Feeding The Mouth That Bites You: Parenting Teens Into Adulthood

This week on the show, Cynthia and Dr. Ken dive into the wild, wonderful, and occasionally mind-numbing world of youth sports.

Published: 18 November 2025

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.

Transcribed - Published: 11 November 2025

Today we’re talking marriage with Dr. Ken Wilgus — not our marriages (although we detoured there), but our kids’ future ones.

Transcribed - Published: 4 November 2025

Bullying is one of those topics that hits close to home for almost every parent—and it’s rarely simple. In this episode, Cynthia and Dr. Ken unpack the complex dynamics between the bully, the victim, and the bystander, helping us see that there’s always more beneath the surface. They talk about how bullying shows up in different forms—whether it’s physical, verbal, or online—and why it is important to understand the context and power dynamics involved. The conversation also touches on the challenges parents face in addressing bullying, the impact of social media, and the need for open communication with teenagers.

Transcribed - Published: 28 October 2025

Cynthia and Dr. Ken talk about the difference between a child who’s estranged from you versus estranged from God, why power dynamics so often make things worse, and how to focus less on control and more on trust.

Transcribed - Published: 21 October 2025

Dr. Ken tackles the often tricky topic of finances with teenagers and young adults. From who pays for what to how much control parents should keep as kids become more independent, they unpack what it looks like to guide—not grip—the financial reins.

Transcribed - Published: 14 October 2025

This week on Feeding the Mouth That Bites You, Dr. Ken unpacks a word every parent has heard lately—dysregulation—and what it really looks like in teenagers. Spoiler: it’s not always as clinical or mysterious as it sounds. Sometimes it’s just what we used to call “spiraling” or “losing it.”

Transcribed - Published: 7 October 2025

This week Dr. Ken and Cynthia discuss a challenge almost every parent faces—what to do when you and your spouse don’t see eye-to-eye on planned emancipation.

Transcribed - Published: 30 September 2025

From tragic events to the endless political chatter on social media, it can be hard to know how to navigate this with our teens. We talk about the tension of wanting to protect our kids while also respecting that they’re young adults who see and hear more than we realize.

Transcribed - Published: 23 September 2025

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!

Transcribed - Published: 16 September 2025

This 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. 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 feedback? We want to hear from you! [email protected] or check us out on Instagram! Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 9 September 2025

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 hosting the show (you can't believe all that she has going on) but, believe it or not, we talked Cynthia Yanof (see episode 171) to take over as host of the show. This is going to be fun! 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 feedback? We want to hear from you! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 2 September 2025

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 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 feedback? We want to hear from you! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 27 May 2025

Today 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 feedback? We want to hear from you! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 20 May 2025

Today, 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 listeners. 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! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 13 May 2025

Today 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 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 feedback? We want to hear from you! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2025

NOTE: Today's topic includes some mature content. Today we finish a series on adolescents and sex. Whatever happened to purity rings and "True Love Waits?" What are the best ways to prepare teenagers for possible struggles with sex and dating? Plus, Dr. Ken repeats a previous episode when he reviews the really awkward topic of "how far is too far" when getting physical during dating. f 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 feedback? We want to hear from you! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 29 April 2025

Today 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 The Mouth That Bites You" here: https://a.co/d/hBnlbzI Got questions or feedback? We want to hear from you! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 22 April 2025

Recent 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 may appear to be innocent of any sexual interest. Adolescents need to be prepared for online threats not just protected. We cover all this and more. Dr. Ken references the resource, "Take It Down" to help fight online publishing of explicit photos: https://takeitdown.ncmec.org/ 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 feedback? We want to hear from you! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 15 April 2025

Today 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 or feedback? We want to hear from you! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 8 April 2025

Today 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 book "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" here: https://a.co/d/hBnlbzI Got questions or feedback? We want to hear from you! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 1 April 2025

It'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 about them effectively with your spouse. We also cover the difficult task of dealing with an ex-spouse who has greatly different expectations as well. 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! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 25 March 2025

Today 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 or feedback? We want to hear from you! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 18 March 2025

Today 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 Got questions or feedback? We want to hear from you! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 11 March 2025

Today is the first in a series on limit-setting with adolescents. Probably the most important change a parent can make in being more effective in setting limits with teenagers is to shift your job description from a "cop" to a judge. Understanding what you as a parent can and cannot control makes a huge difference in how and when you set limits for your teen. When your teen is being most defiant, always remember the power of "the smile." 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! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 4 March 2025

This 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 as issues of cursing, school grades, curfew and much more. 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! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 25 February 2025

Many 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 discuss these and other questions on this first of a two part discussion. 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! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 18 February 2025

Does 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 from you! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 11 February 2025

Today 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 book "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" here: https://a.co/d/hBnlbzI Got questions or feedback? We want to hear from you! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 4 February 2025

Today 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" here: https://a.co/d/hBnlbzI Got questions or feedback? We want to hear from you! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 28 January 2025

With 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! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 21 January 2025

Today 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! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 14 January 2025

Now 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 upcoming challenges. We talk about complicating factors like cell phone tracking, setting up doctor appointments and more. 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! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 7 January 2025

Today 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 Abraham and his choice shapes one of the great stories of faith in all of scripture. Knowing the right answer, for believers, can be the key to overcoming fear in parenting. 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! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 17 December 2024

Adolescents 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 book "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" here: https://a.co/d/hBnlbzI Got questions or feedback? We want to hear from you! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 10 December 2024

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 book "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" here: https://a.co/d/hBnlbzI Got questions or feedback? We want to hear from you! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 3 December 2024

With 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.co/d/hBnlbzI Got questions or feedback? We want to hear from you! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 26 November 2024

Grandparents 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 generally babying them? Should grandparents have their own communication line with a teenage grandkid (e.g. texting, DMing etc.)? We answer these and other questions about having the best relationship with your grandchildren even through the teenage years. 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! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 19 November 2024

There 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 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! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 12 November 2024

Today 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 "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" here: https://a.co/d/hBnlbzI Got questions or feedback? We want to hear from you! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 5 November 2024

What 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 want to be their teenagers' constant "go to" relationship through the trials of adolescence? 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! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 29 October 2024

Parents 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! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 22 October 2024

As 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 hear from you! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 15 October 2024

In 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! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 8 October 2024

We'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 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! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 1 October 2024

This 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.co/d/hBnlbzI Got questions or feedback? We want to hear from you! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 24 September 2024

Today 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! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 17 September 2024

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 access while still inviting your teenager into the discussion and maintaining a path to autonomy. You can get "The Anxious Generation" book here: https://a.co/d/gvfk0JY 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! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 10 September 2024

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 and teenagers Today we review how the new book is laid out and the new topics this second edition will cover. Of course, this new edition lays out the basic understanding of transitioning adolescents into full adulthood and all the "how-to's" that parents have relied on since publication of the first book. We're glad to be back and are getting fired up about "Feeding The Mouth That Bites You" second edition! Pre-order the book here: https://a.co/d/77bAlpm Got questions or feedback? We want to hear from you! [email protected] Music provided by the great John David Kent - https://www.johndavidkent.com/

Transcribed - Published: 3 September 2024

We're taking the summer off after our fourth season! Plus... Dr. Ken has a big announcement that will interest all "Feeding The Mouth" parents when we get back. See you in the fall!

Transcribed - Published: 28 May 2024