Shows
Feeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 228: Winning the Game: How to Parent Well Through Teen AthleticsThis week on the show, Cynthia and Dr. Ken dive into the wild, wonderful, and occasionally mind-numbing world of youth sports. Dr. Ken breaks down what’s really going on inside our teens—whether they’re thriving, quitting, or somewhere in between. He unpacks why control is the number-one issue in teen athletics, why even highly talented kids sometimes walk away from their sport, and how parents can set fair expectations without taking over their child’s identity. There are also discussions on injuries, identity loss, parent pressure, car-ride conversations, and the subtle emotional pitfalls that come...
2025-11-1824 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 227: Raising Teens in the Age of AIToday, Dr. Ken and Cynthia talk about how AI is shaping the world our teens are growing up in. From homework help to “AI friends” and therapy bots, this technology is moving fast — and our kids are encountering it whether we feel ready or not.Instead of panic or hard bans, Dr. Ken encourages thoughtful, ongoing conversations. We discuss how AI is affecting schools, what healthy use can look like, and why it's important to help teens think critically rather than rely on technology to think or feel for them.We also address the emotional side...
2025-11-1127 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 226: The Case for Earlier Marriage (and why parents panic)Today we’re talking marriage with Dr. Ken Wilgus — not our marriages (although we detoured there), but our kids’ future ones. Dr. Ken discusses research that says we shouldn’t panic if our kids consider getting married younger than the cultural norm. Marriage isn't just a “capstone” once you're fully established — sometimes it’s a cornerstone that builds adulthood together.We unpack cultural trends, fear-based parenting, and why avoiding the dating conversation doesn’t actually protect your teens. Dr. Ken challenges us to talk openly about marriage, consider how our own marriage baggage might influence our advice, and stop assuming...
2025-11-0431 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 225: Bullies, Victims and Bystanders - Teens and BullyingFrom managing the influence of social media to knowing when (and how) to step in, this conversation reminds us that our role as parents isn’t to fix everything—it’s to stay present and connect with our kids often.If you have a minute, please leave us a review. We love hearing listeners encouraging other listeners. You can order Dr. Ken's book "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" hereYou can order Cynthia's book "Life Is Messy, God Is Good" here Got questions or feedback? We want to hear fro...
2025-10-2834 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 219: But What About A Teen Who's Diagnosed With [fill in the blank]?Today we tackle the common issue of how parents should handle planned emancipation when their teenager carries one or more diagnoses like ADHD or Oppositional Defiant Disorder or Autism Spectrum Disorder or Dyslexia or Depression or Anxiety or Trauma etc. etc. etc. This question comes up a lot! Dr. Ken’s take is clear and freeing—the diagnosis shapes how you coach but not whether you give freedoms. Parents can adjust their approach, offer tools, and expect some natural consequences, but lowering the bar only delays the growth they’ll need when the world stops making accommodations. If you have a...
2025-09-1628 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 218: Teens That Can't Wait To Leave And Teens Who Never LeaveThis week we talk about teenagers who seem very eager to grow up and those who seem to fear adulthood. How should parents handle those differences? Is this a temperament thing? Are they afraid to leave us? Isn't it a good thing if our adolescents feel like they want to hang with us all the time?
We cover this and much more. Did you even know we have an Instagram account? Dr. Ken didn't!
Plus Dr. Ken and Cynthia decide on a "safe word" if Cynthia goes off the rails!
If you have a minute, please leave us a review...
2025-09-0927 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 217: Start The School Year Off Right With Your Teen Plus A Huge Announcement!We're starting off our 6th season with a bang! Today we review the things you need to check as a parent to help the new school year start off right. Feeding The Mouth parents know to review their teenagers' freedoms, expectations and who's more worried about school, you or your kid? This year you better double check your teenager's school cell phone policy. Jonathan Haidt's book, "The Anxious Generation" https://a.co/d/bfHCLmG (see Episode 181) is having major effects around the world.
Also, "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" makes a major step forward as Jessica steps back from...
2025-09-0233 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 216: End Of Season 5 And Time For Summer Break!Well it's that time again. School's out for a lot of you and Jessica and Dr. Ken are breaking for the summer. We leave with a few reminders for summer with teenagers. Hint: it has to do with those stupid phones.
If you have time, drop us a line this summer with questions or further thoughts on topics you want to hear on "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You." Your feedback really helps.
Thanks to you all who have made "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" among the top parenting teens podcasts.
If you have a minute, please leave us...
2025-05-2705 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 215: Dr. Ken's Soapbox: Parenting "Experts," Controlling Teen's Eating and Shared RoomsToday we take on some of the questions we get from parents. How can you give room freedom if your teenager shares that room with a sibling? What can parents do about making sure their adolescent is eating well? Also, Jessica accidentally hits a nerve with Dr. Ken by asking about what sources parents use to get parenting advice. Cue the soapbox.
If you have a minute, please leave us a review. We love hearing listeners encouraging other listeners.
You can order Dr. Ken's book "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" here: https://a.co/d/hBnlbzI
Got questions or...
2025-05-2027 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 214: How To Overcome IsolationToday, Dr. Ken interviews Jessica who tells her own story of being proactive in overcoming the trend toward isolation that pervades our culture. Parents can't just set up "play dates" for their teenagers, they must themselves have a grounded group of friends who they share their lives with. What role does extended family play in these essential relationships? What about just being friends with the parents of your kids friends? We discuss these and other aspects of pushing back against an increasingly individualized culture.
If you have a minute, please leave us a review. We love hearing listeners encouraging other...
2025-05-1333 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 213: Why So Many People Are Going “No Contact” with Their ParentsToday we review a growing trend of adults choosing to go "no contact" with their parents. Dr. Ken reviews the kind of circumstances that do call on people to put strict boundaries around their contact with parents and other family members. This new trend however, seems to stem from a growing number of therapists that have over-defined trauma and therefore recommend that their clients eliminate any person that they no longer find "supportive."
Today's episode stems from the New Yorker article of the same name - https://www.newyorker.com/culture/annals-of-inquiry/why-so-many-people-are-going-no-contact-with-their-parents
If you have a minute, please leave...
