Podcasts about raising teens

This week, the Fishes are serving up wisdom, laughs, and a big ol' side of reality as they tackle what it means to be part of the Sandwich Generation — that squeezed-in-the-middle season of life where you're caring for aging parents while still raising (or launching) your own kids. Special guest and longtime friend Jane Mlenar joins the pod to share her candid, moving, and often hilarious experience navigating elder care, college kids in crisis, and the emotional load that comes with it all. Plus, we talk sourdough starters, Cuban sandwiches, and why jalapeños do not belong in your wine.

Y'all ever feel like you're talking to a brick wall when it comes to your teenagers? In this raw and real episode, I'm breaking down the struggles of parenting high school kids in today's world - from college prep to work ethics that'll have you scratching your head.Here's what you're getting in this no-holds-barred conversation:1. The truth about why your 14-year-old needs to start thinking about college now2. How to navigate the "money rules everything" mindset without losing your cool3. Why yesterday's parenting playbook won't cut it with today's teens4. The real talk on discrimination and how it shapes our kids' futures5. Practical tips for communicating with your teen without pushing them awayWhether you're struggling to connect with your high schooler or just want to understand what's going on in their heads, this episode will give you the tools to bridge that gap. Are you ready to get real about raising teens in 2025?

In this episode, I sit down with Sybil Manahan, proud mom of two teenage girls and owner of Haute Glam Studio in Johnson City, TN.Sybil shares what it's like navigating the teen years while running a thriving salon—and how motherhood has shaped her leadership and vision. We cover:What life looks like with teens at home and a business to leadThe hardest seasons she's faced balancing family and workHow she's learned to let go of guilt and stay presentThe boundaries that keep her business (and home!) running smoothlySybil's wisdom is so needed for moms at any stage, but especially for those navigating the later seasons of motherhood while chasing big business dreams.

Today, Amy Lowe and Emily Alters sit down with two incredible parents who have launched their kids into adulthood and are now navigating the empty nest season—Jeff Stryker and Lynn Alters. Between them, Jeff and Lynn bring decades of parenting wisdom to the table. Both of their families have deep roots at WinShape Camps, with kids who spent summers growing up at camp and are now faithfully following Jesus in their own unique callings. These two empty nesters reflect on their parenting journeys—sharing both meaningful wins and honest missteps—and offer practical advice and encouragement for moms and dads still in the thick of it. Whether you're raising little ones or teenagers, their insight brings encouragement and perspective for the road ahead.Parenting truth we're holding onto today: You won't do everything perfectly—but being intentional, present, and Christ-centered matters more than you think.Plus: Don't miss what Jeff and Lynn are still learning—even after raising kids into adulthood.--Question of the Week: What is something I'm doing well (as a parent)? What is something I could work on (as a parent)?--Hosts: Amy Lowe & Emily AltersGuest: Lynn Alters, Jeff StrykerProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun--Learn more about WinShape Camps at WinShapeCamps.org!Instagram: @WinShapeCampsTikTok: @WinShapeCampsFacebook: @WinShapeCamps

Would you like to have today's episode in written form? Consider joining our Patreon! It's a fantastic place to connect with other praying moms, and get lots of free prayer resources to help you make prayer a more practical priority! Your support helps Million Praying Moms keep this podcast going—all funds provide for the work of the team and systems necessary to bring you a new episode each weekday Would you be a part of His provision? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Guest Bio: Amy Betters-Midtvedt, author of You'll Make It (And They Will Too), is a Today Parenting contributing author with more than a million readers and twenty-five years of experience working with adolescents and families. In her job as a literacy coach and in her personal life—where she and husband, Todd, wrangle their five children—she is surrounded by kids and teens and is passionate about serving them. Amy has a master's degree in leadership, curriculum, and instruction.    Show Summary: As a parent, you go through different stages with your kids. The newborn stage, toddler stage, kid stage, and eventually the dreaded pre-teen and teenage phases! Each phase comes with a lot of questions and concerns, but at the end of the day, you just want to feel connected to your kiddos. Amy Betters-Midtvedt has been in the thick of raising teens since her first child of five reached that life stage. With her witty sense of humor, laugh alongside Amy as she shares advice for raising and loving your teens . Join hosts, Eryn Eddy Adkins and Vivian Mabuni as they chat with Amy about raising teenagers during this God Hears Her conversation.    Notes and Quotes:   “I will tell you that raising teens has brought me to my knees. And really in those moments when I'm outside their ‘doors' that [my teens] don't want to let me in, knowing that Jesus is on the other side. . . somehow He with them and still with me on the other side of that door.” —Amy Betters-Midtvedt  “What I'm holding onto [when raising my teens], and what's working for us, is this: Is every move going to keep me in connection and in relationship with my teenager?” —Amy Betters-Midtvedt   “If we are trying to teach [our teens] about being in relationships with others, there [are] consequences if you don't live up to what you say you're going to do. But it's really involving them in the situation, because different situations call for different things.” —Amy Betters-Midtvedt   Links:   Amy's Website: https://amybettersmidtvedt.com/book/  Amy's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amy.betters.midtvedt/  God Hears Her website: https://godhearsher.org/  God Hears Her email sign-up: https://www.godhearsher.org/sign-upsfmc   Subscribe on iTunes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/god-hears-her-podcast/id1511046507?utm_source=applemusic&utm_medium=godhearsher&utm_campaign=podcast  Elisa's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elisamorganauthor/  Eryn's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eryneddy/  Vivian's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vivmabuni/  Our Daily Bread Ministries website: https://www.odbm.org/    MB01KRFOJL9SSK5

Guest Bio: Amy Betters-Midtvedt, author of You'll Make It (And They Will Too), is a Today Parenting contributing author with more than a million readers and twenty-five years of experience working with adolescents and families. In her job as a literacy coach and in her personal life—where she and husband, Todd, wrangle their five children—she is surrounded by kids and teens and is passionate about serving them. Amy has a master's degree in leadership, curriculum, and instruction.    Show Summary: As a parent, you go through different stages with your kids. The newborn stage, toddler stage, kid stage, and eventually the dreaded pre-teen and teenage phases! Each phase comes with a lot of questions and concerns, but at the end of the day, you just want to feel connected to your kiddos. Amy Betters-Midtvedt has been in the thick of raising teens since her first child of five reached that life stage. With her witty sense of humor, laugh alongside Amy as she shares advice for raising and loving your teens . Join hosts, Eryn Eddy Adkins and Vivian Mabuni as they chat with Amy about raising teenagers during this God Hears Her conversation.    Notes and Quotes:   “I will tell you that raising teens has brought me to my knees. And really in those moments when I'm outside their ‘doors' that [my teens] don't want to let me in, knowing that Jesus is on the other side. . . somehow He with them and still with me on the other side of that door.” —Amy Betters-Midtvedt  “What I'm holding onto [when raising my teens], and what's working for us, is this: Is every move going to keep me in connection and in relationship with my teenager?” —Amy Betters-Midtvedt   “If we are trying to teach [our teens] about being in relationships with others, there [are] consequences if you don't live up to what you say you're going to do. But it's really involving them in the situation, because different situations call for different things.” —Amy Betters-Midtvedt   Links:   Amy's Website: https://amybettersmidtvedt.com/book/  Amy's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amy.betters.midtvedt/  God Hears Her website: https://godhearsher.org/  God Hears Her email sign-up: https://www.godhearsher.org/sign-upsfmc   Subscribe on iTunes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/god-hears-her-podcast/id1511046507?utm_source=applemusic&utm_medium=godhearsher&utm_campaign=podcast  Elisa's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elisamorganauthor/  Eryn's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eryneddy/  Vivian's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vivmabuni/  Our Daily Bread Ministries website: https://www.odbm.org/    MB01KRFOJL9SSK5

What's the secret to connecting with your boys in meaningful ways? In today's episode, Amy and Sara are joined by Sara's husband, Chase Jones—a Licensed Professional Counselor and Marriage & Family Therapist—to unpack how parents can build strong connections with their sons. Drawing from his years of counseling experience, Chase shares insights on common struggles boys face, the key ingredients for meaningful connection, and practical ways parents can encourage, support, and lead their boys. From pulling them out of the digital world to cultivating leadership and resilience, this episode is packed with expert advice, real-life wisdom, and a reflective question to spark meaningful conversations in your family.The 5 Love Languages QuizBook: The Anxious GenerationArticle: 5 Ways to Shore up Boys' Social SkillsBlog: A Father's Devotion: The Question of Abundant Living--Question of the Week: What makes it hard to be a boy in today's world? What makes it hard to be a girl in today's world?--Hosts: Amy Lowe & Sara JonesGuest: Chase JonesProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun--Learn more about WinShape Camps at WinShapeCamps.org!Instagram: @WinShapeCampsTikTok: @WinShapeCampsFacebook: @WinShapeCamps

How do your cultural roots and childhood experiences shape the way you parent? In this episode, Pei-I introduces Eloho, a mother of teenage twins, radio host, and entrepreneur, as the new co-host for Season 2. Together, we explore the powerful impact of culture, faith, and upbringing on parenting styles, revealing how their unique journeys as a Taiwanese Systemic Family psychotherapist and a Nigerian mother influences their approach to raising teens. Eloho shares candid stories about guiding her daughter through bullying, empowering her son to find his voice, and navigating the challenges of parenting in the digital age—all while balancing her faith, career, and family life. Drawing on systemic and family psychotherapy, Pei-I and Eloho uncover actionable insights to help parents break free from old patterns, foster connection, and empower their teens with confidence. This raw, unfiltered conversation is a must-listen for any parent seeking clarity, compassion, and growth in their family relationships.” -----------------------------------------------------------------

Do you and your husband argue about how to raise your teen? Is it hard for you to see eye-to-eye when it comes to how you should approach conflict with your daughter? Do you or your husband feel like the outcast in the family? Raising teenagers can be tough in one's marriage.  Sometimes we allow our parenting to get in the way of our vows we've made with our spouse.  Today, I am sharing 3 tips I have used myself to keep my marriage front and center while we raised our children through the teenage years.    Are you looking for ways to communicate with your girl so she can start opening up to you? Do you want to understand why is it so hard to approach your girl? Are you stuck on how to approach your teenage daughter in conversation without her freaking out?   SIGN UP FOR TALK TO YOUR TEEN GIRL FRAMEWORK!!  A 6-WEEK JOURNEY TO SHIFT HOW YOU COMMUNICATE SO SHE CAN COME TO YOU!   You'll walk away with a deeper understanding the changes happening to your girl, Equipped in your new role as COACH in this teen stage, and establish better communication pathways to connect and grow closer with your daughter   Imagine if you and your daughter can finally have conversations at a level where she doesn't need to hide anything from you! Plus, you'll get to meet other mamas who are all in the same boat.... SIGN UP HERE!      You can find me here: Work with me:  www.talktyourteengirl.com Connect: hello@jeanniebaldomero.com Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/raisingherconfidently Free mom support community: www.raisingherconfidently.com

