Feeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into Adulthood

This week’s guest, Dr. Ken Wilgus, is a psychologist and author, offering his expertise on navigating the overwhelming advice found online. He discusses the importance of discerning credible sources, especially when faced with sensational parenting headlines. They dive into a viral claim about teens' brains 'no longer listening' to parents, debunking misconceptions about brain science. Dr. Ken cautions against over-medicalizing behavior and emphasizes the value of clear communication with teens. Tune in for a dose of practical wisdom!

As the New Year kicks off, parents are encouraged to evaluate their parenting trajectory instead of adhering to rigid resolutions. Dr. Ken shares insights on identifying areas of tension and confusion at home, suggesting a 'freedom list' to gradually ease control. They discuss practical freedoms like curfews and school management, emphasizing the importance of clear expectations and consequences. Additionally, parents are reminded that their teens' choices do not define their worth. Overall, it's a refreshing take on navigating parenting in 2026.

This week on the show, Cynthia and Dr. Ken dig into the age-old issue of entitlement—how it shows up in American culture and how it shapes our teens. They talk about the everyday behaviors that reveal deeper beliefs about self-respect, responsibility, and personal standards.Dr. Ken explains why raising kids who expect rewards without effort creates long-term problems, especially when it comes to character, resilience, and financial responsibility. Together, he and Cynthia unpack how well-intentioned parents can unintentionally undermine gratitude by giving too much without teaching kids how to earn, wait, or steward what they’ve been given.They also explore the power of perspective—how serving others, seeing real-world needs, and broadening kids’ experiences can dramatically reduce entitlement and build empathy. The episode wraps with a practical reminder: gratitude and responsibility don’t happen by accident—they’re taught, and they stick best when kids see their parents modeling them first. 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" hereYou can pre-order Cynthia's book "How'd I Miss That" here  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/ Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week on the show, Cynthia and Dr. Ken dive into the often-overlooked world of adult friendship—why it matters for your emotional health and your parenting. They unpack new research on the “friendship recession,” why adults have fewer close friends than ever, and how that loneliness also impacts our parenting. Dr. Ken explains why parents need real community as their teens grow up and leave home, why your marriage can’t be your only source of companionship, and why having your teen as your “best friend” can be a warning sign—not a win. They also tackle what healthy friendships look like while raising teens, why reconciling well matters, and how to model connection in a screen-obsessed culture.Cynthia shares practical encouragement for making and keeping friendships—prioritizing connection, filling the gaps with positive assumptions, and not letting insecurity sabotage community. They wrap up with a conversation on introverts vs. extroverts and why neither gets a pass on building real relationships.It’s honest, insightful, and a much-needed reminder that friendships aren’t optional—they’re foundational. 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" hereYou can pre-order Cynthia's book "How'd I Miss That" here  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/ Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week, Dr. Ken and Cynthia tackle hot topics in teen parenting. They discuss the pitfalls of over-monitoring, especially with apps like Life360, and how it can backfire. When it comes to supporting young adults with different values, they emphasize respectful discussions over financial threats. They also dive into the rising trend of occult curiosity among teens and the importance of open dialogue. Plus, they share tips on connecting with quiet teens without pushing too hard, proving that communication is key in any relationship.

This 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 with living in a sports-centered family culture. It’s a practical, compassionate, and eye-opening conversation for every parent navigating the highs, lows, and hard lessons of teenage sports. 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" hereYou can pre-order Cynthia's book "How'd I Miss That" here  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/ Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Today, 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: AI that feels encouraging or “understanding” can be appealing, especially for kids who feel alone or unsure socially. But simulated support is not real relationship. Parents can help teens stay grounded, connected, and aware of the difference between feeling understood and being truly known by real people. 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" hereYou can pre-order Cynthia's book "How'd I Miss That" here  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/ Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 later is always better.We wrap with dating checklists, the pressure Christian young adults feel to find the “perfect godly spouse,” and one final gold-nugget from Dr. Ken that you cannot miss (hint: it has to do with our own marriages). 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" hereYou can pre-order Cynthia's book "How'd I Miss That" here  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/ Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Explore the complex world of teen bullying, from understanding the key roles of bullies, victims, and bystanders. Learn how to distinguish between bullying and teasing, and recognize signs of physical intimidation. Delve into the motivations behind bullying behavior and when parents should intervene. Discover the unique challenges of cyberbullying and the importance of maintaining open communication about social media. This engaging conversation equips parents with valuable insights on guiding their teens through these turbulent social waters.

Dr. Ken Wilgus, a psychologist and author, dives into the challenges parents face when teens drift from faith or family values. He explains the crucial differences between estrangement from parents versus God, and how this impacts parenting techniques. Dr. Ken emphasizes the importance of building trust instead of control, encourages meaningful dialogue, and offers hope that wandering can lead to growth. With practical advice on navigating teen rebellion and fostering community, he reassures parents that they're not alone in this journey.