2025-05-0628 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 211: All About Sex and DatingToday we revisit the topic of sex and dating. How should parents talk about it with their teenagers? What if my teen doesn't seem to have any interest in these sorts of issues? Is it a good idea to get your kid on birth control? Jessica and Dr. Ken talk about all this and more.
Dr. Ken references the book "The Case Against the Sexual Revolution" by Louise Perry - https://a.co/d/evvl3pc
If you have a minute, please leave us a review. We love hearing listeners encouraging other listeners.
You can order Dr. Ken's book "Feeding...
2025-04-2233 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 210: The Rise in Teen Sextortion Cases and What You Can Do About ItRecent headlines tell us about a rise in teen boys being lured into sending explicit photos and then blackmailed for money to avoid these being published on the web. Some of these cases have resulted in suicide and the FBI has sent out warnings to parents. Of course, exploitation through explicit photos is nothing new to teen girls as well. How are parents to respond to these threats? Jessica and Dr. Ken approach these issues as an opportunity for real dialogue and not another occasion for fear. Open conversation about online threats are particularly important for parents of teenagers that...
2025-04-1524 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 209: All About Addiction in TeenagersToday Dr. Ken and Jessica discuss all things addiction related. More parents worry about addiction in their kids. Is this awareness a good thing? What is the value in classifying certain problems as "an addiction"? What can parents do when they worry their teen is addicted to alcohol, drugs or anything else? What about adolescents who have a parent who is an addict?
If you have a minute, please leave us a review. We love hearing listeners encouraging other listeners.
You can order Dr. Ken's book "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" here: https://a.co/d/hBnlbzI
Got questions...
2025-04-0839 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 208: Lying, Disrespect and Other, Common Issues in Limit-Setting with TeenagersToday we finish our series on limit-setting with teens by covering common, miscellaneous issues. These are the things that often come up like, what to do about lying, is there a maximum effective time limit to grounding, or how to best limit disrespect. What about those teenagers that continually harass parents until they give in? As usual Jessica and Dr. Ken focus on being effective in limiting inappropriate or dangerous behavior while maintaining a path toward age-appropriate independence.
If you have a minute, please leave us a review. We love hearing listeners encouraging other listeners.
You can order Dr. Ken's...
2025-04-0132 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 207: When Parents Have Different Limits, They're Both IneffectiveIt's not uncommon for parents to have differences in what they prioritize and the ways they implement limits with their teenagers. It is essential however, that parents do all they can to overcome these differences and present a unified message to their teens. This is important not just for your marriage but for your effectiveness with your adolescents. When you as a parent have different limits from their other parent, teenagers don't "secretly realize" that you're the right parent, they just think both parents are nuts. Jessica and Dr. Ken discuss ways to overcome these differences and how to talk...
2025-03-2518 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 206: Anger and Yelling Make You Weaker as a ParentToday we continue with our series on effective limit-setting with adolescents. Some parents think when they lose their temper with teenagers they "hate to do it" but it "needed to happen." Jessica and Dr. Ken talk about how yelling only confirms a teenager's suspicion in the first place... that you're a bully not really a parent. Instead we talk about ways to avoid losing your temper and what to do if you still occasionally get pretty angry with your teenager.
You can order Dr. Ken's book "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" here: https://a.co/d/hBnlbzI
Got questions...
2025-03-1823 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 205: Speechmaking: Adolescents Learn From Experience, Not WordsToday we continue with issues related to limit-setting with teenagers. As tempting as it is, making speeches is very ineffective in influencing adolescent behavior. Teenagers need to experience the consequences of their choices, either natural or through parent consequences. Jessica and Dr. Ken talk about both of their own struggles to avoid this trap and the situations that tempt parents to pontificate instead of act. We offer suggestions to increase your adolescent's learning experiences while reserving words for the most useful opportunities.
You can order Dr. Ken's book "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" here: https://a.co/d/hBnlbzI
...
2025-03-1116 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisdode 203: Reviewing Planned Emancipation Part 2 - The Expectations and Consequences ListThis week we continue our review and clarifying the process known as "Planned Emancipation." Last week we talked about the "Freedoms List" and this week we take on a completely different list; the "Expectations and Consequences List." We review the purpose of having this list (i.e. to reduce conflict at home, the strengthen your effectiveness) as well as the critical factors in implementing this list. We review many questions like "what do I do when my teen is constantly late in the mornings before school?" "How can I get her to do her chores around the house?" as well...
2025-02-2529 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 202: Reviewing Planned Emancipation Part 1 - The Freedoms ListMany of the questions that listeners send us ask for more details on the "Freedoms List" and the "Expectations and Consequences" list. How are they different? Can't we just put both of these on one, big list? Today we take on part one of these questions and clarify what the freedoms list is for and why it's different from the expectations and consequences list (which we'll talk about next week). We answer many other questions like, should you present these 2 lists at the same time? Are there other ways to grant freedoms other than putting them on a list? We...
2025-02-1830 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 201: Teenagers, Jobs and EmployabilityDoes your teenager have a job? Should you make them get one? When? How? Today we talk about the challenges and importance of adolescent job experiences. How should parents balance adolescent work over the summer with important family vacation time? Should a college kid "follow their heart" or get a marketable degree? Today we discuss all things job related including Jessica and Dr. Ken's work history as adolescents (SPOILER: Dr. Ken got fired... sorta).
You can order Dr. Ken's book "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" here: https://a.co/d/hBnlbzI
Got questions or feedback? We want to hear...
2025-02-1124 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 200: Teenagers and DeathToday we take on the issue of teenagers' relationship with death. Do they think much about it? Why are some teens so focused on death in movies, games etc.? What's the deal with zombies? Jessica and Dr. Ken advise best ways to talk about the subject of death and the need to talk about and not run away from such an important subject, especially Christian parents.
In this episode we reference the Netflix documentary "Don't Die"
We also reference L.S. Dugdale MDs book "The Lost Art of Dying" https://a.co/d/e5vhDAq
You can order Dr. Ken's...
2025-02-0428 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 199: Teenagers and Body ShamingToday we talk about the sensitivity teenagers feel about their bodies and how to help them deal with struggles that arise around their physical development. Turns out, teenagers have control over how easily shamed they feel when facing criticism. We talk about ways to increase your teen's resilience to shame. When should parents step in to talk to school or other authorities to support their teenager who's struggling with being bullied? We also focus on the importance of encouraging adolescents to be supportive of their friends and siblings.