At your wits end with trying to find effective consequences for your teen's behavior? Maybe loosening the reins rather than tightening them might work better! (Hint: Stop 'helicopter parenting' your teen!) On this episode of the Brainy Moms podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy interview Ann Coleman, an attorney, parent educator, and host of the podcast, Speaking of Teens.  Ann shares a deeply personal journey that many parents might find all too relatable. Imagine discovering that your child, already grappling with anxiety and ADHD, has turned to marijuana. Anne's initial reaction was to tighten the reins through control and punishment, only to watch her relationship with her son deteriorate. However, a transformative encounter with a family counselor led her to embrace empathy and understanding, an approach she now champions through her podcast and Parent Camp program.Ann's story prompts us to question the long-held belief in helicopter parenting and its impact on teen autonomy. As we talk about societal pressures that push teenagers to behave beyond their developmental capabilities, there's a stark reminder of the importance of mutual respect. The conversation veers into the pitfalls of projecting perfect family lives on social media and the real harm it can cause by stigmatizing parenting struggles. We emphasize the need for balance—between stepping in to guide teens and allowing teens to face natural consequences—a critical factor that can significantly influence adolescent development.Through personal anecdotes and expert advice, we explore the pressures surrounding academic success and the value of redefining what it means to "succeed." From managing the distractions of college life to understanding the significance of setting and negotiating boundaries, this episode offers a comprehensive look at fostering resilience and independence in teenagers. Ann's insights, enriched by her own family experiences, serve as a guide for parents eager to connect with their teens in more authentic and supportive ways. Listen in to discover strategies that respect and nurture your teenager's emerging identity while maintaining a safe and supportive environment.CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.comSandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLadyDr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGraceDr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2461: Dr. Timothy Loving explores how parental negativity toward teen dating can unintentionally lead to increased relationship violence. Drawing on research, he highlights how discouraging dating or mistrusting partners fosters conflict and mistrust in adolescents, ultimately impacting their ability to form healthy relationships. Parents are encouraged to adopt a supportive and open approach to guide teens effectively. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.luvze.com/whats-a-parent-to-do-raising-teens-to-having-healthy-relatio/ Quotes to ponder: "Parents' negativity about their kids' dating can spill over into the child's relationships, increasing conflict and mistrust." "It is somewhat ironic that parents' efforts to protect their children by discouraging dating are tied to greater risk of violence." "Not trusting others is generally not a good way to approach relationships as a lack of trust increases opportunities for conflict." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this transformative episode, Dr. Rangan Chatterjee, renowned doctor, author, and podcast host, shares his groundbreaking approach to health, happiness, and resilience. Drawing from over 23 years of medical practice and personal growth, Dr. Chatterjee dives deep into the root causes of our behaviors, the power of reframing emotional triggers, and the profound role of self-awareness in creating lasting change. Sponsors: LolaVie: Get 15% off LolaVie with code GABBY15 at https://www.lolavie.com/GABBY15! #lolaviepod Jenni Kayne: Find your forever pieces @jennikayne and get 15% off with promo code REECE15 at jennikayne.com/REECE15! #jennikaynepartner Bon Charge: My listeners get 25% off with this holiday sale when you order from boncharge.com and use my exclusive promo code GABBY25 at checkout. Chapters: [00:00:00] Introduction: Dr. Rangan Chatterjee's Journey in Wellness and Health [00:08:00] The Roots of Behavioral Change: Why We Act the Way We Do [00:16:00] Parenting Insights: Lessons from Raising Teens [00:24:00] Emotional Triggers and the Power of Reframing [00:32:00] Building Emotional Resilience Through Daily Practices [00:40:00] Community and Connection: The Dual Power of Self-Reliance and Giving [00:48:00] The Role of Forgiveness in Physical and Mental Health [00:56:00] Breaking Free from External Validation [01:04:00] Becoming Your Own Health Expert [01:16:00] How to Cultivate Inner Peace in a World Full of Noise [01:24:00] From Expert Advice to Inner Wisdom: Becoming Your Own Health Authority [01:32:00] The Power of Forgiveness: Healing Your Mind and Body [01:35:01] Closing Reflections: A Journey Toward Lasting Change To hear more from Dr. Chatterjee, check out his podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@DrChatterjeeRangan For More Gabby Reece: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabbyreece/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gabbyreeceofficial The Gabby Reece Show Podcast on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeEINLNlGvIceFOP7aAZk5A Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of “Decoding Seafood,” host George Durand dives into the challenges and rewards of involving teenagers in the kitchen. Joined by special guest Anca Toderic, a culinary storyteller and mother of five, they explore how cooking can bridge generational gaps and create meaningful family connections. Anca shares her unique experiences of raising teens with a love for food, from her adopted daughters to her teenage sons, and even her pandemic baby. Discover practical tips, heartwarming stories, and the transformative power of making the kitchen the heart of the home. Whether your teen is a budding chef or a reluctant cook, this episode offers valuable insights to inspire and engage the whole family.

Navigating the teenage years can feel overwhelming, but it's also a crucial time to nurture your child's faith. In this episode, Amy and Sara sit down with Alecia Bryant, Brand Owner and Content Editor for The Gospel Project for Students at Lifeway, to uncover four practical ways parents can disciple their teens. Whether you're feeling lost or just looking for fresh ideas, this conversation is packed with encouragement and actionable insights to help you make a lasting impact on your teenager's faith journey. Tune in now! Blog: A Message for Moms Battling ExhaustionPodcast Episode: Surrounding Kids with Faith InfluencesResource: Lifeway's Parent PartnerResource: Lifeway's Bible Studies for GirlsResource: Axis Bible Newsletter--Questions of the Week: What is the hardest part of living out your faith as a teenager? Do you have someone in your life disciplining you right now?--Hosts: Amy Lowe & Sara JonesGuest: Alecia BryantProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun--Learn more about WinShape Camps at WinShapeCamps.org!Instagram: @WinShapeCampsTikTok: @WinShapeCampsFacebook: @WinShapeCamps

We've reached the conclusion of The Danish Way of Raising Teens! If you'd like to read along with us, you can find the book here: https://amzn.to/4dF3XE0 Our next book will be Better Than College by Blake Boles. If you'd like to read along with us, you can find that book here: https://amzn.to/478vISP ((Hey there! Just a quick note.... sometimes, but not always, we share affiliate links. We only share products we use and love! It doesn't cost you anything extra to order through our link, but it does help support our podcast. We appreciate your help!)) Let's continue the conversation on Patreon! We host live meet-ups 2x/month and can't wait to meet you. Join here: https://bit.ly/3X5R0gIHomeschoolers love a good rabbit hole! Dig in deeper with our helpful links: https://linktr.ee/homeschoolmomsunfiltered Would you like personalized coaching from Meagan or Amanda (or both)???? We offer consultation services. Feel free to take a look at our respective bios and book a time that is convenient for you.https://calendly.com/homeschoolmomsunfilteredCome hang out with us! Join our FB group for fun and support:https://www.facebook.com/groups/homeschoolmomsunfiltered Let's be friends!!! Follow us on social media for giveaways and updates!!IG: https://www.instagram.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered/TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@homeschoolmomsunfiltered?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcFB: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolmomsunfilteredLove Homeschool Moms Unfiltered and want to show your support? https://www.buymeacoffee.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered

Discover the way ahead at Indiana Wesleyan University.Liberty University can help you get there. Learn more here. Parenting teenagers is fun and challenging all at once. You get to enjoy them being more independent but also have to navigate how to let them be independent while still guiding them in making good choices that they want to make on their own. In today's episode, Quinn encourages listeners to stay sane while parenting teens by: 1. Teaching parents how to not take it personally when your teen doesn't enjoy you 2. Remembering the importance of protecting them digitally but giving them real life freedom 3. Giving grace when they make mistakes because they will Mind Renewal Tip: Even mature teens are immature! There brains aren't fully developed so don't be surprised when they show it. Scripture Renewal Tip: Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6

A Prayer for Raising Teens Isaiah 40:29-31   Would you like to have today's episode in written form? Consider joining our Patreon! It's a fantastic place to connect with other praying moms, and get lots of free prayer resources to help you make prayer a more practical priority!  Your support helps Million Praying Moms keep this podcast going—all funds provide for the work of the team and systems necessary to bring you a new episode each weekday Would you be a part of His provision? GO DEEPER FREE RESOURCE: Summer of Prayers FREE: Join the Everyday Prayers Podcast Facebook Group   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Raising Teens in these times is trying. There are so many things they encounter that we never had to face at their age. Moving across country with your family in an RV is just the icing on the cake of a turbulent teen experience. Join me and Anna while she shares her testimony about her own Teen Troubles in this TWO part Stay At Home, Mom podcast series. Don't forget to check out our AFFILIATES: Toups & Co https://toupsandco.com/lesleygoodgasell Not Consumed Ministries: https://store.notconsumed.com?aff=554 Kitsch: https://www.mykitsch.com/pages/shop?lc_ambassador_id=Y3VzdG9tZXI6NTg4MjQ2NA CODE: LESLEY15 Goatcare.com: https://goatcare.com/?bg_ref=3gjev0Hbn9 CODE: LESLEY Instagram: https://instragram.com/stayathomemomgoody?igshid=ZGUzMzM3NWJiOQ== If you have any tips, insight or comments you would love to share please send emails to stayathomemomgoody@outlook.com

Welcome to book club! We are continuing our discussion of The Danish Way of Raising Teens. In this episode we'll be discussing chapters 7 & 8. If you'd like to read The Danish Way of Raising Teens by Iben Dissing Sandahl, you can pick up a copy here: https://amzn.to/4dF3XE0 Our next book club selection will be Better Than College by Blake Boles. If you like to read along with us, grab your copy here: https://amzn.to/478vISP ((Hey there! Just a quick note.... sometimes, but not always, we share affiliate links. We only share products we use and love! It doesn't cost you anything extra to order through our link, but it does help support our podcast. We appreciate your help!)) Let's continue the conversation on Patreon! We host live meet-ups 2x/month and can't wait to meet you. Join here: https://bit.ly/3X5R0gIHomeschoolers love a good rabbit hole! Dig in deeper with our helpful links: https://linktr.ee/homeschoolmomsunfiltered Would you like personalized coaching from Meagan or Amanda (or both)???? We offer consultation services. Feel free to take a look at our respective bios and book a time that is convenient for you.https://calendly.com/homeschoolmomsunfilteredCome hang out with us! Join our FB group for fun and support:https://www.facebook.com/groups/homeschoolmomsunfiltered Let's be friends!!! Follow us on social media for giveaways and updates!!IG: https://www.instagram.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered/TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@homeschoolmomsunfiltered?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcFB: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolmomsunfilteredLove Homeschool Moms Unfiltered and want to show your support? https://www.buymeacoffee.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered

We are continuing our discussion about The Danish Way of Raising Teens. We are trying to figure out why the Danes are so darn happy! Even if you don't have teens, come join us. This book is applicable to all stages of parenting. In this episode, we'll be discussing chapters 5 & 6. If you'd like to read along with us, you can buy the book here: ⁠https://amzn.to/4dF3XE0⁠ (((Psst. That's an affiliate link. It doesn't cost you anything extra to use our link, but we sure do appreciate it!)))) Let's continue the conversation on Patreon! We host live meet-ups 2x/month and can't wait to meet you. Join here: https://bit.ly/3X5R0gIHomeschoolers love a good rabbit hole! Dig in deeper with our helpful links: https://linktr.ee/homeschoolmomsunfiltered A HUGE thank you to our premier sponsor - Hub of Curiosity. They believe that learning begins with interest and offer an incredible variety of classes on Outschool. Check out their amazing classes here:https://outschool.com/teachers/Hub-of-Cuiosity?signup=true&usid=C19DrybH&utm_campaign=share_invite_link If you're new to Outschool, use code BUDGETING2024 for $20 off your first enrollment! Would you like personalized coaching from Meagan or Amanda (or both)???? We offer consultation services. Feel free to take a look at our respective bios and book a time that is convenient for you. ⁠https://calendly.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered⁠ Come hang out with us! Join our FB group for fun and support: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/homeschoolmomsunfiltered⁠ Love Homeschool Moms Unfiltered and want to show your support? https://www.buymeacoffee.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered Let's be friends!!! Follow us on social media for giveaways and updates!! IG: https://www.instagram.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered/ TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@homeschoolmomsunfiltered?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc FB: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered⁠

