Teen Life Podcast

How intentional are you about rest? Not just sleeping enough, but also intentionally setting aside time to unplug, find and create inner peace, and recharge. Join us in reflecting on what it means to care for your mind, body and soul through rest. We’ll also discuss the benefits and dangers of the Discord app- who’s using it and whether or not it’s appropriate for your teen. And you’ll want to sti...

Anyone who was young and in love once can remember the all-consuming passion of teenage romance. But is teen love real? Does it last? Chris and Karlie pull back the curtain on teen love and what happens after graduation. They’ll give you a rundown of the key features of Snapchat and potential risks and benefits. Plus, don’t miss our top list of curious questions for starting a conversation about o...

Do you ever struggle with getting teenagers to open up? Don’t miss these tried-and-true icebreakers to help create an open atmosphere in almost any group. We’ll also discuss one of the latest AI tools to storm the educational world, ChatGPT. We’ll look at the pros and cons and give you follow-up questions for talking with your teens. . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - Edu...

There’s been much ado about teens and social media in the last few years. This year’s Bark Social Media Report confirms many parents’ worst fears. So what can we do to keep teenagers safe and help them navigate online dangers like predators, dangerous health advice, sexual content, and violence, among others? Then, do you or your teen feel connected to the characters of your favorite show or a par...

Millions of teenagers are plagued with eating disorders every year. In episode 91, we follow up a previous conversation on overeating disorders and discuss restrictive eating disorders, like anorexia and ARFID. Then, we walk you through some of the (many) changes coming to your Instagram feed and a hot tip on why wet hair might be a hazard to your health. . . In this episode, we mentioned the foll...

Are you a curious listener? Get tips on how to truly connect with your teen through curiosity. We’ll take a look at when to ask the right questions and what you might want to ask. Then, learn more about the pros and cons of the latest app to circulate among teenagers- the Gas app. . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - Teen Life Training - EducationWeek:  ‘Gas’ Is the La...

In an excellent follow-up to last week’s episode with Dr. Borba, episode 89 revisits a topic from one of our most listened-to episodes. Identity formation. As caring adults, it’s our job to help teens grow and develop. At the same time, it is essential that we let them find their own identities! Listen for important tips on when to hold on and how to let go. . . In this episode, we mentioned the f...

What takes a kid from being a “striver” to being a “thriver”? Dr. Michele Borba is an educational psychologist, best-selling author, and TODAY show contributor who has spoken to over one million participants on five continents and to countless media about child development issues. We know you’ll enjoy this episode from May 2021, when Chris talks with Dr. Borba about the 7 teachable traits that, wh...

Learn what makes Gen Z's most popular app tick in this informative review of everything you need to know about TikTok over the last two years. Don't miss the link to the Ultimate Adult Guide to TikTok here below. . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - Teen Life: The Ultimate Adult Guide to TikTok - TikTok Stats: 35+ TikTok User Statistics: How many TikTok Users Are There In 2...

Join us for a special episode where the Teen Life staff share their own Christmas traditions. Chris and Karlie are joined by Program Director, Tobin Hodges, and Development Director, Priscilla Morrison, who give their insights into ways to make the holidays fun (and less stressful) for the whole family. . . In this episode, we mentioned the following Christmas movies: - White Christmas - Home Alon...

What Christmas traditions do you look forward to every year? Chris and Karlie share a plethora of great ideas for holiday traditions that will involve the teenagers in your family and create great memories for everyone. We’ve also got a great lineup of movies to see this season in theaters or on streaming. Be sure to stay tuned for our tip on how to make the holidays more meaningful. . . In this e...

Still looking for the perfect gift for your teenager? You’ll love these great picks that your favorite teen is sure to appreciate. This is a special Christmas episode you won’t want to miss! . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - Teen Life Podcast:  Episode 38: Social Media & The Metaverse - Lubbock Christian University:  Youth Ministry Degree - LCU Contact:&nbs...

