functioning, and it usually shows up alongside over-functioning parenting in ways neither side can see clearly from the inside.In this episode, you'll learn:Why “lazy” is usually the wrong label — and what under-functioning adult children are actually doing underneath the surface.How “stop rescuing without cutting off” really works (so you can stop enabling adult children without turning cold or abandoning).The failure to launch family dynamic: how an over-functioning/under-functioning pattern quietly forms and then becomes the normal in a family.Why your adult child won't take responsibility can be tied to self-efficacy (and how repeated rescuing can unintentionally weaken it).What it looks like when an adult child avoids life in different ways (stalled launch, capable avoider, delegator, emotional under-functioning, and more).If your adult child avoids, stalls, or leans on you in ways that keep you both stuck, this episode will help you name the pattern, understand it through a family systems lens, and start making shifts that reduce enabling and increase real responsibility. You don't have to do this perfectly — but you can learn how to respond differently, and when one person becomes more grounded, the whole relationship system can begin to heal. Tina Gosney is the Family Conflict Coach. She works with parents who have families in conflict to help them become the grounded, confident leaders their family needs. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------If you want support putting what you're learning into practice, come join The Connection Community in Bridge to Connection. You'll get step-by-step relationship lessons, practical tools to calm anxiety and reduce conflict, and live monthly coaching calls to help you stay steady and build real connection with your child—especially when things feel tense. Learn more and join at https://www.courageous-connections.com/bridge-to-connection3---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tina is certified in family relationships and a trauma informed coach. Visit tinagosney.com for more information on coaching services.
If you've ever felt completely out of control in a relationship — knowing it's wrong, unable to leave, ashamed of yourself for staying — this conversation is going to make you feel far less alone. Marina sits down with Andrea Ashley, host of Adult Child and The Shitshow podcast, who grew up in an alcoholic home, spent her teens in and out of rehabs, got sober at 19, and still found herself at rock bottom at 28 — trapped in trauma bonds she didn't yet have words for. Andrea shares the story she's never fully told before: the relationship that pulled her back in at her most under-resourced, the friendship betrayal that happened at the worst possible moment, and what it actually took to finally get out. This one is raw, real, and deeply human. Connect with Andrea:https://www.instagram.com/adultchildpod/https://www.adultchildpodcast.com/WORK WITH ME 1:1:❥Softening into self- 3 month 1:1 with Whats App Support:https://marina-yt.mykajabi.com/offers/PAWQhZHu❥❥1:1 Coaching with me: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfWcZM5s9c2OjOLwoGMI5jE6rh_JAzjN2d_vCtuVe7e3pVGxw/viewformDOWNLOAD FOR FREE:Stay or Go: 5 Clarity Questions to Reconnect with Your Inner Knowing: https://marinayt.com/stay-or-go-guideAttatchment Practice: Discover the actual blocks beneath the surface so you can actually have the deep intimacy you crave: https://marinayt.com/attachment-practice Connect & Ground: 10 Incredible Somatic Practices for Nervous System Regulation: https://marinayt.com/connect-and-groundAlive & Aligned: 7 Embodiment Practices For Self Connection: https://marinayt.com/alive-and-alignedTrigger to Rooted: A step by step process of working with your triggers: https://marinayt.com/trigger-2-rooted VIEW MY COURSES & RESOURCES:https://marinayt.com/resources CONNECT WITH ME:Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/marina.y.t Subscribe to YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@marinatriner Top Episode Quotes:"As soon as my fear of abandonment got triggered, I was done. That's how quickly and easily a trauma bond can form." — Andrea Ashley"The fear of abandonment can make someone ten million times more attractive. It's not real feeling — you're just deepening your attachment." — Andrea Ashley"I was so sane and yet so insane at the same time. I could witness exactly what was happening and I still could not stop." — Andrea Ashley"Tending to an alcoholic is the oldest role I know. My nervous system was just reaching for what it knows, what was comfortable." — Andrea Ashley"I have abandonment trauma. I might freak out the first time you take too long to text me back. And I'm not embarrassed about that anymore. If it's the right person, that's not going to push them away." — Andrea Ashleytrauma bond, love addiction, abandonment wound, complex PTSD, adult child of alcoholics, nervous system healing, somatic healing, anxious attachment, fear of abandonment, intermittent reinforcement, codependency healing, childhood trauma, trauma recovery, emotional flashbacks, attachment healing, inner child healing, deep within podcast, Andrea Ashley, Marina Triner, trauma informed healing
Katie knows she's been enabling her troubled daughter, but the thought of stepping back feels unbearable. Having witnessed suicide, battled her own addictions, and lived through deep pain, she fears what could happen if she finally lets go. Call 1-800-DR-LAURA / 1-800-375-2872 or make an appointment at DrLaura.com Follow me on social media: Facebook.com/DrLaura Instagram.com/DrLauraProgram YouTube.com/DrLaura Join My Family!! Receive my Weekly Newsletter + 20% off my Marriage 101 course & 25% off Merch! Sign up now, it's FREE! Each week you'll get new articles, featured emails from listeners, special event invitations, early access to my Dr. Laura Designs Store benefiting Children of Fallen Patriots, and MORE! Sign up at DrLaura.