TIL that a podcast about parenting teens prevented a major blowup in my house

My teenage son and I were constantly clashing over chores and curfews, and it was getting BAD. I found 'Parenting Teens with Purpose' while searching for advice online, and the host's calm demeanor hooked me. One episode discussed setting boundaries with empathy, and I applied it by having a calm conversation instead of issuing demands. The change in his attitude was IMMEDIATE; he actually started listening. We still have disagreements, but now we resolve them without screaming. I can't recommend this podcast enough for parents in the thick of it. It truly saved our relationship.

3 comments

3 Comments

cameronm418d ago

Has the podcast explored applying empathy to... tech use or social drama with teens?

mason_moore576d ago

Empathy frameworks can sometimes overlook how manipulative teens are with tech honestly. That podcast episode about social media conflicts actually showed parents getting worse results when they led with empathy, because the kids saw it as performative. My nephew just weaponizes that approach to buy more screen time by fake-sharing "problems.

lilyhenderson8d ago

Oh man, I completely get where you're coming from. My daughter and I were at each other's throats over her phone usage just last week. Like @cameronm41 mentioned, tech use is a huge battleground, and applying empathy there has been a game-changer for us too. Instead of confiscating devices, I started asking about her online friendships and the pressure she feels. It opened up a dialogue where she actually shared her side instead of shutting down. What other strategies from the podcast have you tried for social drama situations?