Teen Life Podcast

Most teens don’t need more time… they need better rhythms. Summer brings freedom—but it can also quietly bring disconnection, late nights, and days that all start to feel the same. Most teens don’t need more time… they need better rhythms. In episode 193, we unpack why summer doesn’t naturally create growth—it amplifies whatever patterns are already there. We'll also address how you can help y...

It's a conversation every kid needs (whether you want to have it or not). Many parents and mentors hope the conversation about pornography never comes up—but most teens will encounter it, often earlier than expected and sometimes by accident. What matters most is not avoiding the topic, but creating a safe space where honesty can happen. Shame causes teens to hide, but curiosity invites them t...

A first job is about so much more than earning money. It’s often where teens begin learning responsibility, confidence, communication, and independence. From showing up on time to learning how to talk to adults and handle challenges, work helps teens build the kind of competence that shapes long-term confidence. But many parents struggle to know how much help is too much. Should you step in and fi...

Your teen says they want to change—but nothing seems to stick. It’s easy to assume it’s a lack of effort, but the real issue is often deeper: habits. Nearly half of what we do each day runs on autopilot, and those patterns quietly shape who we’re becoming. Instead of pushing for more willpower, this conversation helps you guide teens to notice their habits, understand what those habits are doing f...

Drama spreads fast—especially when emotions are high and information is unclear. Get a better picture of why teens gossip, how rumors escalate, and the subtle ways adults can unintentionally fuel the problem. More importantly, learn practical ways to respond without shutting teens down—so you can build trust, model integrity, and redirect conversations toward something healthier. . . In this episo...

. . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: Child Mind Institute: Teens and Anger American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry: Teen Brain: Behavior, Problem Solving, and Decision Making Michigan State: Understanding brain development is useful when handling conflict with teens New Harbor Behavioral Healthcare: Teen Anxiety and Irritability: Are They Related? Disney+: Inside...

Teens often say offensive things. So how do adults set healthy boundaries without losing connection? Teens often push boundaries with sarcasm, edgy jokes, or language that makes adults pause—but what does it actually mean? In this episode of the Teen Life Podcast, we unpack why teens use humor to test identity, gain social approval, and navigate belonging. More importantly, we explore how adults...

. . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: PsychologyToday: Why More Kids Are Starting Puberty Earlier Than Ever Before JAMA: Social Media Use and Depressive Symptoms During Early Adolescence Elsevier: Addictive Digital Habits in Early Adolescence Linked to Mental Health Struggles, Study Finds Pediatrics Nationwide: As Suicide Increases in Preteens, Investigators Expand Research in...

Teen brains aren’t broken — they’re under construction. Geek out with Karlie over brain development and learn what’s actually happening inside. You'll learn why mood swings and risky choices make sense, and most importantly, practical ways parents, teachers, and mentors can support healthy growth. . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - PMC: Maturation of the adolescent br...

How to Engage Teens with Scripture For many teenagers, the Bible feels confusing, boring, or overwhelming. But what if the problem isn’t the Bible itself, but how we approach it? We explore how parents and mentors can help teens engage the Bible as a story to live, a prayer to pray, and a truth that makes sense for their real lives. . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - How...

Coping Skills That Last a Lifetime Anxiety among teens is on the rise, but resilience can be taught. In this week’s episode, we unpack how parents, teachers, and mentors can create space for teens to fail, problem-solve, and grow stronger—skills that will carry them into adulthood. . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt - Teen Life Pod...

What You Might Be Missing Vaping and nicotine pouches are designed to stay hidden—sweet scents, sleek devices, and nearly odorless pouches make them easy to miss. Get our list of research-backed warning signs, the real health risks, and practical ways to talk with teens without shutting down the conversation. Stay informed so you can help protect the teens you care about. . . In this episode, we m...

From “Fine” to Real Talk: How to Get Teens to Open Up Tired of getting one-word answers when you ask, “How was your day?” You’re not alone. Sarah Brooks joins the team to share practical ways to move past “fine” and into meaningful conversation. Discover why timing, setting, and the right questions make all the difference—and how to listen so teens actually want to talk. Listen now and learn simpl...