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This week, our Agony Aunties tackle a dilemma that is becoming the "new normal" for many: the 30-something child who simply won't fly the nest. When a listener writes in feeling a mix of deep love and growing resentment toward her 33-year-old son, the team explores how to transition from a parent-child dynamic to a boundary-led adult relationship. From discussing the "maturation crisis" among young men to the financial realities of modern housing, they offer a toolkit for having the "big talk" without it sounding like a rejection. It's a thoughtful look at why multigenerational living doesn't have to be a failure - it just needs a serious reorientation of expectations and a naming of the "silent things" in the room. Send in your question to jsamuelpod@gmail.com More from Therapy Works: Subscribe to the Therapy Works Substack for guidance on everyday struggles and access to Julia's monthly live webinar: https://juliasamuel.substack.com/ Grieving someone you love? Julia's Grief Works Support Programme offers structured, expert-led help, with 94% of people reporting feeling better after using it. As a podcast listener you can get 25% off plus a 30-day money-back guarantee here - www.griefworks.com/therapy Follow Julia on Instagram: @juliasamuelmbe for tips, tools, and conversations about navigating life's challenges. If you enjoy this episode, please consider rating, reviewing, and subscribing - it makes a big difference and helps others discover these conversations. If you need help finding a therapist, visit: The Samuel Therapy Practice Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Let us know what you think about the podcast!Episode 216 - Boundaries with Your Adult Child: Stepping Back When You're Used to Being NeededIf you're a parent of an adult child and you're still worrying, managing, advising, and rescuing — this episode is for you. Today we're diving deep into the over-functioning parent dynamic: what it is, why it happens, and what it's really costing both you and your child. Drawing on Bowen Family Systems and attachment research, we unpack the four hidden drivers of parental over-functioning — from distrust and anxiety to identity and fear — and explore what it actually looks like to prepare your child for the road, instead of trying to clear it for them. Tina Gosney is the Family Conflict Coach. She works with parents who have families in conflict to help them become the grounded, confident leaders their family needs. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Connect with us:Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/tinagosneycoaching/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tinagosneycoaching---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tina is certified in family relationships and a trauma informed coach. Visit tinagosney.com for more information on coaching services.
Mary is experiencing an extremely difficult period following the loss of her daughter due to complications from a breast cancer battle. Call 1-800-DR-LAURA / 1-800-375-2872 or make an appointment at DrLaura.com Follow me on social media: Facebook.com/DrLaura Instagram.com/DrLauraProgram YouTube.com/DrLaura Join My Family!! Receive my Weekly Newsletter + 20% off my Marriage 101 course & 25% off Merch! Sign up now, it's FREE! Each week you'll get new articles, featured emails from listeners, special event invitations, early access to my Dr. Laura Designs Store benefiting Children of Fallen Patriots, and MORE! Sign up at DrLaura.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Let us know what you think about the podcast!Episode 214: When Your Adult Child Chooses Their Spouse Over You: How to Stay GroundedPart 5 in the Series: How To Deal with Your Adult Child's Difficult SpouseWhat if the goal was never to fix your family… but to become steady inside it?If you've been walking on eggshells with your adult child, feeling pulled between self-blame, defensiveness, and powerlessness, this episode brings you to the final stage: growth.But not the kind of growth that depends on your child changing, their spouse calming down, or the relationship suddenly becoming easy.This is about something deeper. More sustainable.This is about becoming the calm center in an anxious family system.In this episode, you'll learn what it actually means to practice differentiation, how to stop being pulled into emotional reactivity, and how to respond to your adult child from a place of grounded, values-based connection—even when things are still hard.Because healing in family relationships doesn't start with them.It starts with how you show up.What You'll Learn in This Episode:How to define true growth in family relationships (and why it has nothing to do with outcomes you can't control)What differentiation in family systems really looks like in real-life interactions with your adult childWhy anxious family systems stay stuck—and how one grounded parent can begin to shift the patternHow to separate your self-worth from your child's behavior, reactions, or their spouse's perceptionsA simple, practical tool—the Values Pause—to help you respond with clarity, steadiness, and emotional maturity in hard momentsThis episode walks you through the final stage of the emotional journey many parents face when navigating adult child estrangement, conflict, or tension with a difficult spouse.If you've ever felt like:“No matter what I do, it's never the right thing”“I just want things to feel normal again”“I don't know how to show up without making it worse”You are not alone—and you are not stuck.There is a way to stay connected without losing yourself.There is a way to be loving without overfunctioning.There is a way to become a safe, steady presence in your family—even if nothing else changes right away. Tina Gosney is the Family Conflict Coach. She works with parents who have families in conflict to help them become the grounded, confident leaders their family needs. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Connect with us:Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/tinagosneycoaching/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tinagosneycoaching---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tina is certified in family relationships and a trauma informed coach. Visit tinagosney.com for more information on coaching services.