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We are continuing our discussion about The Danish Way of Raising Teens. We are trying to figure out why the Danes are so darn happy! Even if you don't have teens, come join us. This book is applicable to all stages of parenting. In this episode, we'll be discussing chapters 3 & 4. If you'd like to read along with us, you can buy the book here: https://amzn.to/4dF3XE0 (((Psst. That's an affiliate link. It doesn't cost you anything extra to use our link, but we sure do appreciate it!)))) Let's continue the conversation on Patreon! We host live meet-ups 2x/month and can't wait to meet you. Join here: https://bit.ly/3X5R0gIHomeschoolers love a good rabbit hole! Dig in deeper with our helpful links: https://linktr.ee/homeschoolmomsunfiltered A HUGE thank you to our premier sponsor - Hub of Curiosity. They believe that learning begins with interest and offer an incredible variety of classes on Outschool. Check out their amazing classes here:https://outschool.com/teachers/Hub-of-Cuiosity?signup=true&usid=C19DrybH&utm_campaign=share_invite_link If you're new to Outschool, use code BUDGETING2024 for $20 off your first enrollment!Would you like personalized coaching from Meagan or Amanda (or both)???? We offer consultation services. Feel free to take a look at our respective bios and book a time that is convenient for you.https://calendly.com/homeschoolmomsunfilteredCome hang out with us! Join our FB group for fun and support:https://www.facebook.com/groups/homeschoolmomsunfiltered Love Homeschool Moms Unfiltered and want to show your support? https://www.buymeacoffee.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered Let's be friends!!! Follow us on social media for giveaways and updates!!IG: https://www.instagram.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered/TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@homeschoolmomsunfiltered?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcFB: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered

Warning - sad statistic. :( The 2nd leading cause of death for kids ages 10-24 in America is...suicide.I'm not okay with this!Let's talk this Depression Awareness Month about prevention - there are research-based strategies that parents can use to reduce their kids' chances of being depressed. While depression isn't the only risk factor for suicide, it is certainly correlated.If we can make these practices a part of American culture, we can save American kids!!Today I'm expanding on these 3 things parents can do to raise depression-proof kids:Control stress - in yourself and then model and teach your kids to do it for themselvesBoost self-esteem - through genuine purpose-driven work, not empty complimentsIncrease resilience - by letting kids learn to cope with failure and difficultiesThis episode is sponsored by Just Thrive Probiotics! Check them out at kidscookrealfood.com/JustThrive. Use code Katie15 for 15% off!Resources We Mention About Depression PreventionMayo Clinic article on teen suicideMayo Clinic article on teen depression causes and preventionMy interview with Jessica Lahey on the gift of failureMy interview with Jess Sherman on raising resilienceMy Healthy Parenting Handbook episodes on Stress Mastery: part 1 and part 2My interview with Lisa Dorval on meditation for kids (includes 2 guided meditations)The Wellness Mama podcast episode with Margot BisnowRaising kids to follow their passions with Jonathan and Renee HarrisLife skills to teach your kids before they turn 18 Kitchen Stewardship Kids Cook Real Food follow Katie on Instagram or Facebook Subscribe to the newsletter to get weekly updates YouTube shorts channel for HPH Find the Healthy Parenting Handbook at kidscookrealfood.com/podcast Affiliate links used here. Thanks for supporting the Healthy Parenting Handbook!

In this episode, Kristen Adams (aka KO) opens up about getting into the unique challenges of raising teens in a blended family. She talks about the power of showing up—whether through volunteering, being present, or offering guidance—and why it's crucial to start early. You don't always need to win the popular vote as a parent, but you do need to remain consistent. She explores why your teens need you to be a parent, not a friend, and how setting boundaries helps them flourish. You'll learn how to ask the right questions, why checking their phones and devices is an essential part of parenting in the digital age, and how to choose your battles wisely. Plus, she discusses the value of mom friends for support and insight during this sometimes overwhelming journey. Tune in for practical strategies that help you GET IN THE KNOW to stay connected, set limits, and raise resilient teens.

We are starting a new book! This week we are kicking off The Danish Way of Raising Teens by Iben Dissing Sandahl. Feel free to tune in for our digest. If you'd like to read along with us, you can find the book here: https://amzn.to/4dF3XE0 Just a quick note.... sometimes, but not always, we share affiliate links. We only share products we use and love! It doesn't cost you anything extra to order through our link, but it does help support our podcast. We appreciate your help! Let's continue the conversation on Patreon! We host live meet-ups 2x/month and can't wait to meet you. Join here: https://bit.ly/3X5R0gIHomeschoolers love a good rabbit hole! Dig in deeper with our helpful links: https://linktr.ee/homeschoolmomsunfiltered A HUGE thank you to our premier sponsor - Hub of Curiosity. They believe that learning begins with interest and offer an incredible variety of classes on Outschool. Check out their amazing classes here:https://outschool.com/teachers/Hub-of-Cuiosity?signup=true&usid=C19DrybH&utm_campaign=share_invite_link If you're new to Outschool, use code BUDGETING2024 for $20 off your first enrollment!Would you like personalized coaching from Meagan or Amanda (or both)???? We offer consultation services. Feel free to take a look at our respective bios and book a time that is convenient for you.https://calendly.com/homeschoolmomsunfilteredCome hang out with us! Join our FB group for fun and support:https://www.facebook.com/groups/homeschoolmomsunfiltered Love Homeschool Moms Unfiltered and want to show your support? https://www.buymeacoffee.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered Let's be friends!!! Follow us on social media for giveaways and updates!!IG: https://www.instagram.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered/TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@homeschoolmomsunfiltered?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcFB: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered

Raising Teens in these times is trying. There are so many things they encounter that we never had to face at their age. Moving across country with your family in an RV is just the icing on the cake of a turbulent teen experience. Join me and Anna while she shares her testimony about her own Teen Troubles in this THREE part Stay At Home, Mom podcast series. Don't forget to check out our AFFILIATES: Not Consumed Ministries: https://store.notconsumed.com?aff=554 Kitsch: https://www.mykitsch.com/LESLEY CODE: LESLEY15 Goatcare.com: https://goatcare.com/?bg_ref=3gjev0Hbn9 CODE: LESLEY Instagram: https://instragram.com/stayathomemomgoody?igshid=ZGUzMzM3NWJiOQ== If you have any tips, insight or comments you would love to share please send emails to stayathomemomgoody@outlook.com

Amanda, Abby, and Glennon take your questions on raising teenagers, managing your child's (and your own) anxiety, and decision fatigue. Discover:  -The delicate trapeze of parenting teens and how to create openness so your teens come to you when they're in trouble;  -Why Glennon believes we should ditch the ‘story' of our kids; and -Abby's take on why the saying, “I'm proud of you,” can be harmful. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In today's increasingly connected world, it's nearly impossible to shield our children from political discourse. As parents, our role is to equip our children with the tools they need to navigate political conversations with our kids in the safety of our home. When we teach our children how to have these conversations with friends and family in a respectful manner, their confidence and critical thinking skills grow.  I'm Connie Albers, a veteran homeschool mom who is married to Tom. Together, we have five grown children (three married) and many grandkids. I am committed to strengthening families through live TV, radio, podcasting, writing, and speaking. My book and audio, Parenting Beyond the Rules, Raising Teens with Confidence and Joy, helps parents navigate a critical season of parenting with a focus on building relationships.  Read the full show notes with links here: https://conniealbers.com/political-conversations-with-kids-part-2// To become a sponsor of Equipped To Be, email contact@conniealbers.com.   If you enjoy listening to Equipped To Be, would you kindly 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/   

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Does your teen seem overly concerned about how they look? Do they seem to overeat or restrict their food intake without worrying about the consequences? This interview with Dr. Charlotte Markey will help. Dr. Markey is a professor of psychology and chair of the Health Sciences Department at Rutgers University, and a research scientist who has published over 100 scholarly articles and chapters about mental health issues. She has been conducting research on eating behavior and body image for over 25 years. She is the author of The Body Image Book for Girls, Being You: The Body Image Book for Boys, and most recently, Adultish: The Body Image Book for Life.In this episode, we cover:What do you include when you speak of body image?I think of it now more about weight, but wouldn't it include having straight teeth, fewer pimples, and a cute haircut?Have young people always struggled with body image, or is this something new to our modern times?When should parents begin to worry that a teen's concern over body image is becoming too much?My 17-year-old is beginning to gain quite a bit of weight, and her doctor is concerned. She doesn't seem to be worried about it, but I am worried that she is establishing bad habits. We eat “normal,” relatively healthy food at home and have some “treats,” but not a huge amount, so she's not gaining weight from what she is eating at home. She is driving now and stops frequently to eat fast food and then doesn't eat much of what we serve for our meals. She also buys a lot of chips, sodas, and cookies and eats them in her room all evening. This is beginning to feel like disordered eating to me. Parents worry that if they say anything, they are drawing attention and casting too much emphasis on weight.I have a 16-year-old girl who is very aware of her weight. I think some degree of that is normal, but I see that she is adding more exercise to her routine even though she has always been active in sports. I also see that she is eating less and less at our meals, but then she eats an entire pint of ice cream. She loves clothes and is very pleased when she drops a size. Should I be worried?What is intuitive eating?Are the body image issues for boys different than for girls?What teens are at the greatest risk of developing an eating disorder?Are youth who have experienced trauma or food insecurity at greater risk?Are teens with ADHD at greater risk for eating disorders, especially overeating? What protective factors should we add to our kids' lives when we see them struggling?Where do you go first for help when your teen is in trouble?The impact of GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy on body image of teens.What are the impacts of social media and mainstream media on body imageSupport the Show.Please leave us a rating or review. This podcast is produced by www.CreatingaFamily.org. We are a national non-profit with the mission to strengthen and inspire adoptive, foster & kinship parents and the professionals who support them.Creating a Family brings you the following trauma-informed, expert-based content: Weekly podcasts Weekly articles/blog posts Resource pages on all aspects of family building

Send us a Text Message."Does everyone hate their husband by the time their kids are grown?" Probably a hyperbolic question, but the underlying sentiment was authentic: Marital struggles during the raising-teen years are real. We'll have a conversation about five typical issues that couples face during these years and discuss why. Thank you so much for being here today and always1Thank you for listening and being part of this community! Let's get social. Follow me on Facebook, on Twitter @reframing_me, on Instagram @reframingme and on TikTok @reframingmeI hope you enjoyed the episode! Please leave a review, catch up on any missed episodes, and be sure to follow the show, so you don't miss new content!

This episode Amy introduces us to a man whose Christian journey has involved vast amounts of soil and salt - with a few goats thrown in. Steve Campbell didn't know where God was going to take him. He just preferred that it would be outdoors. God honoured that and took him into the line-up of a local beach, and on to surfing as a ministry. Salt is proudly brought to you by Sydney Missionary and Bible College. Click here for more information on the wide range of courses available. If you're interested in following Amy's podcast recommendation, you can find Raising Teens here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tina Keto loved everything about being homeschooled–the mental freedom, the flexibility, and the family time. But she decided not to homeschool her own children because she knew firsthand the time and sacrifice it required from her mother–until she had her first son. And that changed everything. Join Zan and Tina as they discuss the homeschool advantage–an engaging education, flexibility of schedule, and the freedom that her teenage sons have to pursue their passions. Their love of music has catapulted them into travel and performance opportunities around the world. Additionally, as a military mom, Tina is a champ at building community wherever her family lives. Find out how Tina has managed all of this, while working part-time. Tina is passionate about her boys having a robust education based on biblical truth. You don't want to miss this episode!   SHOW NOTES https://zantyler.com/podcast/104-tina-keto LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE Join Zan Tyler and a special guest each week for real encouragement, engaging stories, and practical wisdom for surviving and thriving on the homeschool journey. YouTube: https://bit.ly/3ZjfXnW  Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3QmTyC3   Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3vLipG2  SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR ZAN https://speakpipe.com/Zan_Tyler_Podcast  CONNECT WITH ZAN & FOLLOW HER ON SOCIAL Website: https://zantyler.com/podcast  Instagram: https://instagram.com/zan_tyler_podcast  Facebook: https://facebook.com/ZanTylerHomeschool  TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@thezantylerpodcast  SPONSORED BY BJU PRESS HOMESCHOOL https://bjupresshomeschool.com

This is an excerpt from our interview with Nanette Brown on the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast. Watch or listen to the full conversation here. Watch this full interview on our YouTube Channel. Nanette Brown joins Yvette Hampton for a transformative conversation on the L.E.A.D.E.R. framework – a powerful acronym that stands for Love the Lord, Encourage in God's word, Ask God in prayer, Depend on the Lord, Evangelize, and Rest in the Lord. Discover practical tips for raising children who are not only grounded in faith but also poised to be exemplary leaders. Nanette, a seasoned homeschooling mom, shares her wisdom on guiding both naturally inclined leaders and followers, involving children in church activities, and the vital role of influential figures in kids' lives. If you're eager to inspire leadership in your children and cultivate a heart for service and giving, this episode is a must-listen! Recommended Resources: "Homeschooling is a Powerful Tool" - Nanette and Rod Brown in Schoolhouse Rocked: The Homeschool Revolution  