You can order Dr. Ken's book "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You"...
2025-01-2824 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 198: Talking Politics with TeenagersWith recent political events, parents sometimes wonder how best to talk with adolescents about these issues. Jessica and Dr. Ken review the most effective ways to encourage teenagers to think and talk about political hot button issues. We also explore the odd situation of kids who are more conservative than their own parents. Guess who's kids we're talking about!
You can order Dr. Ken's book "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" here: https://a.co/d/hBnlbzI
Got questions or feedback? We want to hear from you!
podcast@feedingthemouth.com
Music provided by the great John David Kent - https...
2025-01-2117 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 197: When Your Teenager Is Out of ControlToday we answer a listener question about dealing with a teenager who doesn't follow parents' rules and seem unfazed by any consequences parents give. Is this common? What about parents who "give up" on their teenager but let them live at home? Dr. Ken makes it clear that this is not a common problem and should be evaluated. Also, we talk about common reasons these situations occur.
You can order Dr. Ken's book "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" here: https://a.co/d/hBnlbzI
Got questions or feedback? We want to hear from you!
podcast@feedingthemouth.com
Music provided...
2025-01-1416 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 196: How to Have a Great Spring with Your High School SeniorNow that we've reached the spring of 2025, it's time to review the best ways to finish out with a high school senior. Even the most dedicated "Feeding The Mouth..." parent can struggle with these last months of their kid's adolescent life. Today we talk about how a parent can be most effective in helping a high school senior with preparation for college, trade school or whatever path their young adult child will taking after high school. Being effective means clearly and continually announcing the freedoms your senior has and using that as a basis for open and regular communication about...
2025-01-0726 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 195: The Fire and the Knife - Lessons From Father AbrahamToday we discuss one of the most unusual chapters in any parenting book. In the new edition of "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" Dr. Ken includes a chapter titled "The Fire and the Knife - Lessons From Father Abraham." This is really a challenge for parents who are Christians or are practicing Jews at least. For parents who are serious about their faith, there can come points in the life of raising children that we are challenged with the incredibly hard choice, "who is more important to you, God or your child?" This was the choice that God gave...
2024-12-1717 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 194: The Pros and Cons of Self-AwarenessAdolescents are more focused on their inner lives than ever before. But is this always a good thing? Jessica and Dr. Ken discuss yet another new chapter in the second edition of "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You." It's not enough to encourage teens to know their own feelings. This focus needs to be balanced with genuine concern for others. When your teenager tells you she's depressed or that he's anxious, is there ever a time to minimize or even ignore their complaints. Today we take on these and other important aspects of adolescent self-awareness.
You can order Dr. Ken's...
2024-12-1025 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 193: Keeping Marriage Alive When Your Teenagers Are Killing You!When parents are busy raising children, a good marriage can seem like a luxury that they just don't have time for. Jessica and Dr. Ken argue that a good marriage is an essential part of raising healthy teens. As "Feeding The Mouth" parents know, adolescents need to be shown a path to their own emotional support and well-being. Marriage is not only essential for parents' emotional support but also important for you kids to see. How do parents deal with differences in parenting? We answer these and other important questions about marriage while raising teenagers.
You can order Dr. Ken's...
2024-12-0321 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 192: Homeschooling and TeenagersWith the second edition of the "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" book, today we discuss the tricky balance of homeschooling adolescents. Homeschool families have changed significantly over the past few years and is a more popular choice than ever. Dr. Ken reminds parents of the important issue of "who's in control here?" in dealing with arguing teens. What circumstances are good to start homeschooling a teenager and which conditions are bad for that same choice? We cover these and other aspects of homeschooling teenagers.
You can order Dr. Ken's book "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" here: https://a...
2024-11-2618 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 191: Teenagers and GrandparentsGrandparents are often playing a larger part in the lives of their grandchildren than in the past. Most grandparents are popular with their grandkids when they're young, but what about during the teenage years? Today we discuss how understanding "Feeding The Mouth" principles can improve a grandparent's relationship with teenage grandchildren. Not surprisingly, Dr. Ken recommends being careful to respect your grandkids' parents (your own kids) even if you disagree with their parenting. What should a grandparent do when their teenage grandchild complains about their parents? Is it bad that my teen grandkids still like me making them cookies and...
2024-11-1928 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 190: Adult Children Living at HomeThere are many circumstances when adult children need to live at home. Some parents think Planned Emancipation means that's a bad thing. It isn't. Today we discuss the advantages and pitfalls of adult kids at home. What should parents pay for? What do you do when your adult kid doesn't help out around the house? Is it a good thing when parents and their adult kids become each other's best friend? We answer these and other important questions. Spoiler alert: It's not THAT an adult child is living in your home but why and for how long.
You can order...
2024-11-1223 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 189: Adoption, Foster Care and TeenagersToday Jessica and Dr. Ken take on the issues related to teenagers who are adopted or are in foster care. Adolescence often brings up issues of identity and origin stories that can be upsetting to parents who have poured themselves into the lives of their teenagers. Dr. Ken suggests that adoptive and foster parents focus more on Planned Emancipation goals even when there's a strong impulse to slow this process down. We also focus on realistic goals that adoptive parents can maintain in order to fully appreciate their experience as parents of "chosen" kids.
You can order Dr. Ken's book "...
2024-11-0520 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 188: Great Communication With TeenagersWhat does great communication with teens really look like and how can parents achieve that? Dr. Ken and Jessica outline the aspects of the parent-teen relationship that usually cause trouble in communication (spoiler alert: control battles). Also we discuss the more nuanced issue of what great communication with adolescents should really look like. Should parents really have the goal of being so close to their adolescents that "we talk about everything"? Are there even times when a parent should actually tell their teenager, "I don't think you should be telling me this"? Is it a good goal for parents to...
2024-10-2924 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 187: When Planned Emancipation Doesn't WorkParents some times complain that they "tried" planned emancipation and it "didn't work." Today we talk about the common reasons for planned emancipation not seeming to have the impact parents expected. This is all covered in the new edition of "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You."