In this episode, Kristen dives into how to help your teen or adult child through a breakup and what parents might be missing when it comes to understanding their child's pain, reactions, and healing. You will learn: How breakups impact teens and young adults differently and why no two experiences are the same Why it's important for parents to notice their own emotional triggers during their child's breakup How to "hold space" so your child feels safe to open up and process their emotions The different types of breakups and the wide range of emotions that can come with them Why rushing healing or trying to "fix" the pain can actually make things harder Healthy ways teens can process a breakup so they don't repeat the same relationship patterns Subscribe HERE and get a free 5-day journal to begin closing the chapter on what doesn't serve you and open the door to the real you. Connect with Kristen: Get Kristen's newsletter, packed with tangible tools, resources, and inspiration Watch the episodes on YouTube Follow Kristen on Instagram Kristen's TikTok Have Kristen Speak at Your Event Disclaimer This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only. It is being provided to you to educate you about ideas on stress management and as a self-help tool for your own use. It is not psychotherapy/counseling in any form. This information is to be used at your own risk based on your own judgment. For counseling services near Indianapolis, IN, visit www.pathwaystohealingcounseling.com. Pathways to Healing Counseling's vision is to provide warm, caring, compassionate and life-changing counseling services and educational programs to individuals, couples and families in order to create learning, healing and growth.
When your adult child pulls away, it can feel like something in your life has quietly broken. You struggle with heartbreak, confusion, and a strong desire to make things right again. You notice the conversations change, the connection shifts, and you're left holding questions you never thought you'd have to ask. What happened? What do I do now? Will this ever be restored? If you're walking through distance, silence, or estrangement with your child, I want you to hear me: You are not alone. And this is not beyond repair. In this episode, I'm walking you through what research actually shows about why estrangement happens and, more importantly, what begins to repair it. Because many of the instincts parents have in this season, while understandable, often push the relationship further away. We're going to talk about what actually helps. How trust is rebuilt. Why emotional safety matters more than being right. And what it looks like to stay steady when everything in you wants to fix it quickly. This situation is not about quick answers or perfect conversations. It took time to get to this point; it will take time to restore and mend the fractures. We want to focus on becoming the kind of parent your adult child can move toward again. And if you're carrying the deeper fear, "What if they never come back?" We'll address that too. Because even in the silence, God is still at work. In you. In them. And in the story that's still unfolding. Don't lose hope. Join me if you or someone you know is living Read the full listener notes with links here: When Your Adult Child Pulls Away: What Actually Repairs the Relationship Connect with Connie: Podcast: Equipped To Be IG: @conniealbers FB: ConnieAlbers.Author X: @ConnieLAlbers If you enjoy listening to Parenting and Homeschool Advice ~ Equipped To Be with Connie Albers, please leave a review and a five-star rating. It is easy and will only take a few seconds. When you do, it helps others see the show in their feed. Also, would you kindly share this with a friend or two? Equipped To Be might be an encouragement to them, too. Thank you ~ Connie Have a question? Interested in having Connie speak? Send an email to Connie here: https://conniealbers.com/contact/
Let us know what you think about the podcast!Episode 213 - You Can't Fix Your Adult Child's Marriage: When You Feel Powerless, part 4 of the series about your adult child's difficult spouse.If you've tried everything—rewriting texts, walking on eggshells, apologizing for things you're not sure you did—and the relationship still feels strained, this episode is for you. We talk about what powerlessness really is, why shame and grief often come with it, and how to shift from trying to control outcomes to holding steady influence.What we coverWhy powerlessness isn't weakness—it's your nervous system realizing: my effort does not equal my outcomeThe shame story (“good parents don't give up”) and why it's incompleteThe grief inside powerlessness (not just sadness—loss of the future you imagined)The difference between influence vs. control in an anxious family systemA practical way to stay warm and connected without chasing them.5 takeawaysPowerlessness is a turning point, not a failure: it's the moment you stop confusing love with control.Over-functioning and cutting off are both understandable reactions—but both tend to raise anxiety in the system.If you don't grieve, you'll try to control. Let grief be named so you don't turn it into frantic fixing or shutdown.You can't control them, but you can influence the system by becoming steadier “from the inside out.”Boundaries aren't demands—they're clarity about how you'll participate, delivered with kindness.If this episode helped you feel less alone, share it with a friend—especially a parent who's quietly carrying the weight of powerlessness. Tina Gosney is the Family Conflict Coach. She works with parents who have families in conflict to help them become the grounded, confident leaders their family needs. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Connect with us:Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/tinagosneycoaching/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tinagosneycoaching---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tina is certified in family relationships and a trauma informed coach. Visit tinagosney.com for more information on coaching services.