Jon Mattleman received his B.A. from Clark University in 1978, and his MS in Counseling from the University of Hartford in 1981. Jon's workshops and presentations are geared to give participants tools they can implement immediately, strategies that work with children and youth, and approaches which have proven to be critical to building healthy relationships. Jon frequently consults with schools, parent groups, mental health organizations, and in workplace settings regarding the issues of anxiety, stress, depression, suicide, parenting, and the emotional consequences of technology. Jon is a certified trainer in QPR Suicide Prevention and has worked with professionals in schools, with state organizations such as the Massachusetts Probation Department, as well as with hundreds of parents regarding self-harm and suicide prevention. Jon is best known for his talk “The Secret Life of Teens and Tweens” and has presented this to thousands of parents all over New England. Jon has appeared on numerous radio and television shows lending his expertise on anxiety, depression, suicide, teens, and parenting. When teenagers are giving their parents an attitude, how should they deal with that? Parents shouldn't take an attitude from their teens personally. Be Patient. Never change your expectations of your teen, however you may need to change your timeline. Parents can practice giving themselves a time-out so they don't say something they wish they could take back. What do you do if a kid gets in trouble, for example- smoking in the bathroom at school? What do you do when you learn that your son/daughter is having sex, do you confront them? “In the dark conversations” can be very effective when having challenging conversations as facial expressions can alter the outcome. Jon talks about a teen's brain and what motivates them at different stages, and how to prepare and recognize these shifts. Sponsored by EdGerety.com Resources Website: https://www.jonmattleman.com Twitter: https://x.com/Jonmattleman

Anxiety seems to go hand in hand with raising teens. All that you want is for your child to be safe, happy and successful...but when any of these goals is in jeopardy, we moms can't help but feel anxious, right? It's hard to trust that everything will be ok, especially when we feel such a deep responsibility to help guide and support our teens. On top of that, our minds are really good at dreaming up worst case scenarios that keep us up at night! In this episode, I share the two steps you can take right now to help you let go of your anxiety and find peace.

Send us a Text Message.Can modern parents successfully navigate the digital influences shaping their preteens' identities? Join us for this captivating episode of Wealthy AF, featuring Marcus Higgs, an esteemed educator and mentor. We promise you'll walk away with actionable insights on how to bridge the communication gap between you and your children, especially in an age where online influences can lead to skepticism about parental guidance. Marcus shares real-life anecdotes that reveal how parents can support their preteens in understanding their evolving worldviews and emotions, helping to establish a foundation of interdependence.Our conversation doesn't stop there. We dig into the emotional struggles parents face as their children grow, illustrated by the compelling story of a young man who chose a prestigious university against his parents' financial advice. Hear firsthand how balancing parental advice with external influences can be a tightrope walk, and why allowing children to make their own choices can be both challenging and rewarding. Family culture, particularly in fostering entrepreneurial skills, emerges as a crucial theme, showing how foundational values can guide a child's future success.Finally, we explore the vital concepts of resilience, trust, and community support in parenting adolescents. Learn how to manage your emotional responses and maintain open communication, even when core values are questioned. Marcus introduces his upcoming book, "The Show Up Framework," packed with practical advice for modern parents. If you're eager to equip yourself with the wisdom to raise confident and resilient children, this episode is a treasure trove of valuable insights. Don't miss out on the profound expertise Marcus brings to the table, helping you navigate the complexities of parenting in today's world.CONNECT WITH MARCUS!https://www.instagram.com/heartofmarcus/https://marcushiggs.comhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CLDCKWKH?th=1&psc=1&geniuslink=trueThis episode is brought to you by Premier Ridge Capital.Sign Up for our Newsletter and get our FREE E-Book where you'll learn everything you need to know about creating financial freedom through multifamily syndication.Visit www.premierridgecapital.com now! Introducing the 60 Day Deal Finder!Visit: www.MartinREIMastery.comUse the Coupon Code: WEALTHYAFfor 20% off! This episode is brought to you by Premier Ridge Capital.Build Generational Wealth As A Passive Investor In Multifamily Real Estate Syndication!Visit www.premierridgecapital.com to find out more.Support the Show.

Raising Teens in these times is trying. There are so many things they encounter that we never had to face at their age. Moving across country with your family in an RV is just the icing on the cake of a turbulent teen experience. Join me and Anna while she shares her testimony about her own Teen Troubles in this TWO part Stay At Home, Mom podcast series. Don't forget to check out our AFFILIATES: Not Consumed Ministries: https://store.notconsumed.com?aff=554 Kitsch: https://www.mykitsch.com/LESLEY CODE: LESLEY15 Instagram: https://instragram.com/stayathomemomgoody?igshid=ZGUzMzM3NWJiOQ== If you have any tips, insight or comments you would love to share please send emails to stayathomemomgoody@outlook.com

The property aficionado lands on DMP to talk raising teenage boys, the good, the bad and the ugly of your kids growing into adults - and how to navigate tech in a parental world that doesn't really have blueprint other than hollering ‘get off your phone'. An informative chat with a beautiful soul.

Welcome to "Raising Teens Today," where Greg and Rachel Denning challenge the norms of parenting teens in today's world. The Denning's share personal anecdotes that unravel the joy and unexpected friendship that can blossom during the teenage phase. They emphasize the profound impact of early emotional connections, and underscore the critical roles of sleep, nutrition, and lifestyle choices in shaping teenagers' behaviors and mental health. Delving into contemporary challenges, Greg and Rachel dissect the influence of social media and video games on teenagers, advocating for minimizing these distractions to foster healthier development. Their approach to discipline revolves around natural consequences and practical life lessons, emphasizing responsibility and earning privileges through tangible contributions. Practical strategies are unveiled for handling defiance and motivational hurdles in teenagers, emphasizing clear expectations and constructive family dynamics. Ultimately, they illuminate the path to earning respect from teenagers while nurturing a positive, productive environment at home during these formative years. Tune in to gain invaluable insights and rethink your approach to parenting teenagers with Greg and Rachel Denning. RESOURCES: Let us help you in your extraordinary family life journey. Get Rachel's ⁠⁠Family Systems & Charts⁠⁠ Join the ⁠⁠28-Day Challenge⁠⁠ for Moms Rachel's ⁠⁠Must-Read Booklist for Well-Read Moms⁠⁠ ⁠Greg's ⁠⁠Recommended Reading List for Parents & Youth⁠⁠ Join the ⁠⁠Be The Man Coaching & Tribe⁠⁠ Download the ⁠⁠⁠Be The Man app on iOS⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠Android⁠⁠ Take the ⁠⁠⁠Be The Man 7-Day Challenge.⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on Instagram: ⁠@worldschoolfamily⁠ or ⁠@greg.denning⁠ Gather with us at the ⁠World School Family (Beach & Farm) Resort⁠ in Portugal --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/extraordinary-family-life/message

This week it is such a pleasure to welcome Iben Dissing Sandahl to The Hamilton Review Podcast! Iben, a renowned Danish author, licensed psychotherapist, and educator, is widely recognized for her bestselling books "The Danish Way of Parenting" and its sequel, "The Danish Way of Raising Teens," which have been translated into 32 languages. In this conversation Iben discusses the following:   - The Danish way of parenting principles - The importance of trust and setting boundaries - Respectful communication with your teen and more.   Parents, the advice and principles that Iben shares is absolute gold. The teen years are tough to navigate - don't miss this important episode!  Iben Dissing Sandahl, a renowned Danish author, licensed psychotherapist, and educator, is widely recognized for her bestselling books "The Danish Way of Parenting" and its sequel, "The Danish Way of Raising Teens," which have been translated into 32 languages.  As a global advocate for children's well-being, she passionately promotes the ten principles of Danish parenting, which have significantly contributed to Denmark being ranked the happiest country in the world for more than 40 years.  Iben's work has inspired thousands of families, schools, and organizations worldwide, and she is frequently featured in esteemed publications such as The Washington Post, The New York Times, and Psychology Today.  Through her workshops, lectures, and counseling, Iben continues to make a profound impact on parents and professionals, empowering them to raise confident, happy, and resilient children. How to contact Iben Dissing Sandahl:   Instagram: @thedanishway https://www.instagram.com/thedanishway/?hl=da   LinkedIn: Iben Sandahl https://www.linkedin.com/in/iben-sandahl-75a90b1a?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app   Website: ibensandahl.com https://ibensandahl.com   Parenting by Iben Sandahl App: https://bit.ly/parenting_app       How to contact Dr. Bob: Dr. Bob on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChztMVtPCLJkiXvv7H5tpDQ Dr. Bob on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drroberthamilton/ Dr. Bob on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bob.hamilton.1656 Dr. Bob's Seven Secrets Of The Newborn website: https://7secretsofthenewborn.com/ Dr. Bob's website: https://roberthamiltonmd.com/ Pacific Ocean Pediatrics: http://www.pacificoceanpediatrics.com/  

Today, we come to the end of our week-long long look at researcher Ellen Galinsky's new book about teenagers, “The Breakthrough Years: A New Scientific Framework for Raising Thriving Teens”. In it, Galinsky lists five things teens wish their parents and other adults knew about them. As Christian parents, we should pay special attention to the fifth message she heard from kids: “We want to learn stuff that's useful.” Galinsky lists these skills as understanding other's perspectives, how to communicate effectively, how to work with others, and how to set goals. While these skills are all good, we need to make sure that the way our kids understand and use these skills is rooted in the Gospel and a commitment to live a faithful life of Christian discipleship. In other words, these skills must not be used to advance the kingdom of me, myself, and I. Rather, these skills should serve the higher goal of bringing glory to God. Parents, nurture your kids in the Christian faith!

In a new age of challenges we didn't endure ourselves, how can we parent teens with countercultural values? Often, what is popular is not what is right, and we need strength to be resolute as we teach our young adults to be a light and see God's goodness in the midst of suffering and confusion.

In a new age of challenges we didn't endure ourselves, how can we parent teens with countercultural values? Often, what is popular is not what is right, and we need strength to be resolute as we teach our young adults to be a light and see God's goodness in the midst of suffering and confusion.