You can preorder Dr. Ken's book "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" here: https://a.co/d/hBnlbzI
Got questions or feedback? We want to hear from you!
podcast@feedingthemouth.com
Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/
2024-10-2222 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 186: Planned Emancipation - Second EditionAs we prepare for the release of the second edition of "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You," Jessica and Dr. Ken talk about the power of planned emancipation. This method is often mistaken for the practice of rewarding children's good behavior with more privileges. Planned emancipation, by contrast, recognizes the greater freedom that comes with just getting older. Parents who fearfully try to hang on to control end up weakening their influence on their adolescents.
You can preorder Dr. Ken's book "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" here: https://a.co/d/hBnlbzI
Got questions or feedback? We want to...
2024-10-1527 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 185: Teaching Parents To Release The Burden of ParentingIn the second edition of "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You," Dr. Ken explains why he added an entire chapter on the issue of burdened parents. We discuss the difficulty of providing information for parents while avoiding the appearance of having an "inside scoop" to guarantee happy, successful teenagers.
You can preorder Dr. Ken's book "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" here: https://a.co/d/hBnlbzI
Got questions or feedback? We want to hear from you!
podcast@feedingthemouth.com
Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/
2024-10-0817 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 184: Refocusing On Individuation - The Main Thing To Know About TeenagersWe're getting ready for the release of "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" second edition. This gives Jessica and Dr. Ken the chance to clarify the most important themes that are unique to this approach to parenting adolescents. Today we review individuation which is the most important need that adolescents have by far. This need is so important that Dr. Ken even worries that if your teen doesn't seem to be pushing for autonomy that's not a good thing at all. Also, we take on common misperceptions like individuation is "just like when they were a 2 year old." WRONG!
You...
2024-10-0120 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 183: When Parents Are SufferingThis was a tough episode. When parents are struggling with serious illness or other types of suffering, how should they handle their adolescent kids? Jessica talks about her own, recent diagnosis of multiple myeloma cancer and how it has impacted her adolescent and adult children. Dr. Ken talks about his wife's cancer battle 20 years ago when their children were young. There's a significant difference in how parents should deal with their kids when they are young vs. adolescents. In suffering, parents truly show their faith.
You can preorder Dr. Ken's book "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" here: https://a...
2024-09-2425 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 182: Inside Out 2Today we talk about Pixar's big summer movie "Inside Out 2" in which the star, Riley, becomes a teenager. Although a really funny movie, Dr. Ken had a fair amount to complain about how we think about the inner life of teenagers. Jessica enjoyed it and so did her 13 year old daughter. Maybe Dr. Ken is just being a curmudgeon. You decide!
You can preorder Dr. Ken's book "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" here: https://a.co/d/hBnlbzI
Got questions or feedback? We want to hear from you!
podcast@feedingthemouth.com
Music provided by the great John David Kent...
2024-09-1725 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 181: "The Anxious Generation"Today we talk about Jonathan Haidt's new book, "The Anxious Generation." He is a social psychologist and co-author of the book "The Coddling Of The American Mind." This new book reviews massive amounts of research and delivers what Dr. Ken thinks is a "slam dunk" answer to the debate about whether smartphones are damaging to the lives of children and adolescents. We discuss the concerning data and how smartphones, social media and pornography have contributed to significant increases in adolescent levels of anxiety and depression. As you can guess, we also talk about effective ways to delay and limit smartphone...
2024-09-1030 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 180: The Big Announcement: The Revised and Expanded, 2nd Edition of the Feeding Book Is Here!The second edition of the "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" book will drop on November 5th! Dr. Ken finally finished the work of updating and expanding the Planned Emancipation message. Listeners of this podcast will recognize the new material covered in the book since they are many of the topics we talked about on this podcast over that past four seasons including:
- anxiety and depression
- ADHD, Autism-spectrum disorders and neurodiversity
- brain science and trauma
- sexuality and gender identity
- single parents
- divorce and blended families
- adoption
- adult children at home
- grandparents...
2024-09-0335 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 177: Bad Therapy - Part OneIf you haven't read Abigail Shrier's book, "Bad Therapy" you probably should take a look. Ms. Shrier's critique of an over-psychologized culture and the negative effects of poorly applied therapeutic methods is a timely warning for parents. Dr. Ken doesn't agree with all her conclusions but, as you'll see, there's plenty of very important cautions for parents considering taking their kid to therapy. This is part one of a two part (rather long) discussion.
Ms. Shrier's book can be found here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CK524HQ7/
Got questions or feedback? We want to hear from you!
podcast...
2024-05-1440 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 176: Stepparents and TeenagersStepparents can play a powerful role in the lives of children. But dealing with teenagers is a very different matter. Even if you've been in your stepkids' lives for years, the onset of adolescence can change how they see their relationship to you. Dr. Ken talks about the importance of stepparents taking an honest inventory of how the teenager sees them and the ineffectiveness of stepparents unilaterally expecting a teen's acceptance regardless of the circumstances of how they came into the teenager's life. We also review the power that stepparents have and can play in the lives of their stepchildren...
2024-05-0721 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 174: Cellphones and Teens - Another Update!By far the number one question parents ask about is managing cell phones. Just when you think you've set some guidelines they go right out the door. What's the best age to allow cell phones? Does Dr. Ken still recommend allowing complete freedom with these things at some point? We cover these and other important things to review with these stupid devices including some thoughts on parents' own usage of cellphones.
Dr. Ken references the "Wait Until 8th" campaign - https://www.waituntil8th.org/
Got questions or feedback? We want to hear from you!
podcast@feedingthemouth.com
Get the...
2024-04-3019 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 174: Marriage Problems, Separation, Divorce and TeenagersHow should parents deal with teenagers when they're having marriage problems? What are the real effects of divorce on teenagers? When and how much should parents talk to their teens about marriage problems or when considering divorce? Today Jessica and Dr. Ken take on these questions and more.
Got questions or feedback? We want to hear from you!
podcast@feedingthemouth.com
Get the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Feeding-Mouth-That-Bites-You/dp/1514762374/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1667269257&sr=8-1
Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/
2024-04-2320 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 172: Porn and Anime RevisitedIt's been awhile since we talked about pornography and issues surrounding it. Jessica is also worried about anime. Are these two related? Should parents be worried about animated porn images as well as live action videos and images? What is hentai anyway? What is the impact of trying to "lock down" a teenager's access to porn vs. the impact of open communication? We take on these and other issues surrounding harmful, sexually related imagery.