Energy drinks have increased in popularity in recent years, especially among teens. But are they really healthier than soft drinks? Chris and Karlie talk about why energy drinks are on the rise and whether or not adolescents should be consuming them. They’ll also take a look at the most recommended breathing techniques for reducing stress. Controlled breathing is a free, easy-to-implement resource...

The signs that your teen has an overeating disorder can be easy to miss. We offer signs to look for and tips for a healthy relationship with food in episode 82. Plus, we’re confident you’ll find this episode’s list of teen terms incredibly helpful. Learn what terms like “W or L” and “body shop” mean and how to use them (or not). . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - Nemours...

Even small acts of kindness can make a big difference! Whether being kind to one another or being kind together, we’ve got some great ideas on how planning acts of kindness with your teen can bring you closer together. Then, how much do you know about anime and manga? Chris and Karlie dive into the world of comic books and animated shows originating in Japan. Discover the different kinds and how t...

Around 15% of people have social skill challenges and communication difficulties that are considered to make them socially awkward. Teens can feel socially awkward in any setting, including school, special events, large family gatherings, on the phone, and many more common settings. There are benefits though! Don't miss the positive and negative effects of social awkwardness, plus tips on how to o...

Everyone knows that teens can be smelly. We’ve got a straightforward list of ideas to help your teen conquer personal hygiene so they can succeed in other areas of their lives. We’ll also talk about who’s most at risk for consensual and non-consensual sexting and the conversation you need to have. Plus, how to find hidden photos on an iPhone. PS.  You can now find us on YouTube , too! . . In...

Feelings of belonging can improve overall health and decrease the likelihood of mental health issues and substance abuse, but do you know how to encourage belonging in your kids? Don't miss this important conversation that could drastically improve your teen's long-term quality of life. Then, get some great, easy-to-do Halloween costume ideas for your teen and for you! . . In this episode, we ment...

When we learn to apologize sincerely, we learn to build better relationships. It’s a skill that is often hard for adults, but imagine how much stronger our friendships and our respect for ourselves would be if we learned to apologize as teenagers. In episode 77, we explore what makes a good apology and why it’s important for teens. Also, stay tuned for an update on the latest from Taylor Swift.&nb...

Up to 50 times stronger than heroin and up to 100 times stronger than morphine, fentanyl has been making the news lately for its recent re-emergence. Learn the signs of overdose and why you should be talking with your teenagers about fentanyl specifically. Then, learn the latest changes in social media with our TikTok update. And get a hot tip on keeping school lunch prep fast and easy! . . In thi...

Teenagers often have a hard time getting enough sleep, which can have negative consequences for every aspect of their lives. Busy schedules are only part of the problem though. Teen brains are actually wired to go to sleep later and sleep longer in the morning. Episode 75 explains why and talks through a few ways to help teens get the sleep they need. Then, don't miss the segments on Fall trends l...

Are you or your teen dragging during your morning routine? Be sure to catch Chris and Karlie’s tips for getting a natural energy boost. You’ll also want to pay attention to the latest update on teen vaping and how marketing to teens resulted in a 9-figure settlement with Juul, a leading brand in e-cigarettes. Then, how are you celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month? We’ve got some practical...

Dating violence in teens is a topic we can’t ignore. Especially when 1 in 12 teens experiences physical violence and 1 in 12 teens experiences sexual violence. We talk about who’s most at risk and how to help teenagers in abusive relationships. Then, don’t miss Karlie’s crash course on reels and tips for how to raise critical thinkers. . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - C...

Do you ever wonder when it’s ok to break confidentiality with a teen? Maybe your teen shares something with you about a friend or your kids’ friends share something with you. When is it ok to talk with someone else about it, even if they’ve asked you not to? Chris and Karlie tackle this tough topic in episode 72 of the Teen Life Podcast. Also, tune in for fun family shows and movies to watch with...

In honor of Suicide Prevention Awareness Week, Chris and Karlie talk through tips for checking in with teenagers you might be worried about. They'll also share Karlie's experience with the app BeReal, which is gaining traction with teens and young adults. Don't miss the talking points for parents and teens about BeReal and how you can use it to connect with your teen. . . In this episode, we menti...