Welcome to another edition of the No Labels, No Limits podcast where we continue sharing stories of accomplished and inspiring guests who have overcome challenges to achieve personal and professional goals.Today's guest is Douglas Haddad, an experienced educator, author, and filmmaker dedicated to empowering young minds. With 24 years of teaching experience and recognition as "Teacher of the Year," Douglas brings a wealth of expertise to our conversation. He is a 3-time podcast guest, known for his insightful perspectives on parenting and education, and has authored popular books like "The Ultimate Guide to Raising Teens and Tweens" and "Mya McLure, the Brave Science Girl: The Toad Cave."Douglas's storytelling extends to film, with his award-winning short film "Butterfield" addressing themes of bullying and resilience. He also leads his school's film club, fostering creativity and collaboration among students, and recently organized a film festival to showcase student work.We delve into the following topics:- Innovative approaches to keep education engaging- The transformative power of filmmaking and storytelling- The significance of local film awards in fostering creativity and community- and so much more!Douglas offers an inspiring thought: "Paint a picture with your mind of the world you want to see. Use your imagination. Let it fly and create who you want to be." - Reward (character in "Butterfield")Don't miss out on this inspiring conversation about innovation and creativity in education. Tune in to learn from Douglas Haddad's wealth of experience and insights. Subscribe to the NLNL podcast for more inspiring episodes, and visit our website at www.SarahBoxx.com for additional resources and information.Learn more and connect with Douglas here:www.douglashaddad.comwww.facebook.com/douglasmhaddadwww.instagram.com/dougmjhwww.twitter.com/douglasmhaddad#storytelling #Podcast #Inspiration #Education #Innovation #NLNL Get bonus content on Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever wondered what middle and high schoolers are worried about these days? Are their conversations at church similar to the ones we had as kids? Are their fears and worries the same, or how are they different? In today's episode, we sit down with Anna Aaron Harvey, a mom and the Minister to Middle and High School Girls at Hebron Church, to get a look behind the curtain of student ministry. Anna shares the latest trends she's seeing among these age groups and how they're currently navigating their faith journeys. She also offers advice for parents on how we can support student ministers and reinforce church teachings at home. And for parents of younger kids, Anna gives us advice on how we can prepare our elementary school kids for middle school if they aren't there yet. Questions of the Week: What are the topics of discussion in your small group at church?--Hosts: Amy Lowe & Sara JonesProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun--Learn more about WinShape Camps at WinShapeCamps.org!Instagram: @WinShapeCampsTikTok: @WinShapeCampsFacebook: @WinShapeCamps