Dr. Ken makes reference to Cindy Gallop's book "Make Love Not Porn." It appears this is no longer available.
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2024-04-0925 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 171: We Interview Cynthia Yanof... Your New Best FriendToday we talk to Cynthia Yanof, host of the "MESSmerized" podcast, former host of the "Pardon the Mess" podcast and author of her new book, "Life is Messy, God is Good: Sanity for the Chaos of Everyday Life." Always relatable, Cynthia's book shares stories and lessons learned from the vantage point of a wife, mom, former lawyer, foster parent and Christian woman just trying to keep things together. Her honesty and genuine interest in everyone around her draws people to her like a magnet, including Jessica and Dr. Ken, Cynthia is the new best friend that you just met!
You...
2024-04-0224 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 170: Sociosexuality Part TwoThis week we finish our discussion on teens and sociosexuality - an individual's interest in sexual behavior without commitment. Dr. Ken reviews the need to help our daughter's understand the normal differences between male and female sociosexuality. We review the importance of talking to your teens about these differences even though you're sure to get "eye rolls" from a generation that believes everything is about individual differences.
Dr. Ken references the following books:
"The Case Against the Sexual Revolution" - Louise Perry https://www.amazon.com/Case-Against-Sexual-Revolution/dp/1509549994/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9...
2024-03-2714 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 168: Neurodiversity And TeenagersWhat is neurodiversity and what does it mean to be neurodivergent? Today we talk about this broad category that covers autism-spectrum conditions as well as deficits in attention and other cognitive, learning issues. Why is neurodiversity becoming a popular term? Is this a useful category for our kids? Jessica and Dr. Ken talk about the possible drawbacks to this category.
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podcast@feedingthemouth.com
Get the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Feeding-Mouth-That-Bites-You/dp/1514762374/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1667269257&sr=8-1
Music provided by the great John David Kent...
2024-03-1216 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 165: Alcohol, Drugs And Vaping - RevisitedIt's hard to believe how long it's been since we covered alcohol, drugs and vaping. Today we review the important differences between things that are bad for your teen and things that get them intoxicated. That difference is important! Also, Dr. Ken reviews the kind of craziness that can surround even normal sounding teens when they spend a lot of time around drunk kids. We also cover a brand new kind of nicotine delivery system (oh great)!
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Get the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Feeding-Mouth-That-Bites-You/dp/1514762374...
2024-02-2029 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 164: Parenting Teenagers In An Age Of AnxietyToday we review yet another news article about increased anxiety in teenagers. What is causing so much anxiety among our teens today? How should parents respond to teenagers who are anxious about the world they face today? When parents worry unnecessarily about every teenage struggle they run the risk of implying their adolescents are powerless to face today's struggles. Dr. Ken focuses instead on the need to parent in ways that empower adolescents and encourage them to face the troubles of their world in ways we parents could never imagine.
Today's episode refers to these articles:
Today’s Teenagers: Anxious Ab...
2024-02-1320 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 163: Mentalization - Is Your Teen Good At Knowing Other People?Does your teenager misread others? Are they able to read the motives and feelings of their peers? This is known as "mentalization." Since the COVID pandemic more and more adolescents are struggling to read others and this effects their peer relationships and all other social interactions. Today we talk about how parents can influence mentalization in their teens and encourage their relationships.
Dr. Ken references David Brooks' book "How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen" https://www.amazon.com/How-Know-Person-Seeing-Others/dp/059323006X/ref=asc_df_059323006X/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=647264363749&hvpos...
2024-02-0622 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 162: What About Starting Planned Emancipation Earlier Than Thirteen?We've had some listeners ask about starting Feeding The Mouth parenting early. You know, like what about that extra responsible, mature 11-year-old? Wouldn't it be better to encourage that kind of behavior with early Planned Emancipation? Dr. Ken's answer may surprise you.
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podcast@feedingthemouth.com
Get the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Feeding-Mouth-That-Bites-You/dp/1514762374/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1667269257&sr=8-1
Music provided by the great John David Kent! - https://www.johndavidkent.com/
2024-01-3021 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 160: Teenagers and MasturbationNOTE: Today's episode isn't suitable for young children (obviously).
We know it's hard to talk about masturbation with your kids but it's so important that you do. How did we go from a culture that lied about near fatal consequences of masturbation to a culture that celebrates it as some sort of "self-care"? Today we take on the topic of how to address masturbation with your teenagers. When should you bring it up? Who should your son or daughter talk to? This episode isn't for kids to listen to but parents definitely should.
Dr. Ken references the book: "Every Young...
2024-01-1627 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 157: Hygiene Issues with TeenagersEver have to air out your car after driving your teen home from practice? Adolescence brings major changes to teens lives including how they smell! Today we tackle the tricky issue of parents intervening with adolescents with poor hygiene including not showering, not brushing their teeth and other basics. Teenagers are too old to use a checklist like a child so what can parents do? Dr. Ken discusses paying attention to underlying factors effecting this behavior as well as ways to effectively communicate about issues of personal hygiene with teenagers.
Got questions or feedback? We want to hear from you!
...
2023-12-1214 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 151: When Teenagers Isolate In Their RoomsToday we answer a common question from listeners, "How should I handle it when my teenager spends all their time in their room"? As you can guess, Dr. Ken starts with advice on avoiding a control battle but what to do after that? What is the reason they stay in there so much? Is this a sign of depression?
Got questions or feedback? We want to hear from you!
podcast@feedingthemouth.com
Get the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Feeding-Mouth-That-Bites-You/dp/1514762374/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1667269257&sr=8-1
Music provided by the great John David Kent...
2023-10-1716 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 149: The Parenting "Finish Line" Part 1Is there a time when parents are really done parenting? We get so many questions from parents who have invested so much in parenting their teens that they're not sure what to do after high school. While you'll always be their parent, their is a point where you should no longer push your help on your kids. Dr. Ken offers even more clarity on parents as a "benevolent bank."
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podcast@feedingthemouth.com
Get the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Feeding-Mouth-That-Bites-You/dp/1514762374/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1667269257&sr=8...