In this episode of The Forgotten Podcast, Jami sits down with Renaut van der, Lead Pastor of Mosaic Church in Orlando, Florida, to discuss the difficult and often unspoken challenge faced by adoptive and foster parents: what to do when your adult child rejects you. Renaut and his wife, Brooke, are parents to eight children, including four adopted from Ethiopia. Renaut shares the deeply personal and painful experience of having two adopted daughters cut off relationship and label the family as "toxic" and "abusive". The conversation frames this experience using the prodigal child paradigm to provide a biblical framework for navigating this complexity. Renaut discusses the tension between pursuing and letting go, distinguishing between normal rebellion and the child wanting the parents' provision ("stuff") but not the relationship ("you"). He offers practical guidance on setting boundaries, parenting the children who remain in the home, and maintaining an open heart while trusting God with the timing of potential reconciliation, reminding listeners that they are in a "safe story, just a dangerous chapter". About the Guest Renaut van der is the Lead Pastor of Mosaic Church in Orlando, Florida, which he and his wife, Brooke, planted in 2002. Together, they have eight children, four of whom were adopted from Axo, Ethiopia. Renaut is transparent about his family's experience with two adult daughters cutting off contact, prompting him to find a functional, biblical approach to dealing with the personal rejection and pursuit of a prodigal child. In This Episode - The personal experience of two adopted daughters rejecting the family and creating a narrative of abuse and toxicity. - How the "prodigal child" paradigm helps parents navigate personal rejection and pursuit with a biblical framework. - Distinguishing between typical rebellion and the prodigal essence, which is a child wanting the parent's stuff but not the parent. - The necessity of progressively removing transactional pieces of the relationship to stop affirming that non-relational dynamic. - The importance of directing energy toward parenting the children who stayed, to ensure the grief over the prodigal does not steal attention from them. - Guidance on handling sibling dynamics, including how to set boundaries with the children who remain connected to the rejected adult child. - How to keep the "porch light on" in your heart and set relational protocols for a progressive return and reconciliation. - Finding peace and comfort by reminding yourself that you are in a "safe story, just a dangerous chapter" Resources + Links Learn more about The Forgotten Initiative Learn more about what at TFI Advocate does
He quit. He won’t help. And now the resentment is building. When your adult child refuses to launch, it’s easy to label it as entitlement—but what if that’s not the real problem? In this episode, we unpack what’s really going on for young men who feel stuck… and how to support them without enabling the behaviour that’s driving you crazy. KEY POINTS Why more young men are disengaging from work, study, and responsibility The difference between supporting and enabling The “low bar” that actually sets kids apart in the real world How to have productive conversations without triggering defensiveness The 3-step framework: Explore, Explain, Empower Why gentle reminders work better than constant conflict How accountability builds motivation (without nagging) QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “You don’t have to have it all figured out—but you do have to be doing something.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Boys: Building Strong Young Men from the Inside Out by Dr Justin Coulson ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Start with curiosity, not criticism: ask what’s really going on Set clear expectations for contribution at home Replace lectures with short, calm reminders Hold weekly check-ins: what worked, what didn’t, what’s next Focus on effort and progress, not perfect direction See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
"What To Do When Your Adult Son and His Girlfriend Are Shacking Up" - Listen to my Morning Monologue: I'm sharing my take on pressing issues, enlightening research on human behavior, answering questions I get by email, and my favorite, most instructive interactions with callers. Everything you'll hear is designed to help you become a better spouse, parent, family member, co-worker, friend, and human being. It's the free therapy you need! Call 1-800-DR-LAURA / 1-800-375-2872 or make an appointment at DrLaura.com Follow me on social media: Facebook.com/DrLaura Instagram.com/DrLauraProgram YouTube.com/DrLaura Join My Family!! Receive my Weekly Newsletter + 20% off my Marriage 101 course & 25% off Merch! Sign up now, it's FREE! Each week you'll get new articles, featured emails from listeners, special event invitations, early access to my Dr. Laura Designs Store benefiting Children of Fallen Patriots, and MORE! Sign up at DrLaura.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.