You're sitting across from your teenager at the kitchen table. Now that you finally have their undivided attention, you want to talk about an important issue they are facing. Unfortunately, things get tense quickly. Their eyes roll, you get frustrated, and soon they are looking for an escape from this conversation. You sit dumbfounded thinking, "How do I raise my teen to love Christ in a world that is doing everything possible to pull them away?"In this episode of Candid Conversations, host Jonathan welcomes back Melissa Kruger, Vice President of Discipleship Programming at the Gospel Coalition. Melissa is also an accomplished author, having written multiple books, including “Growing Together,” “Walking with God in the Season of Motherhood,” and the popular children's book “Wherever You Go, I Want You to Know.”During this conversation, Jonathan and Melissa discuss her latest book, “Parenting with Hope: Raising Teens for Christ in the Secular Age.” The book provides practical guidance and biblical insights for parents navigating the challenges of raising teenagers in today's culture. Melissa shares her personal journey and the inspiration behind writing this important resource.Listen to this Candid Conversation as Melissa Kruger sheds light on parenting teens with hope, faith, and wisdom. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, or youth leader, this episode offers valuable insights for nurturing the next generation.To ask Jonathan a question or connect with the Candid community, visit https://LTW.org/CandidFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/candidpodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/candidpodTwitter: https://twitter.com/thecandidpodTRANSCRIPT:This transcript recounts Candid Conversations with Jonathan Youssef Episode 248: Parenting with Hope:  Raising Teens for Christ in the Secular Age: Melissa Kruger.[00:06] Jonathan: Well, today I have a repeat guest. It is Melissa Kruger. She is the vice president of discipleship programming at the Gospel Coalition. She is the author of multiple books, including Growing Together; Walking with God in the Season of Motherhood; and the popular children's book, Wherever You Go, I Want You to Know, which we have gotten for our son, and then we've had his teachers write inscriptions each year, whoever his teacher is. And I think you have a special book that allows for that.Her husband Mike, who has also been on the podcast, is the president of Reformed Theological Seminary. And they and their three children are in Charlotte, North Carolina. Melissa, thank you so much for coming back onto Candid Conversations.[00:52] Melissa: Great! Thanks for having me back.[00:54] Jonathan: Okay, you've got a new book out called Parenting with Hope: Raising Teens for Christ in the Secular Age. Now, I imagine this book is flying off the shelves, and you've probably shattered sales records.[01:12] Melissa: I don't think so, right?[01:14] Jonathan: It should. I think this is something the church hears a lot about and it's always so helpful to have books that are written from a helpful, biblical perspective and giving people the foundations and the equipping and the reminders that we can often forget.So tell us a little bit about the journey on Parenting With Hope. What got the start of the book?[01:48] Melissa: I was approached by a publisher who had read my book, Walking with God in the Season of Motherhood, and they said, “We'd really like you to take some of these principles and apply it to parenting teens. And we want it trade book form, Walking with God in the Season of Motherhood, is a Bible study for women, I wrote that one for a friend, for her baby shower. It wasn't intended for publishing; I was writing it for her. So this one really they came with the question and I was very unsure of myself. I've raised three teenagers, and so it was kind of that, ooh, and I was just out of the season. But what I realized when I did Walking with God in the Season of Motherhood, I couldn't write that book now, I think, because I'm not in that moment. The teen years are very fresh to me. I saw tons. I still have one teenager, she's 17. I have a 17-year-old, a 20-year-old, and a 23-year-old and so still it's fresh to me. But I also realized no one's sixty who can write about what they did about cell phones because they didn't exist. They can't talk about what did they do with social media. They can't talk about some of these sports and activities because it was totally different twenty years ago. And so I realized, okay, it's probably a good thing to have someone fresh on the season. And I also realized, the second thing, I was a high school math teacher in I always say my other life, and so I had taken a lot of teen development classes. And I realized this really did help me in the parenting of teens, like there's a lot of common grace insights by people who have studied just what works and what doesn't, and I've realized I had those things in my back pocket. And we do that a lot with young children, we read all the developmental milestones, we know what your 2-year-old should be doing, what your 3-year-old should be doing. When's the last time you read a developmental milestone about your 9-year-old or your 10-year-old? And we stop being learners of what kids are able to do and what they should be doing and so I wanted to put some of that in the book as well.[04:15] Jonathan: Okay, so I love how you break down the book. So it's broken down into three parts. You give the basics, which you call “The Foundations of a Christian Home”; The Battle: Fighting for the Better Portion”; which we'll get into that. And then “The Blessing: Cultivating a Home Where Teens Thrive.” Talks us through a little bit of the Part 1.[04:44] Melissa: I might come off as, well, we all know this, right? [04:48] Jonathan: Right. If you're in the church, you should know and understand that. But—[04:51] Melissa: Exactly. Exactly. And in a lot of ways this is being a Christian 101. But I remind parents of it because I think sometimes we get so bogged down with all the things we're not doing as parents that I want to remind them the most important thing you do as a human is be in God's Word, be in prayer, and be in the church. Doing that is going to already set you ahead of parents all around the world. I mean, that is such a gift to your child to be a parent who is regularly in-taking from the Bible. Why? Because the Bible is not just another book on the shelf; it's actually divine wisdom. We have the ability to tap into divine wisdom. And then secondly we have not just divine wisdom, we have divine help because we can call on God to do what we cannot do, we cannot save our child, we cannot change our child. We cannot make them do really much of anything, but God can work in ways that we can't understand.And then the community of the church is just something that, I mean, I think we're seeing with the epidemic of teen loneliness and anxiety and isolation, all these things. The church is this institution that, guess what, it answers that. It's this welcoming place where you have 80-year-olds and you have 8-year-olds. And so I don't think we can talk about parenting without talking about what's the foundation of our hope. It's actually that God's Word is true, and living in light of God's Word is hopeful, and we're not left alone on the journey. So that's the Battle. The battle really talks about our battles. And again, this is a book about being the parent of a teen. It's not a book about how to make your teen perfect. If that book exists, that's the—[06:54] Jonathan: If it does, you should burn it.[06:56] Melissa: Yeah, that's the Holy Spirit's job is to change us and make us different. And so the second part is the battle, I think we often think is sex, drugs, rock and roll or some other things we're trying to prevent our teen from. I would say it's actually good things robbing us of the best things. The battle is with our own idolatry. As parents, we are all coming into this game with hopes and dreams for our kids, and sometimes those dreams turn idolatrous. I focus on scholarship and achievement, on sports and activities, and then on social acceptance. I think those are the cultural idols we have in the West that are pressing upon us as parents, and we have to battle about all of those.[07:38] Jonathan: And that's what I love about the book is that it's not prescriptions, right? When people are struggling with their kids, what do they want? Just tell me what to do so that this will stop or so I can take this away, right? And I think the way that your book is written is that it's not about if you do A, B will happen. Now, there's a little bit of element of that because you just mentioned the foundations earlier, which is, well, you really need to be doing these practices, but you don't necessarily think, oh, being in church and being in the Word and being in prayer, you don't necessarily feel the direct correlation to your parenting, but it is there.I have friends who have raised their kids the exact same way and one rebels and the other one is a blessing to their family. And then it's like, what did we do wrong? Your husband was speaking yesterday about the paradox of God is sovereign over all things, and yet we're still called to be good parents. And so there's that. We don't fully understand the mystery of that, but we know what we're called to, and so we have to walk it out.[09:14] Melissa: That's right. As a parent, I am called to fight my idolatry. I'm actually not called to control my child. And so often what you see if we go into control mode when we're fearful, and the Bible says trust and obey. And I would say obey and trust. And so you follow God's call and then you trust. You trust that you're doing everything you can to walk in a manner worthy of the gospel in front of the Lord and in front of your kids, and then you have to trust. And you will only have the ability to trust if you're building on the foundation. So this is where it always goes back to that foundation. And I'm talking about how to be a human, honestly. I mean, if you want to know how to succeed in your place of work, oh, you need the Word, you need prayer, you need the church. If you want to know how to be single in the life of the church, you need the Word, you need prayer, you need the church. But I think I say it again and again because it's Psalm 1. Yeah, I mean, “Blessed is the man who doesn't like in … who doesn't sit …” all that stuff. Oh, what does he do? “His delight is in the law of the Lord, and on it he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by a stream. Whatever he does prospers.” This is wisdom for life. And so I definitely think we have to start there, and then we have to be battling our own idols.And then the last section on the blessing is how do we create homes of acceptance, availability, and affection? Those words have to be in our world today. Acceptance does not mean an acceptance of sin, but it means an acceptance of who they are. And what I mean by that is we see a lot of curated children. And what I mean by that is parents trying to make the perfect child who plays the sport, who plays the instrument, who has an amazing GPA, who gets into the Ivy Leagues and all this stuff because that's a representation of me is what we're really trying to do.[11:12] Jonathan: Right. It's a reflection, yeah.[11:13] Melissa: So rather than saying, you know, my kid's not that great at school, but I can teach hard work. Even if they're not going to be a lawyer or a doctor, that's okay. And so that's what I mean by acceptance, accepting who the Lord is creating them to be and letting that glorify Him, whatever it might be. [11:33] Jonathan: Yeah, there's a lot of this element of caught versus taught, right? So especially as you think about the idolatry and what you prioritize in your life, your kids are by default looking at you, watching you. You're one of the greatest sources of influence on them, and so they are going to model themselves after what mom and dad prioritize. And the funny thing is that when parents look down the track they say, “Why are they like this?” And it's like, sometimes it's a little bit of look in the mirror. You know, what were they catching, even if you were teaching in a different trajectory and direction. Okay, so acceptance. What about availability?[12:17] Melissa: Yeah. I talk about this. I say you want to be available but you want to understand your limitations. Look, I mean, parents cannot be at everything. And I actually believe it's helpful for our kids to know that they are not the center of our universe. They do not have the gravitational weight to bear us, I like to say. Like the Earth cannot support the Sun revolving around it, it was never intended to, we are not created to revolve around our children. We are created to revolve around God, and we are helping them do the same. And kids who grow up in a home where the parent is rooted and grounded in the Lord, that takes an amazing burden off of them. You've heard the phrase “You're only as happy as your least happy child.” I think that is like poor least-happy child. No. My contentment and joy, where are they supposed to come from? They're supposed to be rooted in the Lord. Why are we supposed to be content with what we have? Because He has said, “Never will I leave or forsake you.” That's where our contentment rests. And we have to be people fighting for that as parents, to free our kids up from our own maybe tendency to put our hopes and dreams in them.[13:36] Jonathan: And then affection. A home of warmth.[13:39] Melissa: I read an article somewhere recently. I can't remember where it was; it was in the secular paper, and they said, really what you do as a parent doesn't matter, but if you love them, that makes a difference. And I was kind of like, huh. That's really interesting because I do think there's a lot to that. I think, you know, it's a little bit empty because I think love—[14:03] Jonathan: Well, one's usually reflected in the other, right?[14:05] Melissa: Yeah. Exactly. And you need truth to guide what love is, so there's that. But I did once hear—this was on the Oprah Winfrey Show a million years ago when that show was still on—she was interviewing I believe it was Toni Morrisson. And Toni Morrisson said one thing she had learned when a child walks into the room, she said, light up when that child walks in the room. And she said what kids tend to get when you walk into the room is your critical gaze. They tend to get, huh, your shirt's not tucked in. Hey, make sure you're getting ready for this. And this gets even worse in the teen years, because look, they're cute when they're walking in at two, so you might light up just because they're so cute.[14:50] Jonathan: It's worn off, yeah.[14:52] Melissa: Yeah, when they're walking in pimply and smelly and dirty, and they haven't showered in a week, you still need to light up when they walk. And I think there's something about that that will translate for the rest of their lives. That they know “I am deeply loved.” Light up even when they've done something wrong. Our correction should not be coldness. Our correction can still be full of warmth. And so we want to light up when these people walk in the room because they're made in the image of God. They have been given to us for this time to raise, and so we want to shower them with affection. And there can be wrong views of affection like trying to buy them. There are wrong ways. But I'm just talking about genuine love and interest in a person; that's always going to be a great basis for a child to go into the world with.[15:42] Jonathan: Okay, let's talk a little bit about how the gospel shapes our approach in parenting. What are the biblical principles that should guide us as we're raising children?[15:58] Melissa: The first is that I'm the oldest sinner in the room usually, so I'm expecting my 12-year-old to have their whole act together at twelve. Wow, that's pretty ungracious of me, right, because here I am at fifty and I don't have my act together. And so I think that one of the ways that parents can lead is to be the first to apologize. I always say my response is my responsibility. And so if I—let's say a kid's done something wrong, but I manage their wrongness by yelling and losing my temper and being impatient and unkind, I've got to own that. That's on me. I can still hold them to a standard while holding myself to a standard, and so we have to do that.And so I say one way grace-based homes begin is by being the chief apologizer in your home. Own it. And you know what? The kids will learn. They will learn from that and they will be able to give good apologies in their life. And you will benefit from it. I've had all of my kids come to me and be like, “Hey, I'm sorry I acted that way about that.” They did it on their own accord. I think it just became the conversation of the household that was safe to do. It was going to be met with love; it wasn't going to be met with the silent treatment, all of those things.And so I think a home with grace is going to be a home with apologies. It's going to be a home that accepts that failure is going to happen. I mean, the Lord's Prayer presupposes, “forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors,” so there's going to be sin. We're living flesh on flesh in these homes. And so it presupposes that we're going to need grace, but it also presupposes that there is a standard. So we do not lower standards. We keep the standards, but we offer correction when the standards has not been kept, and we offer love and grace in those moments as well.[17:57] Jonathan: Well, and it's a requirement of being a disciple of Jesus is being a forgiver. And yeah, why not start at home—not just forgiving, but asking for forgiveness. And I think you're right, it sets the tone for the family. But I think we can get caught up in, well, I'm the parent and I've got to be the one in control and in charge and I'm just giving directives to the little ones. It's hard, right? I mean, it's hard to admit to a little child that you've wronged them. Because you just want to say, who are you? Who are you to hold me accountable? But it's the Lord's holding us accountable.Let's elaborate a little bit on principles of prescriptions. We've talked a little bit about that, but as that relates to parenting.[18:52] Melissa: Yeah. I definitely think your principles in parenting can stay very much the same as kids go from two to twenty, meaning certain principles like, oh, my child is a sinner in need of grace. That's a principle. My child's a sinner and needs correction. That's a principle. Now, how I go about the practice of that correction is going to change greatly when they're two from when they're twelve, and if we don't make those changes, we're going to find ourselves with very frustrated teenagers.And so one example I like to say is when your 2-year-old makes a mistake, normally you need to offer correction right away, so if they do something wrong, they need it immediately because they're not going to remember tomorrow what you're talking about.[19:36] Jonathan: That's right exactly.[19:37] Melissa: They're in a different little universe where every moment is a new moment. Whereas with your 12-year-old, when they come in hot, and you know we all see 12-year-olds come in hot, they're slamming doors, they're in a mood, their hormones are going whatever. Right then is probably actually not the best time to offer correction or even confront them with, hey, you were really rude to me.I like to say if my friend came in and slammed the door my first question would not be like, “Hey, that's disrespectful to me.” My first question would be, “Hey, how are you doing? Is everything okay?” Or if my husband came in. Like I'd ask a question. And I think our teens need that from us. They need us to live with them in an understanding way, and often we're real caught up in our pride and how we deserve to be talked to. And that's just very us-centered versus, “Hey, is everything okay?” And maybe even to just say, later in the day, like 6:00 PM, 7:00 PM, when they've had some time to cool off, to go in and say, ‘Hey, you came in, you seemed upset today. Do you want to talk about it?” They may say yes, they may say no. And then later on, things will soften. They will soften to be able to say, “What would have been a good way to come in today?” That's a better time to have that conversation. And it may even be the next week. That's a better way to have that conversation than right away. So I think we had immediate kind of discipline when they were young, and it's really about applying wisdom to how and what we're going to correct. Thankfully, we do not have someone following us around all day correcting every little thing we do. I think sometimes parents of teens think, I've got four years left. I've got to get this kid all sorted.[21:20] Jonathan: To be ready for the world.[21:21] Melissa: You don't. If you saw my teen's bedroom, you'd be like, “Wow, she's a terrible parent. They are a complete and utter wreck.” And I just chose that was a battle I wasn't going to fight. But certain things, I wanted them to be truthful with me, I wanted them to have character, I wanted us to be able to have conversations. And if that meant I had to deal with messy floors, I was going to deal with messy floors on there. And they are. They lived up to that low expectation.[21:48] Jonathan: I'm sure they love hearing that. So you've introduced a topic that I wanted us to discuss, which is those stages of development and how do we parent differently when they're children versus teens. At what age is there a transformation? So when your child is little, you're really in kind of a protection mode in terms of what they consume media-wise or literature, whatever it is, right? We have a responsibility for protecting them and not just exposing them to all the horrible things out there.But as they get older, you and I talked about this in the beginning, but parents can tend to lean into one or the other camp, which is keeping the hyper bubble wrap around their child and never letting them be exposed to anything, or essentially letting them go out to the wolves at twelve, thirteen, whatever, and they are kind of almost drowning in “I need help. I wish someone would have kind of held my hand a little bit here.” That's a nuanced question, I know, but if we could talk about it in some generalities—and you can even use your own children as an example. Help parents who are at the tween period in their kids' lives. How do they navigate that helpfully?[23:21] Melissa: Yeah, I think that transition is tough and it's full of bumps and bruises. I called it in the book, I likened it to driving a stick-shift car. You have to be letting off the clutch the same time you're pressing the gas, but as you're learning, we're all going to stall and that's pretty normal. But I would just say as they're heading into these years, teens still need our involvement, but they do not need our over-involvement. And so as a parent, I think we really have to step back and say, “Okay, I'm going to be involved. I'm going to make sure they're not out drinking; they're not out doing illegal activities that could actually harm them. But I am not going to check their homework online.” Okay, see this was not even an option when I was a teacher—I don't know why parents are doing this. So I always think back to when I was teaching the parents never saw the grades until the grades came out. We had a midterm grade thing. I have people in my life who are checking their kids' grades constantly, and I'm like—[24:36] Jonathan: I didn't even know you could do that, actually. I've got little kids, so I'm, yeah, we're not in that camp yet.[24:41] Melissa: Well, come the teen years, they're finding out their kid missed one homework assignment and then they're all over them about it. I'm like, just let them bear that consequence. Let them bear the consequence of a zero. [24:52] Jonathan: That's a little bit of the helicopter/lawnmower parent mentality, right?[24:57] Melissa: That's right. And what happens is then that child never knows what it's like to deal with failure, and they actually need what I call safe failure. Because guess what? We all fail at things. Like we all make mistakes, we all do dumb things along the way. You want to protect them from huge failure, like you're going to go to jail for this.  But even things that we know are particularly damaging for their souls. So we want to protect them as best we can and have good rules in our home; we don't want rule-less homes; but the over-correction of being so over-involved.If you have teenagers, they should be packing their own lunch. They should be getting themselves—I don't wake any of my teens up, never have. They get themselves up, they knew to be at the family table for devotions at the time we always met. They could be responsible for them. And I never regret letting them be responsible for them. And so some of that is letting go of control and letting them, like again, like their room. Their rooms. Sometimes they did have to clean them.[26:09] Jonathan: You've got to live in it. They're the ones who have to live in it, right?[26:11] Melissa: And they have to … And they really will own it if we let them. Another big thing was we started early with our kids having them do chores and clean up the kitchen every night. But what Mike and I had to do, we had to leave the room, because yes, they would argue. Yes, they would get mad at one another. Yes, they would say, “I don't want to do it this way. Yes, it was excruciatingly slow and not well done. And I'd come in and I'd look at the counter and I thought, yeah, you'd feel the grit still on the counter, kids, and then do it again. Y'all get it right. And then we'd walk out because I couldn't handle the slowness at which they did it, but if I had not given them the space to do it and fail and not do it perfectly, they'd never learn. Where now they come home and they all know how to clean the kitchen. They know how to—and that's a gift when they go to college because they [overlapping voices] because my kids are like, “My roommates”—[27:04] Jonathan: And their future spouses.[27:06] Melissa: Yeah. “My roommates don't know how to clean the kitchen.” [27:09] Jonathan: Yeah. Yeah. Okay, let's steer into some of the battle things that are taking place. We, without having to explain, we live in a secular culture. How can parents maintain hope and raise their teens to follow Christ in just the age and day in which we live where there's the social pressures on sexuality and defining truth and those sorts of things. How do you kind of help navigate that water?[27:53] Melissa: Yeah, I think the earlier you can begin, the better. And some of this starts by having conversations about faith with your kids as young as you can. Mike and I were big believers in the catechism. There are different versions. We use the children's catechism. And every night at the family table we did it. What I love about a catechism is the kids talk; it's not just the parents talking. So it's about who made you? God. What else did God make? All things. Why did God make you and all things? For His glory. Okay, you've already set their framework in such a better place than most kids walking into elementary school just because they know they're made in the image of God and that they're made to glorify Him. So these things can start early. I think having those conversations along the way, and just, again, this is what we valued in our homes. We have to start valuing them young because if you start coming to your kid with, “Hey, God's Word is important” at age fifteen by you haven't modeled that by the way you live your life or by how you've been in it yourself, it's going to be hard to convince them that they should follow this ancient book. So I would say the best way to combat culture is to have the culture that Scripture encourages us to in the home. And to really know that what's happening in your home is actually what has the greatest impact on your kids, not the world, not their teachers, not their friends. Actually the studies show over and over again parental—what we do, which is kind of terrifying, we all should own it—what we do in the home is the biggest impact on how they are going to view certain things. It does not mean they will all come to faith. You can do everything right. We know it's the Spirit only that awakens people's hearts. But that—[29:48] Jonathan: Which takes a little bit of the pressure off in that category.[29:52] Melissa: Yes, exactly. But there are things we're teaching them like hard work and doing a job, knowing how to do a chore. Those are things that even non-Christians know how to work hard, and even non-Christians can live in certain outwardly moral ways that we can be trying to shape and mold our kids into, in prayer that the Spirit would make their hearts alive in a lot of ways.So I think we can be really fearful of culture. I think there's a lot to be concerned about. But what I will say is that when the Spirit opens our eyes, they can see, wow, culture is really empty. So my kids, I think they grew up in Christian school, but they've both been at large secular colleges and they just haven't been attracted to some of the worldly things because I think they know that, hey, the fellowship, the friendship of true believers is way better than this false, oh, I have to be drunk and do all these things for you to be my friend. Yeah, I don't think it's been as enticing because they've actually experienced good fellowship with believers throughout their lives and they've seen the benefit of that. So I always try to say fight the bad by giving them the better.[31:09] Jonathan: Yeah, I love that. Okay, two more areas I want us to just quickly dive into. One is navigating technology and social media, which again is one of the battles. And the other one is dealing with doubts. And so let's talk about, I mean, technology is everywhere. Social media abounds. How do we navigate this? Maybe some practical tips, setting boundaries, that sort of thing. How did you and Mike do it?[31:41] Melissa: Yeah. I mean, the first boundary is yourself. If you're glued to your phone, okay, your kid's going to be glued to their phone. So that's the first one. Let's just go ahead and say it. And I will say this: I think it's a lot harder for you raising kids now. When I had young kids, I didn't have a smartphone. I mean, can you imagine the difference? I could not, at a restaurant, just take my little cell phone and say, “Here, watch whatever show's popular.”[32:07] Jonathan: Yeah, keep ‘em busy.[32:08] Melissa: Yeah. And so I'm so thankful. We had to deal with those awful restaurant moments when they're losing their minds and having a fit.[32:20] Jonathan: That's why we don't go to restaurants.[32:22] Melissa: Or just not go. Sometimes it's like fast food because that's where you can easily…[32:28] Jonathan: In and out.[32:29] Melissa: And so I think to be aware that what you're doing with your phone and devices in the young years is greatly going to impact the older years. And then the other thing I would just say, as the statistics have come in—And the hopeful thing I have for your age, I think by the time your age, those kids get to high school, I think there will be new rules in high schools. It's hard right now. I view the cell phone and social media like smoking. The high school that I went to had inner courtyards, and you were allowed to go out and smoke during the middle of the day. Not when I was there. By the time I was there, inner courtyard, there as no smoking. I mean, think about it you know, airplanes, you used to be able to smoke on them, right?[33:11] Jonathan: I've been on one of those planes, actually, when I was a kid.[33:13] Melissa: Exactly. And now they've realized, oh, these aren't innocent—[33:19] Jonathan: It affects everyone in the plane, whether you want it or not, and the curtain's not going to keep it back.[33:24] Melissa: Exactly. And they would no more let a bunch of kids be sitting in the inner courtyard of a high school smoking now. Well, I believe, I really do believe what the studies are showing us, how bad it is for kids and their mental health. I believe one day cell phones are not going to be allowed in school—hopefully by the time your kids get there. I think they will not be allowed in middle and high school, so it might help parents.But today, parents have to navigate those waters without help from culture, and it's really hard. And so what I would say for every hour your kids spend on their cell phone or device, they will be less happy, and you have to reckon with that. The studies are in. Every further hour they spend on a device, they will be that much less happy. They will be more lonely, they will be more depressed, they will be more anxious. And so we've got to deal with that reality as we parent, and the most loving thing we can do is to help our kids not be glued to their phones all the time.[34:21] Jonathan: Yeah, I would imagine it fosters more of that comparative, yeah, right. My friend's picture's on whatever social media platform and I'm comparing myself at a constant rate, versus when I was a kid or teenager, it was like just what you could see in front of you.[34:40] Melissa: Right. You didn't know that you were actually left out of the party until a week or two later. Now instantly you're sitting home on a Friday night and you see the party that you weren't invited to.[34:54] Jonathan: I can only imagine navigating that. Okay, doubt. That's … This is a period in kids' life where doubt is more prevalent, more frequent. How should parents be dealing with questions—and I heard Mike give a great answer to some of this yesterday. But how do we address the question without dismission it, but also not wanting to just give the answer straightaway is kind of what Mike was saying yesterday.[35:37] Melissa: That's right. I think so often we hear a question and we jump to fear. Fear leads to control. So rather, the kid says something like, “Yeah, I'm not sure I believe that.” And then we hyper jump on that and give them a three-point outline of why they should believe what we believe. That is not a conversation and that is not what your teen needs. What I would say when they say, “Yeah, I'm not sure. It's seems really … That view of whatever seems really mean,” “Okay, tell me why you think that. Tell me where you hear that. What do your friends think about it?” Be curious about them. You already know actually what you think about whatever the thing is, but what they need to hear from you is that you actually are willing to listen as they're trying to sort it out. And it's going to make sense. Kids have really small perspectives on things. I did. When I was that age, I had all sorts of bad ideas about things. They're working through it, so work through it with them but don't … I just don't think it's very helpful to lecture them at that point. I think it's good … We want to have a conversation is what I keep saying. A conversation will allow more availability to give your opinion when you are curious about what they are thinking rather than just jumping in. And the reality is, again, me lecturing them is probably not going to prove my point. But as we have conversations, I'm going to start to understand where they're struggling, what they're struggling with, and we can keep having that conversation and it makes them a lot more receptive.[37:26] Jonathan: Yeah. I found that helpful. Mike was saying yesterday his tendency was to just give the answer straightaway. He's got the PhD and all of the qualifications and credentials, but kids don't really care. It's like, “All right, Dad, just chill.” And I get your point. And I think he said this yesterday, which is about let them kind of sit in the doubt for a little bit. Rather than just giving the quick, immediate response, let them wrestle with it, because this is probably the early formations of them moving out of the family faith and into a personal faith. And I think you've hit it on the head there with opening the dialog so it can be an ongoing conversation so that when they do go off to university or whatever it is and they are presented with ideas and philosophies, they can say, “I've already talked about that.” And I realize here all the fallacies or issues that come up with that, I think that's really helpful. But you're right, I think we do, we tend to go to fear and we start thinking down the track what could happen if I don't resolve this immediately. [38:43] Melissa: And to realize that conversation continues. It doesn't—[38:45] Jonathan: Yeah, right.[38:46] Melissa: All of our kids have called us. They normally call Mike, and they'll Facetime. I mean, Emma has been on the Facetime with like ten of her friends, and they're like, “We have a Bible question for you, Dad.” And I think because it felt like a conversation they actually continued the conversation.And I'll also say this. It's okay to not know. Because I get it. Like, look, it's really convenient when you have a husband who is a New Testament scholar and can answer some of these questions.[39:14] Jonathan: We all  just need Mike's phone number.[39:15] Melissa: Exactly. But I will say this. There are plenty of times he's like, “Yeah, that's a really confusing passage. I'm not sure what that means.” I mean, they are wildly unimpressed with his knowledge base sometimes, and so it's always nicely humbling.But he's very comfortable saying, “I don't know.” And I think we all should be comfortable saying, “I don't know,” and saying, “Hey, let's find out together.” Look, there are pastors out there who are waiting for calls like this. They have to deal with really hard issues sometimes, but they went to school to answer your biblical questions, and so a lot of times pastors are really eager to say, “Oh, I can help you with that.”[39:52] Jonathan: I get those from time to time, and sometimes there are the ones where, especially from little ones, and I think, how do I take what I know and put it in a way that you'll understand it. That takes some work.[40:07] Melissa: That's the best theological classroom you can ever be in right there.[40:10] Jonathan: Exactly. So we've asked some parents of teens to submit some questions that they're wrestling with, so we'll do a little lightning round of questions here. [41:06] Jonathan: This ties us back to what we mentioned earlier. This is kind of a newer thing. I mean, it's always been around, but it's more prevalent probably post-COVID, post-invention of the iPhone where kids are isolated. They are less relational than you and I would have been because that was all we had was relational collateral, personal interaction. Now kids can interact digitally and immediately and so there's probably a heightened level of self-consciousness, and that includes just appearance through social media and that sort of thing.So now going into a new setting with real people and real interactions must be a challenge. So what is some advice for the parent who's struggling with a teenager who's going through that?[42:08] Melissa: The first thing I always say is it's good to offer sympathy to them, “Hey, this is hard. I can remember what it was like to go into the lunch room and it be super awkward. Like who am I going to sit with?” We all have that. I still have that feeling sometimes. I'm in situations many times where I'm the only woman in a scenario, and I'm like, hmm, which table of all men … am I going to sit at? And it feels awkward.And so sometimes just them knowing that you feel it too is helpful. But I think it's also helpful to equip them and to say, hey, when you're in a situation like that, other people are probably feeling nervous too, and so it's good to go in with three questions so that you have them on your mind when you're walking into an awkward situation. It can be a question like, hey—let's picture the school lunchtime—what's your next class after this? That anybody can answer. It's pretty easily, yeah, whatever.Second one, you know, hey, where do you live? Or something like that, maybe something I'm thinking as I'm thinking in a business context, where are you from? But just some easily accessible questions that kids can answer. It could be, Are you going to the game this weekend? Whatever it might be so they feel equipped to actually reach out to someone else with a question and that can help conversation start.[43:27] Jonathan: This one's sort of on a similar vein but on a different level. “How do our teens manage the social rejection when you are following Christ?”[43:44] Melissa: Yeah. I think it is really helpful to put before our kids that we are stranger and aliens in this world. And you know my kids go to a … they were blessed to go to a Christian school, so they did not have to feel it at the level certain kids are going to have. But they did still get teased. All, especially, for being, oh, you're the professor's daughter. When she's in Bible class, even the teacher looks to her. “Well, would your dad agree with this?”[44:14] Jonathan: Oh dear. I had a little bit of that, too, with my father being a pastor. What would your dad say?[44:18] Melissa: It's the awkward … you have to be the super-spiritual one in every instance. And we just talk some about feeling a little bit like you don't belong is actually a good sign. And that means we're not home yet.[44:36] Jonathan: Great reminder.[44:37] Melissa: Yeah. When we talk about home is heaven, it makes sense.[44:43] Jonathan: Oof. “How do you parent a child that doesn't realize their friends are unhealthy for them?” These might all have a little bit of a sigh.[44:54] Melissa: It's tough. I'm a big believer in question-asking rather than telling. So hey, it seems like John did this and this and this. Do you think a good friend would be like in this scenario? What would you want him to do in that scenario? And then sometimes they can start to uncover, hey, this isn't the best type of person. But it always good to  maybe pause and ask why are they turning to this kind of friendship? And I mean, yeah, again, praying that the Spirit would waken their hearts to see the destructiveness. Always be praying. In every one of these scenarios, let me just say—[45:37] Jonathan: It starts with prayer.[45:38] Melissa: It starts with prayer. [45:39] Jonathan: I'm with you. This is good, and this question actually comes into one of your chapters in your book. “How do you prevent sports from becoming an idol, especially in regards to travel?” [45:58] MELISSA: Yeah, it's tough. I would manage it very carefully and just remember as good as your kid is, they probably will not play in college, and even more likely are they to create a career out of this. But you do want them to create a career and a life out of being a church member. So guard your church time. It doesn't mean you never miss. We've all missed church for various reasons, whether it's travel or just vacation. You couldn't get to church for some reason. You could say if you're traveling it's a great opportunity to take your kid to other churches. My kids really benefited from seeing other church traditions when we traveled. So it was great for them. One Sunday we went to a Baptist church, and they had grown up Presbyterian, so they only saw babies get baptized. It was Easter. It was spring break, so we were traveling, and they had this full-immersion baptism. Well, my kids were on the edge of their seats, and they were like, “what is happening here?” So for them it was great. It was a great conversation to say, “Oh, this is how they do it.” Those are great conversations to have. [47:05] Jonathan: “Courtship dance. How to handle it now.” There's not a lot of Scripture on dating. How do you all navigate that with your kids?[47:59] Melissa: We have had very little experience in this, not because we have had rules, not because of any other reason than our kids have just not dated. I think the benefit of maybe going to a small school is they're like, we've known these people since we were five. I'm not going to date them. My daughter is getting ready to get married, and she is marrying a guy she knew all through college. They met at Chapel Hill and were friends for three years and their senior year starting dating. I will fully admit, it was as easy as it could have been, and he is delightful and we're so glad they're getting married.So what I would say with my lack of experience is I do believe that rather than have rules it's better to have conversations in this area. And so when your kid comes home to you at fifteen and says, “I really like this kid,” one, be glad they're willing to talk to you about it. Secondly, say, “What do you like about them? Tell me what's great about them.” Be curious rather than controlling. If I could impress anything, be curious about your kid rather than control them. And so I would just say it's good to have standards. When you're talking about sexuality standards, you need to have those conversations whether they're dating or not. So that should be happening well before they're dating. way before the teen years. So I'm just assuming that in these conversations those have happened beforehand.But then I think modeling good friendships. If your kids are developing good friendships, it's a big precursor to developing a good and strong marriage and good and strong dating. But I think the main thing you want to do is keep the conversation open. Hold your tongue and listen.[49:45] Jonathan: Keeping a distraction-free family. Sort of like no cell phones at the table kind of thing?[49:57] Melissa: Yeah. You know it's just funny. We didn't have some of those rules, I guess. It was just understood that that's what we were doing. And I would say a big thing I would probably highlight is if you're going to watch a movie, all watch the same movie. And so, yeah, that means you're going to watch a lot of movies you don't really want to watch as a parent, but I'd rather have all five of us in the den together watching a movie that maybe everyone had to compromise on, than all of us in separate rooms, watching what we want to watch.[50:32] Jonathan: And I know Mike's favorite movies are horror films, right?[50:35] Melissa: No, he has to watch those alone. He's not allowed to watch those with us.[50:39] Jonathan: I was going to say. Here's a good one. “How do you balance contentment and complacency and still encourage hard work?”[50:50] Melissa: I think contentment goes right alongside with hard work. But complacency is a little different. So I think you know your child. Some children are going to need to be told, hey, you need to slow down. Some kids are going to need to be told, you need to speed up. And that's okay. But you're going to have to know your individual child to know if they're not living up to who God has made them to be or if they're trying to prove something to the world. You're going to have to know that better as a parent, so it's probably going to be different for every kid.[51:27] Jonathan: This is similar to different types of child, but “How do you parent the high-achieving, focused child, how to best support their talents?” And then we'll do the other side of that.[51:37] MELISSA: Yeah. I think with the high-achieving, focused child, it's really good to make sure they're not putting their worth and value in their performance. And so you're going to have to just work with them on that and walk through that with them and encourage them that they are beloved not because of what they do but because of who they are in that. Because they're going to fail one day, and then how you deal with their failure and mistakes is really important because those kids aren't going to be used to it, and they really need it. They need to feel what it feels like to fail sometimes. And they're going to be really uncomfortable in that moment. And so walking through that with them graciously is really important.[52:20] Jonathan: Flip side, I suppose, is “How do you parent the low-achieving, unfocused child?”[52:27] Melissa: Yeah, I mean, that's a really hard one, I have to admit.[52:30] Jonathan: Yeah, because it's different.[52:31] Melissa: It's totally different, especially if it's a child like “I know this child can do things.” One, if it is a boy, let me just say they really will get it together eventually. A lot of boys, their frontal lobe—great book called The Teenage Brain. You should read it. It's written by a neuroscientist who had two boys. It's great. I mean, their brains really are taking long to develop. I taught high school, and let me tell you, the boys were not winning in high school. They forgot their stuff, the reason they had B's rather than A's was not because they were not smart enough, it's because they did not turn in their homework.They really will, by their junior and senior year, developmentally get it together. It's the girls are just developing earlier. Some of the front-lobe stuff is connecting earlier. It's biological. So yes, have expectations, but just know that with your son you might have to remind him five times, “Hey, did you pack your lunch today? Did you pack your lunch?” Don't pack it for him, but you might have to remind him more on those things.[53:35] Jonathan: “When they experience rejection or seek acceptance from the wrong sources, how do we navigate that?” And I think that's one of your … that's one of your chapters.[53:47] Melissa: Yeah, I think that different again this one is just going to have to be prayer. Because it shares a little bit about where their heart is leaning. I mean, you can see this in some kids. Some kids just always want to be on the edge, and you can see it. I think this is where you pray and you do trust that the Lord will somehow use this season in their life.But also I think to ask questions like, “Hey, why do you want to do that? What's going on? Why is that attractive?” And it's difficult if you're not that type of personality to even understand. Like I don't want to get burned, so I stay way, far away from a fire, right? But some people are just drawn to the fire and they want to get close up to it. So sometimes it's good to just ask, “Hey, why do you want this? What's going on?” Again, I think with each kid it's going to be a little bit different, so it's important to ask what's going on with their hearts and to keep probing and keep praying.[54:50] Jonathan: Yeah. All right, I'll make this the last one. “What is the Kruger's' take on how much we are requiring church attendance, devotions, spiritual practices versus giving teens the freedom of choice?”[55:03] Melissa: That's interesting. So you're saying how much we require it versus how much we just let them make that choice.[55:12] Jonathan: In terms of family devotion. Churchgoing I guess is part of the question. [55:22] Melissa: That's a good question. That makes sense. So I'm totally fine with “you're going to go to church on Sunday” just because I don't make school a choice. If you can go to school all day, you can go to church, so that's just fine with me. If they don't believe, I'm like, “That's fine, you don't have to believe, but you're going to go to church because we go to church, just like you're going to go to school,” and I'm okay with that.When I comes to family devotions, that was again just something we had always done, so it was never a new thing. It would be like my kids saying, “Oh, all of a sudden I don't want to brush my teeth.” “Huh, really? You've brushed your teeth since you were two. You want to stop now.” Some of these habits, when you can start them young, they just don't know any different. My big hint to young parents is they only know the home you make normal for them. And so they don't know that no other family's having family devotions. When it comes to personal Bible reading, that was something I did not force at all. We gave our kids Bibles, they saw our habits and our practice, and I watched as each of my kids became interested in the Bible on their own.We did not say, “Hey, you need to read it every day.” When you're putting them in church and you're having devotions, you're showing them what you value and at some value they've got to start picking up on those personal habits. That felt much more like the very relational, intimate walking with the Lord, and I wasn't going to try and force that on them. So there are spaces, I think, where you say, “Hey, this is what we do as a family,” like go to church or have prayer time before breakfast. That's just our family rhythm, and yes, you need to participate. But when it came to their own faith and their own growth, by the teen years I think that's starting to be put in their hands.[57:04] Jonathan: All right, before we go, encouragement for parents who are feeling overwhelmed, discouraged—which is probably every parent.[57:13] Melissa: Yeah. Exactly. If you're feeling overwhelmed, this is where I'm always like go back to the basics. Read the Bible. Be encouraged. God is with you and He is parenting you while you're parenting your teen. Be in prayer, ask for His help, and be around the people in the church. And so again, that makes life a lot more simple, right? Read your Bible, it will change you, it will change how you parent. Prayer will give you hope that God can change your child. And the church will give you the community you need. And then say no to a lot of other things, but simplify your life so that those things can be a priority. [57:56] Jonathan: Well, the book is Parenting with Hope: Raising Teens for Christ in the Secular Age. Melissa Kruger, it's always so fun, and you've knocked out the lightning-round questions and I just want to say thank you so much for taking the time to be on Candid Conversations.[58:14] Melissa: Thanks for having me. It was fun.[58:16] Jonathan: Absolutely. Pleasure.   