2023-10-0323 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 148: Teens Who Resist Sports and ActivitiesWe've gotten email questions about adolescents who resist involvement in any sport or activity. How can parents continue to implement planned emancipation if they have to sit a watch their teenager sit around and avoid getting involved with anything? What if your teen has been successful in a sport, music or something else but they suddenly decide they want to quit? Today Jessica and Dr. Ken talk about ways to offer freedom while still requiring involvement. Plus, we talk just a bit about the state of Texas' weird fascination with homecoming mums!
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2023-09-2617 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 147: The Barbie MovieDid you see the Barbie movie? Should you take a 12 year old girl to see it? You're not still limiting your 13 and older kids on what PG-13 movies they can see are you? Today Jessica and Dr. Ken discuss the implications of the summer blockbuster hit. Some movies are worth seeing and discussing with your daughters because they reflect current cultural issues well. How can Christians make use of a movie that captures much of the confusion and disappointments that today's culture struggles with?
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2023-09-1917 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 146: The Burden of Parenting - Part TwoThis week we conclude our discussion of "parenting" as the term has come to imply some "inside track" of parental knowledge that can, supposedly, guarantee a happy and successful kid. Dr. Ken shares the truth that not only is this burden carried mostly by moms but actually by middle-class, white moms. At least that's what New York Times columnist Ylonda Gault Caviness says. https://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/03/opinion/sunday/what-black-moms-know.html Carrying too much of this parenting burden can even result in adult children who blame parents when they should be taking responsibility for their own actions. Now, more than...
2023-09-1215 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 144: "You're Only Human" part 2 - Dr. Ken Interviews Dr. Kelly KapicToday we finish our great interview with Dr. Kelly Kapic, professor of theological studies at Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, Georgia. His book, "You're Only Human: How Your Limits Reflect God's Design and Why That's Good News" is a breath of fresh air for Christian parents who constantly struggle with their own limitations as parents. In this second part, Kelly talks about how personal limitations reflects the human need for support from others. Should we be careful about "co-dependency" and other toxic relationships? What does humility really mean from a Christian perspective? These and other things get thrown around in...
2023-06-0620 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 143: "You're Only Human" Dr. Ken Interviews Dr. Kelly KapicMost all parents constantly feel guilty that they're not doing enough for their kids. For Christian parents, does our faith make any difference when we suffer like this? Theology professor Kelly Kapic's most recent book, "You're Only Human" takes on this constant guilt and self-judgment. He reminds us that human limitations are not the same as sin. As a college professor he has seen first hand how so many of our kids are taught to have those same demands on themselves. Kelly is the author of several books including his award-winning, "Embodied Hope: A Theological Meditation on Pain and Suffering."...
2023-05-3017 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 142: Another "Dr. Ken's Essentials" - Entitlement in TeenagersWe continue paring down some of the vast amount of information and focus on the critical elements that are sometimes lost. Today Dr. Ken revives a discussion about entitlement and the damage this does to children of all ages. How can parents avoid overly entitled teenagers? What if parents haven't focused on this before but decide they need to now? Also, isn't "entitled" just a nice way of saying "spoiled?"
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2023-05-2323 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 141: Dr. Ken's "Feeding The Mouth" EssentialsSummer's coming, Jessica and Ashley are swamped so Dr. Ken shares some of the essentials of "Feeding The Mouth" parenting. Today we revisit questions about phone limits, when your kid has been drinking, "dab" pens, driving and more. There's a lot of information out there but focusing in on the more common issues can, hopefully, remind us of what a Planned Emancipation approach can accomplish and also that you are no alone in dealing with these issues.
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2023-05-1218 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 140: "Why Are You Telling Me This?" Complications In Communicating With TeensHaving a relationship where your teenager shares everything with their parents is a good thing... right? Today we talk about complications in the idealistic expectation that parents want teenagers who tell them everything that is going on in their lives. Sometimes there's reason to actually ask a teenager, "... why are you telling me this?" After all, did you tell your parents everything you did when you were a teenager? Dr. Ken even admits a secret he never told his parents!
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2023-04-2516 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 139: Trash Talk, Verbal Sparring and TeenagersJessica and Ashley revive an axiom they learned in a Bible study, "our words should build, bless and benefit." How could any Christian parent disagree with these goals for our children? Well... Dr. Ken has some concerns! Today we consider the purpose of words that may seem critical. Verbal sparring can be an advanced form of "rough-housing" which, research indicates, can be helpful for children and teenagers. We also discuss the necessity of connection in shared humor and put-downs. How can parents help teens navigate these choppy social waters?
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2023-04-1819 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 137: How To Talk To Teens About School ShootingsSchool shootings only add to parents' fears for their child's safety and well-being. These fears make it hard for parents to know how to or even if they should talk to their kids about these events. As you might guess, Dr. Ken suggests there are important differences in the way parents should talk to children vs adolescents. Is this the time to talk about gun-control or mental health laws? Is it bad to let teenagers see your own emotional reactions? What if my teenager is uncomfortable with praying in times like these?
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2023-04-0415 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 135: Teens, Femininity And FeminismIn a world that insists that there are no real differences between men and women, how can parents help their daughters navigate this confusion? Today we talk about the successes and failures of feminism for our girls. We also talk about empowering girls in their femininity rather than needing to be "just like a boy."
Dr. Ken references the book by Louise Perry, "The Case Against The Sexual Revolution"
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2023-03-2223 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 133: Teens And Life PurposeAdolescents who feel a sense of purpose in life report overall higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction. What are parents to do with such information? Particularly, how does this relate to Christian parents? We cover this and other implications of such research results plus you get to listen whether Dr. Ken and Ashley were right to gang up on Jessica's desire for her children to be "world changers!"
Join us on Patreon for bonus content and more: https://www.patreon.com/FeedingTheMouthThatBitesYou
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2023-03-0720 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 131: Dads Speak: Dr. Ken Interviews Jessica And Ashley's HusbandsThis week Dr. Ken gets honest with Jessica and Ashley's husbands, Charlie and Brett. Dad's have a different take on parenting and we dive into that as well as what it's like to have wives who already "know all this stuff." Brett and Charlie get honest about what they like and DON'T like about Feeding The Mouth That Bites You. This is only a taste of the full interview where we cover fathering teenage boys vs. girls, grandparent involvement, handling disagreements with your wife and much more.