What can we do to help teens balance life in a digital world? Teens and the digital world can feel inseparable—but caring adults can make a real difference. This week, Sarah Brooks joins us with simple, practical ways to guide healthier habits, from modeling screen-free time to inviting teens to help set their own limits. You’ll also hear ideas for creating offline moments of fun and connection th...

Do your teens sometimes come across as ungrateful or entitled? It’s a common concern among parents, teachers, and mentors. But entitlement isn’t a sign of failure—it’s often part of the growing-up process. In our latest podcast, we explore what’s really behind the entitlement stereotype and share practical, encouraging ways to help teens build genuine gratitude that strengthens their relationships...

Teens are using AI in ways you might not expect—from homework help and creative projects to forming relationships with chatbots. But with the potential benefits come big risks like plagiarism, misinformation, and even over-reliance for mental health. Listen this week for important information about how to guide teens toward safe and smart AI use. We'll cover the dangers, benefits, and practica...

Even with a packed calendar, connection is a vital part of everyone’s health. When teens get busy or seem distant, it’s easy to feel like you're losing your connection—but don’t take it personally. In episode 178, we discuss how to stay connected with the teens in your life, even when schedules are packed and routines are out of sync. From making the most of small moments to using technology inten...

What Do Boundaries with Teens Actually Look Like? We talk a lot about boundaries on this podcast, and for good reason—they’re one of the most important tools you have as a caring adult. But let’s be honest: it’s one thing to say “set boundaries,” and another to know what that looks like in real life. We’re getting super practical. What kinds of boundaries actually help teens thrive? Why do they ma...

How can we encourage teens to seek help when they just don’t want to? Sometimes the young people in our lives are clearly struggling, and it’s heartbreaking to watch them turn away from the support they need. We’ve all been there. What do you do when a teen refuses help? We explore why they might be reluctant, and more importantly, how we can create the kind of connection and environment that make...

. . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - . . Visit our website: www.teenlifepodcast.com Subscribe to get the episodes in your inbox: www.teenlife.ngo/subscribe Watch the podcast on ⁠YouTube⁠ ! Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter . . Podcast Music by: Luke Cabrera & Tobin Hodges Hosted by: Karlie Duke , Nino Elliott, & Brenda McAdoo Produced by: Karlie Duke & K...

Have you ever found yourself in a conversation with a teen that suddenly turns defensive or shuts down? As caring adults, we want to keep the lines of communication open, but it’s not always easy. We sit down with former FBI negotiator, mediator, and Abilene Christian University faculty member Brenda McAdoo to talk about navigating tough conversations with teens. Brenda shares expert insights on k...

Trust is the foundation of every meaningful relationship. So how do you build trust with teens—especially in a world where they may be more guarded than ever? We sit down with Brenda McAdoo; former Deputy District Attorney in Ventura County member; FBI mediator and crisis negotiator; and currently on faculty at Abilene Christian University. An expert in the field, Brenda shares practical ways cari...

Nobody wants to have an awkward sex talk with teens. Let’s be real—talking to teenagers about sex, consent, and relationships can feel awkward. But these conversations are essential. When done well, they help teens feel seen, valued, and safe. So how do we approach these topics in a way that’s age-appropriate, effective, and not totally cringe? So how do we create an open, ongoing dialogue with te...

Supporting a student with deportation fears can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to have all the answers to make a difference. In our latest episode, we discuss how to create a safe space, listen with empathy, and connect students with trusted support. . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: Dallas Observer:  How North Texas School Districts Are Facing Immigration Changes D...

Welcome to a very merry episode of the podcast! The holiday season is a great opportunity to connect with teens. Join us as the Teen Life team shares what makes Christmas feel special to them—and maybe get a little inspiration to bring back to your own holiday celebrations! We'll touch on traditions, activities, holiday food, music movies, and more. It's an episode that will have you laughing out...