Melissa Kruger serves as the Vice President of Discipleship Programming at The Gospel Coalition. As an author and Bible teacher, she regularly teaches women in her community and speaks at conferences around the country. I'm so excited to have her on the show today to talk about her latest book, Parenting with Hope: Raising Teens For Christ in a Secular Age, and dive into the ins and outs of raising teenagers. We talk about transitioning with your children as they grow, modeling a life of faith, creating a prayerful home, and so much more. In a culture that often implies that the teenage years are miserable and difficult, Melissa encourages parents to not overlook the beauty and joy in this chapter. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or simply someone who influences young lives, this conversation is SO important, and I can't wait for you to hear it! 2:00 – Melissa 101 Vice President of the Gospel Coalition Mother of 3 and wife Former math teacher An unexpected path to writing 16 books 6:42 – Changing The Parenting Narrative The negative narrative surrounding parenting teenagers and tweens Understanding the development stages of this time period Being gracious and patient with teenagers + adapting your parenting style 14:21 – The Gracious Home Vs. The Permissive Home Setting boundaries and allowing for mistakes A lack of structure leading to negative outcomes Setting boundaries as a parent Allowing children to face consequences in a safe and supportive environment 21:25 – Parenting Through Different Stages Transitioning parenting styles from one stage to the next Recognizing children as independent human beings Walking alongside your children as they make their own decisions Avoiding placing your identity in your children's actions or behaviors 33:03 – Modeling Faith Being gracious with failure as a parent Setting the example by walking with God Incorporating prayer into everyday life as a family Connecting with Melissa FEATURED QUOTES “I think growing up with our teen in some ways, is remaining curious about who they are and not making assumptions about why they're pushing back on something.” “I think it's really tempting as a parent sometimes to place a lot of our identity and in our teen…we start trying to control who they become, rather than walk alongside them as they're becoming who God made them to be.” “Learning how to make a mistake is actually a life lesson.” “I always say aim for patterns, not perfection.”   Learn more about Melissa: https://melissabkruger.com/ Get your copy of Parenting with Hope https://www.amazon.com/Parenting-Hope-Raising-Christ-Secular-ebook/dp/B0CFTGDKJ1 The Gospel Coalition https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/   Connect with me:  http://www.stillbeingmolly.com http://instagram.com/stillbeingmolly http://instagram.com/canilaughpod http://twitter.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/canilaughpod http://tiktok.com/@stillbeingmolly GET YOUR COPY of ‘IF I DON'T LAUGH, I'LL CRY” TODAY: Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/IIDLICbn Amazon: https://amzn.to/48VYFkG ChristianBook: https://bit.ly/IIDLICcb Target: https://bit.ly/3Shh3Q2 Walmart: https://bit.ly/3MmGVpJ Indie Bound: https://bit.ly/IIDLICib Audible: https://amzn.to/3ITcdm8 Kindle: https://amzn.to/3ITaSvv   About Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Podcast is a weekly podcast where we have honest conversations about faith, business, life, and everything in between. Hosted by speaker and author, Molly Stillman, her mission is to make you laugh, cry, and laugh till you cry. She wants to create a community of people who are unafraid to be themselves and have honest conversations about the things that matter most. Her vision is to create a safe space for people to explore their faith and share their stories and gifts with the world.