For the full interview go to our Patreon website at: https://www.patreon...
2023-02-2123 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 129: Help! It's Not Working!What do you do when you implement Planned Emancipation but things don't seem to be getting any better? It's not uncommon that we hear from parents who feel that Feeding The Mouth parenting isn't making the kind of difference they were expecting. To address this, Dr. Ken clarifies what kind of expectations are realistic for Feeding The Mouth parenting. Also, we focus on the intangibles that can cause teenagers to still feel over-controlled even though parents are trying to give freedoms. So, take a deep breath, Feeding The Mouth parenting isn't always an overnight "fix" but remains an essential adjustment...
2023-02-0716 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 128: "Good Enough" ParentingIn the 1950s, British pediatrician and psychoanalyst Donald Winnicott introduced the concept of "good enough" parenting and Dr. Ken thinks it's time we brought it back! Parents worry so much about doing parenting "right" and put a lot of pressure on themselves. Even worse, there's this idea that maybe there's some book that you haven't read that tells you how to raise your kids "the right way." Dr. Ken doesn't believe that "perfect parenting" book exists and "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" is not that book either. All parents do things they shouldn't have done and fail to do...
2023-01-3118 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 121: Parenting In ReverseToday we focus on the best way to parent when your kids are young so they will be most prepared for planned emancipation when they reach adolescence. Dr. Ken is concerned about a kind of parenting that reverses the healthy pattern of teaching and disciplining young children followed by conscious releasing control in adolescence. "Reverse parenting" is the temptation many parents follow to allow their younger children too much freedom when young and then being surprised when freedoms given in in adolescence are of little impact.Are you "parenting in reverse?"
Dr Ken refers to the book: 12 Rules for Life...
2022-11-2921 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 118: How To Talk So Your Teenager Will ListenToday we focus on the advanced communication skill of advice- giving. Dr Ken refers to this often but many parents aren't sure all the implications of this method of giving information to their teen in ways that actually have impact in their lives. We discuss that how's and when's of advice-giving as well as the importance of listening to your teenager... especially when they are saying very "wrong" things!
Dr Ken refers to the book: How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk - find it here - https://www.amazon.com/How-Talk-Kids-Will-Listen/dp/1451663889/ref=tmm...
2022-11-0832 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 115: When Dr. Ken Talks To Teenagers About "Feeding The Mouth"What is the teenagers role in Feeding The Mouth That Bites You? This week Dr. Ken talks about the message he (and other therapists) give teens about their responsibility to manage themselves while their parents are seeking to let go of their control. What do therapists say in counseling sessions with teenagers? Does everything they say have to stay confidential? Does a therapist just agree when teenagers complain about their parents?
This episode coincides with a bonus video where Dr. Ken sends a video message to teenagers whose parents are initiating Planned Emancipation.
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2022-10-2032 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 114: Help! I'm Starting Feeding The Mouth Late!Listeners often worry that they've come across Feeding The Mouth late in their teenager's development. Is it ever too late to start Planned Emancipation? What's the best way to implement these principles if my teenager is already in middle or even late adolescence? Dr. Ken assures all of us that it's NEVER too late to start Planned Emancipation and reminds us that parenting teenagers isn't "math," it's not an exact science and you'll do fine!
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2022-10-1126 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 113: The Ideal Way To Start Feeding The Mouth That Bites YouWith so many new listeners we thought we'd clearly outline the ideal way to start planned emancipation. What's the right age? Should you do some sort of ceremony? Does it matter if both parents aren't on board with this?
This is the first of a three part series. Next we cover starting late with planned emancipation. Lastly we talk about the teenager's part in all this. What does Dr. Ken say to teenagers when parents are implementing planned emancipation?
Stay tuned for bonus content on our Patreon account. Dr. Ken will record a talk that you may want to have...
2022-10-0428 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 112: Is It Ever OK To Kick Your Teenager Out Of The House?Ever get so mad at your teenager that you threaten to kick them out? Most of the time you don't really mean it or your kid is too young to even legally do that. But are there circumstances when parents actually can or even should kick their teenager out? Today we discuss circumstances that may lead to forcing a teen to live elsewhere. We also review an article on a "homeless" teen that really got Dr. Ken worked up!
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2022-09-2725 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 100: FTM Reaches 100 Episodes!It's hard to believe but this is our 100th episode! This week we celebrate the growth of the Feeding The Mouth podcast and talk about how we started all this. This is a special thanks to all our listeners. As Dr. Ken says, "If you listen to this podcast regularly you're either a dedicated parent or you need to find more interesting podcasts!"
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2022-04-0525 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 93: Dr Ken Interviews Focus On The Family's Jean DalyThis week Dr. Ken interviews Jean Daly, wife of Jim Daly president of "Focus On The Family" and "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" super fan! Jean talks frankly about her own journey as a parent of two grown sons as well as the challenges of being a part of the "Focus On The Family" ministry. Jean brings a remarkable vulnerability to her own life story that truly evidences living by grace.
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2022-02-1516 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 79: Teenagers And Bullying plus Dr Ken's Hero Teen StoriesHow should parents handle when their teenager is being bullied? What if it's your teen that is accused of bullying? Plus, Dr. Ken reviews Richard II of England, a famous teenager from history.
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2021-10-2624 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 78: What You Need To Know About Marijuana and Should You Ever Put Your Daughter On The Pill?This week Dr. Ken goes on a rant about marijuana and how easily parents can lose track of it's dangers. Also, we tackle the tricky question of birth control for teenage girls who want it.
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2021-10-1929 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 76: The Importance Of Fathers plus Teach Your Boys Real Respect For GirlsWe discuss new research on the importance of fathers in different stages of adolescent development [spoiler alert] sometimes Dads are more important than Moms! Also Dr. Ken goes on a rant about teaching our boys how to respect girls (whether the girls think they need it or not). Death to boys who ask girls for nude photos of themselves!... or maybe just grounding...
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2021-10-0538 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 72: Feeding The Mouth 2.0 is here!We're back! After a summer break Jessica, Ashley and Dr. Ken are ready to take on new Feeding The Mouth topics and much more. This season we will be doing more than before to equip parents to be the most effective they can be with their adolescents. Listen up and find out where we're headed this season.
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2021-09-0709 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 67: Not in my house! ...Common objections to Feeding The Mouth parentingSo many parents swear by the Feeding The Mouth That Bites You method... but not all parents do. Today Jessica and Ashley ask Dr. Ken some of the most common objections parents have. "Teenagers should be given freedom when they show they're responsible enough to handle them." "Sounds like Dr. Ken just wants teenagers to do whatever they want." "Grades are too important to leave to immature teenagers." And of course, the perennial favorite, "We believe in raising teenagers the biblical way!"
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2021-04-1329 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 66: Teenagers and grandparentsGrandparents are playing a bigger and bigger role in teenagers' lives. How can parents encourage their own parents to have good relationships with their grandkids? What about parents who meddle in your parenting or even undermine your parenting? Dr. Ken talks about the complications of showing respect to your own teenagers when you're around your own parents that may STILL not be respecting you as an adult.
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2021-04-0631 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 65: Teenagers and their friends!How can parents be effective in influencing their teenagers' choice of friends? This week we discuss problems with our teenagers' friends. What do I do with that friend of my kid's that I really don't like? What if I know their friends are using drugs? Is it ever ok for me to ban my teen's friend from coming to my house? Dr. Ken also talks about increasing concerns with the lack of teenage friendships in our culture.
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2021-03-3027 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 64: Traveling with teenagers!Thinking of taking a trip with teenagers?... think again! We talk about the pitfalls of teenagers on family trips and what parents can do to deal with them. Teenagers need to be brought in on the planning or maybe even given the option to stay home! What about bringing their video games? Dr. Ken also talks about the life-changing importance of taking your kids to see a different culture.
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2021-03-2318 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 62: Getting serious about planned emancipationAre you a "Feeding The Mouth" parent but things still not working out with your teenagers? Half-hearted "Feeding The Mouth" parenting doesn't work! In this episode Dr. Ken covers the most common ways that parents water down the impact of planned emancipation. Does your teenager know WHY you're giving over freedoms? Is planned emancipation a "technique" that causes responsible behavior in teenagers? Are you more focused on rules and consequences than on freedoms? Are both parents on board with this stuff? These and other issues keep parents from getting serious about planned emancipation.
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2021-03-0936 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 61: Dr. Ken asks the questionsThis week Dr. Ken turns the tables on Jessica and Ashley! We find out what J & A really think about planned emancipation, what do they struggle with and what do they get grief from other moms about. THEN, Dr. Ken gives his Feeding The Mouth quiz. This includes tough ones like "What's the difference between a privilege and a freedom" and "What if your teen doesn't drink but still wants to go to parties where other kids are drinking?" Find out how Jessica and Ashley did and test your own FTM knowledge.
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2021-03-0239 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 59: Lazy teenagersFeel like you're the only one picking up around the house? Why do so many of our teenagers seem lazy? How is it that so many parents seem more motivated about their kids' school, sports and other activities than their own teenagers are? This week we look at the underlying causes of teenage laziness and what parents can do about it. Whether its failure to get a job, help around the house or not caring about school, we look at strategies that can help. Also, Dr. Ken warns against lazy parenting!
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2021-02-1633 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 56: Even more FAQs! - Part 2Dr. Ken answers even more questions from "Feeding The Mouth" listeners. This week we answer even more good ones like: "I want to post pictures of my teenager's room!" and other ways of shaming our kids. "What do I do about my teenager's poor diet if it affects their health?" "My senior wants to stay behind when we move" and "Should we change churches because our teenager doesn't like ours?" and more.
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2021-01-2619 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 55: Even more FAQs! - Part 1Dr. Ken answers even more questions from "Feeding The Mouth" listeners. This week we get some great ones like: "What about tattoos? Is that related to cutting yourself?" "I let my teen have control over video games and it's gone horribly. What am I doing wrong?" "What do you mean by parents as a 'benevolent bank' and how does that work?" "Are there exemptions like depression or severe anxiety to a planned emancipation schedule? What about teenagers with Autism-Spectrum Disorder?" We talk about these and more on today's part one of answering all, well... almost all, of your questions.
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2021-01-1920 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 51: Teenagers and the holidaysHolidays can be so fun and full of love... unless our teenagers mess everything up! In this episode we discuss why teenagers sometimes don't like holiday family time and how to avoid impossible control battles trying to force them to smile. Instead, Dr. Ken recommends using holidays as another way to signal to our teenagers that they are now on the adult side of the holiday equation. Maybe it's high time your teen starts asking what YOU want for Christmas!
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2020-11-2418 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 27: Teen DepressionAre you concerned that your teenager is depressed? Maybe you think their response and attitude to life is typical of a teen. Listen in as Dr. Ken explains teen depression, what it is and isn't.
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2020-06-0915 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 17: Behind the scenes with Dr. Ken's wife, SallyA fun and frank interview with Dr. Ken's wife, Sally on raising their three children and life in the Feeding the Mouth That Bites You "test lab." Did Dr. Ken's wife actually bribe one of their teenagers to clean their room but "don't tell Daddy?" It didn't always go smoothly.
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2020-03-3121 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 16: "If Covid doesn't kill 'em, I will!": The Quarantine EpisodeAs Coronavirus restrictions tighten up, we talk about how to survive teenagers when everyone's locked down. What about college kids that are back home? Can you take back freedoms in an emergency? How do I get my teenager to help keep the house from falling apart? Plus, we hear a special message from Dr. Ken's brother-in-law in Beijing.
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2020-03-2441 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 13: Keeping Your Marriage Strong While Parenting TeenagersHow can parents of teenagers maintain a strong marriage? In this episode, we talk about the particular need that teenagers have to see their parents' marriage as close and stable. Also, Dr. Ken gives us some practical tips on maintaining a good marriage during the "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" years.
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2020-02-2521 minFeeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into AdulthoodEpisode 5: Teen datingTeen dating, often times this is a sensitive subject for parents that is loaded with concern. Join us as Dr. Ken answers all of our questions with expert advice as we chat about expectations, freedoms, and how to guide our teens at every stage.
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2019-12-3127 min