Yes, it really has been 25 years since Ralph's Party was released! You are that old! Here to talk about that book, and all the brilliant ones she's written since, is best-selling author Lisa Jewell. She tells us about her writing process, and how she cured herself of imposter syndrome. Lisa shares her top tips for budding authors, and introduces us to our new favourite website, doesthedogdie.com. We talk discuss true crime, and why so many of us women like it so much. Then there's some chat about raising adolescents - Lisa reveals why her parenting style differs from her partner's, and offers some advice on getting through the teenage years. We finish with a Scummy Mummy Confession from Helen that leaves Lisa more horrified than any of the terrible things she's written about in her books. The sexy new anniversary edition of Ralph's Party is out on 23 May. The paperback of Lisa's latest thriller, None of This is True, is out now. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter @lisajewelluk. *WE ARE ON TOUR!* Come and see our live comedy show in 2024! We are on our way to Cockfosters THIS SATURDAY, then Kent, Oxford, Swansea, Cardiff, Mansfield, Leicester, Liverpool, Nottingham, Exeter, Redruth, Newbury, Watford, York, Sevenoaks... And new dates are being added all the time! Keep an eye on scummymummies.com for announcements and tickets. *WE HAVE A SHOP!* Visit scummymummiesshop.com for our ace t-shirts, mugs, washbags, sweatshirts and beach towels. FREE UK DELIVERY! We're on Twitter (@scummymummies), Instagram, and Facebook. If you like the podcast, please rate, review and subscribe. Thank you for listening! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are over the moon excited to introduce you to two brilliant parents of some amazing Stage 5 kiddos—who also happen to be two of David's very best friends. (And Sissy thinks the world of them, too!) Dave and Julie Hunt are wise and thoughtful and have so much wisdom to share on the topic of Raising Teens and Young Adults. Okay, who are we kidding? All the topics! We can't wait for you to listen in on this one! . . . . . For a deeper dive, we've now got the Ages and Stages Discussion Guides up on our website - with Try it Out sections and devotionals for each day of the week. Go to raisingboysandgirls.com/shop and scroll down to the bottom! Sign up to receive the monthly newsletter to keep up to date with where David and Sissy are speaking, where they are taco'ing, PLUS conversation starters for you and your family to share! Go behind the scenes and watch our podcast on YouTube! Download a copy of the Raising Boys and Girls Feelings Chart. Connect with David, Sissy, and Melissa at raisingboysandgirls.com. . . . . . If you would like to partner with Raising Boys and Girls as a podcast sponsor, fill out our Advertise with us form. . . . . . A special thank you to our sponsors: Hiya Health: Go to hiyahealth.com/RBG and receive 50% off your first order! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices