"Send Ben a text" AI is everywhere—your teen’s phone, their schoolwork, even their social life. But is it helping them grow... or making things harder? In this episode, Ben and Cortni dive into how artificial intelligence is shaping the way teens think, learn, and connect—and what that means for you as a parent. Is AI your parenting ally or your biggest challenge yet? 🎧 Tune in to learn: The surprising ways teens are already using AI (for better or worse) Why AI isn't the real problem—and what ...
Jun 26, 2025•37 min•Ep. 264
"Send Ben a text" When Howie came home early from his mission, he felt lost, embarrassed, and stuck in a victim mindset. But everything started to shift after just one coaching call. In this episode, Howie shares his powerful story of learning to own his choices, escape the shame spiral, and take back control of his life. Whether you're a parent of a teen who's struggling—or a young adult trying to figure life out—this episode will help you see how much can change when you stop playing the victi...
Jun 19, 2025•38 min•Ep. 263
"Send Ben a text" Are you tired of trying to fix your teen—or anyone else in your life? In this episode, Ben Pugh and fellow coach Marika Humphreys share a powerful truth: real transformation doesn’t happen “out there.” It starts inside YOU. Through real stories and personal examples, they explore why peace, confidence, and clarity come when you stop managing others and start becoming the parent, partner, or person you want to be. Whether you're parenting a teen, caring for a loved one, or simpl...
Jun 12, 2025•54 min•Ep. 262
"Send Ben a text" Should we ban AI in schools, or teach our teens how to use it? In this episode, I share why banning AI is short-sighted and how you can help your teen use it responsibly, ethically, and safely. 🎧 You’ll Learn: Why banning AI hurts more than it helps How AI is like the modern calculator 3 ways to help your teen use AI wisely What AI means for your teen’s future job 👨👩👧👦 Be the guide, not the gatekeeper. Let’s talk about raising confident, tech-savvy teens. 🔗 Book a free...
Jun 05, 2025•35 min•Ep. 261
"Send Ben a text" Do you ever say things like, “I don’t have time,” or “I’m too tired”? These sound like good reasons… but they might just be excuses. In this episode, I talk about how we lie to ourselves with “good reasons” and how that keeps us stuck. I share a real story about a teen who came home early from a mission and felt like he had to explain why. You’ll learn how to stop making excuses, take control, and show your teen how to do the same. We’ll also talk about how to: Spot your own “g...
May 29, 2025•25 min•Ep. 260
"Send Ben a text" Do you ever feel stuck, like life is just happening to you? In this episode, we talk about the victim mindset—what it is, how to spot it, and how to break free from it. You’ll learn simple ways to take control of your thoughts, shift your mindset, and be the kind of parent your teen needs. We share real stories, helpful tips, and easy tools you can start using today. If you’re tired of blaming, complaining, or feeling stuck, this episode will help you feel more powerful and mor...
May 22, 2025•31 min•Ep. 259
"Send Ben a text" Do you feel like your teen is out of control? Are they angry, acting out, or even kicked out of school? In this episode, I answer a message from a listener named Jodi. She’s a therapist who is worried about her niece’s 13-year-old son. He has ADHD and ODD and was just expelled from school. Now the family is thinking about sending him to a troubled youth camp. I’ve been there. I got suspended from school as a teen — and it didn’t ruin my life. I share my story and give you tools...
May 15, 2025•45 min•Ep. 258
"Send Ben a text" This special Mother’s Day episode is all about giving yourself a gift that matters: self-love . Many moms feel guilty and think they’re not doing enough. But what if the best gift this year is kindness to yourself ? Ben talks about how to stop the negative self-talk , how to feel better about being a mom, and how to show yourself the unconditional love you deserve. You’ll also hear a fun, simple idea for a Mother’s Day gift that means more than flowers. If you’re a mom who want...
May 08, 2025•28 min•Ep. 257
"Send Ben a text" Why are we so addicted to being anxious? In this episode, Ben and Cortni dive deep into how anxiety has become a crutch for so many of us. They talk about why we let worry take over our lives and how to stop it from controlling us. You’ll learn about secondary gain —the hidden way anxiety gives us a "benefit"—and why it keeps us stuck. Ben shares personal stories about tough love, coaching, and how embracing discomfort can help us grow stronger. Cortni gives tips on parenting a...
May 01, 2025•26 min•Ep. 256
"Send Ben a text" Does it feel like your teen wants nothing to do with you? The truth is, they don’t hate you—they actually want to connect with you, even if they don’t show it! In this episode, we dive into why teens act distant, how parents can misread their behavior, and the simple changes you can make to build a stronger bond. We’ll talk about how your beliefs about your teen might be affecting your relationship and why connecting through shared values is so important. You’ll also hear real-...
Apr 24, 2025•24 min•Ep. 255
"Send Ben a text" Do you have a teen who wants to do things their own way? You’re not alone! In this episode, Ben and Cortni talk about what to do when your teen becomes more independent and starts making choices you don’t always agree with. You’ll learn: How to set healthy rules and boundaries Why it’s okay for your teen to have different values than you Ways to stay calm and loving, even during tough times How to connect with your teen, even if they push back Ben shares real stories, fun momen...
Apr 17, 2025•29 min•Ep. 254
"Send Ben a text" Help! My teen made a big mistake! What now? In this episode, I’m answering a heartfelt question from a parent who feels stuck after their teen made a big mess of things. If you’ve ever worried that your family is falling apart, this one’s for you. We’ll talk about how to handle tough teen choices, what to do when parenting feels hopeless, and how YOU can lead your family toward growth and healing. Mistakes don’t have to be the end of the story—they can be the start of something...
Apr 10, 2025•31 min•Ep. 253
"Send Ben a text" In this episode, we talk about 5 common challenges teens face and how to help them overcome these struggles. From trying to fit in to dealing with distractions, we share simple tips and solutions that can make a big difference. You’ll learn how to: Help teens focus on what matters most. Build discipline instead of chasing motivation. Overcome excuses and take action. Parents, this episode will help you connect with your teen and support them in becoming their best selves. Teens...
Apr 03, 2025•31 min•Ep. 252
"Send Ben a text" Is your teen struggling to stay motivated? You’re not alone! In this episode, we explore how to unlock your teen’s hidden motivation. 🎙️ Learn why their motivation is outside your control, how your own thoughts and actions can inspire them, and practical tips to help them find their drive. We’ll also dive into using positive incentives, understanding their values, and letting them learn from natural consequences. Plus, we’ll share fun stories, simple advice, and ideas to make ...
Mar 27, 2025•24 min•Ep. 251
"Send Ben a text" Helping your teen feel more confident can be tough, but it’s not impossible! In this episode, we talk about simple ways to boost teen confidence . We’ll share three common mistakes parents make that can hurt their teen's confidence—like fixing their problems, comparing them to others, or trying to control their decisions. Then, we’ll give you tips on how to empower your teen, believe in them, and help them build confidence on their own. Whether your teen struggles with school, ...
Mar 20, 2025•26 min•Ep. 250
"Send Ben a text" How do you know if your teen needs coaching? What if it’s actually YOU that could benefit the most? In this episode, Ben and Cortni dive into how to tell who in your family might need extra support and why starting with yourself can make the biggest difference. We’ll talk about: Signs your teen might need coaching. Why coaching only works when it’s wanted. How your own growth can inspire your family. Parenting on the same team vs. the same page. Ben also shares tips on setting ...
Mar 13, 2025•30 min
"Send Ben a text" Does it feel like your teen doesn’t want you around? In this episode, Ben Pugh reveals a surprising truth: your teen actually wants more connection with you! Even when they push you away or say hurtful things, they’re secretly craving your love and attention. Ben explains why teens act this way, how it’s tied to their development, and what you can do to build a stronger relationship. Say goodbye to the myth that teens hate their parents and learn simple ways to reconnect today....
Mar 06, 2025•13 min•Ep. 248
"Send Ben a text" In this episode, I’m sharing three decisions that completely changed the way I parent. These simple choices helped me build a stronger relationship with my teen, let go of stress, and become the parent I’ve always wanted to be. You’ll hear about: The #1 book that changed my perspective on parenting. Why letting go of control can actually help your teen. How creating a parenting identity makes parenting easier. Parenting doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Tune in to learn how th...
Feb 27, 2025•23 min•Ep. 247
"Send Ben a text" Are you trying to empower your teen but feel like you’re losing control as a parent? In this episode, Ben Pugh and co-host Cortni talk about how to empower your teen effectively while keeping your own power. We’ll share simple tips and real-life examples to help you: Ask the right questions without overthinking. Handle “I don’t know” and “I don’t care” responses. Let your teen make decisions and learn from their mistakes. Stay confident as a parent and model the behavior you wa...
Feb 20, 2025•31 min•Ep. 246
"Send Ben a text" In this episode, we’ll teach you how to create a 10-word vision statement to guide your parenting! A vision statement helps you stay focused on being the parent you want to be, even during tough times. Join Ben and his co-host, Cortni, as they break down the simple steps to create your vision statement. You’ll learn how to reflect on your values, question your parenting identity, and build stronger connections with your teen. Ben and Cortni also share real-life stories, tips, a...
Feb 13, 2025•29 min•Ep. 245
"Send Ben a text" Are you the parent you’ve always wanted to be? In this episode, Cortni and I talk about how to create a clear vision for better parenting. We share personal stories, lessons from our own childhoods, and tips to help you reconnect with your parenting goals. Learn about the power of a 10-word vision statement—a simple tool that can guide your parenting, help you avoid common struggles, and strengthen your connection with your kids. Whether you want more structure, better communic...
Feb 06, 2025•12 min•Ep. 244
"Send Ben a text" Do you sometimes feel stressed about things you can't change as a parent? In this episode, Ben Pugh and Cortni talk about how to feel better by focusing on the things you can actually do something about. They share simple tips and real stories from other parents who learned to worry less. You'll hear about parents just like you who found ways to have better relationships with their teens. Ben and Cortni explain how letting go of things you can't control can make parenting feel ...
Jan 30, 2025•30 min•Ep. 243
"Send Ben a text" In this episode, we explore how shifting your perspective can transform your parenting experience. Using a real-life example from a high school basketball game, I dive into the difference between perception and perspective—and how both affect the way we see and interpret our teen’s behavior. Learn how emotional attachments, biases, and desired outcomes shape what we see and how we respond. I’ll share simple strategies to question your perception, model empathy, and strengthen y...
Jan 23, 2025•22 min•Ep. 242
"Send Ben a text" In this episode, Ben discusses the critical role parents play in teaching responsibility to their teenagers through personal example. He explores the contrast between victim and hero mindsets, explains why many parents struggle with expecting more responsibility from their teens than they demonstrate themselves, and provides practical strategies for creating a culture of accountability at home. Learn how to break free from the blame game and empower your teens by modeling the r...
Jan 16, 2025•20 min•Ep. 241
"Send Ben a text" In this episode, Ben talks with Marci Owen about how our minds get programmed and how we can change that programming. Here are the key points they discuss: Main Topics: How past experiences shape how we think about ourselves Why it's important to notice patterns in how we act and think Ways to change unhelpful beliefs about ourselves The power of being kind to ourselves when we make mistakes Key Stories and Examples: Marci shares her story about struggling with math and how it ...
Jan 09, 2025•49 min•Ep. 240
"Send Ben a text" Join me for an insightful conversation with Marci, an advanced certified trauma-informed life coach who specializes in helping Christian moms cultivate self-love and confidence. In this powerful episode, we explore how early life experiences shape our behaviors and discuss practical strategies for personal growth. We'll dive into: • Why self-love isn't selfish - it's essential for effective parenting • How subconscious patterns affect our daily lives and relationships • The imp...
Jan 02, 2025•35 min•Ep. 239
"Send Ben a text" As we get close to the end of 2024, it's time to think about our lives and ask ourselves: are we stopping ourselves from being the best we can be? In this episode, we talk about how our goals and dreams are all connected, and how the choices we make in one part of life can change other parts too. We'll talk about: • Seeing the places in your life where you might be holding yourself back • How goals and dreams that seem different are actually connected • The power of being the p...
Dec 25, 2024•19 min•Ep. 238
"Send Ben a text" Are you tired of complicated parenting advice that leaves you feeling overwhelmed? In this eye-opening episode, we explore how to simplify your approach to parenting teens by focusing on two essential elements: connection and empowerment. Despite being more "connected" through social media than ever before, many teens feel deeply lonely and disconnected from their parents. Learn why trying to control everything in your teen's life might be pushing them away, and discover simple...
Dec 19, 2024•24 min•Ep. 237
"Send Ben a text" In this episode, we dive into the four key principles of effective parenting that can help you navigate the challenges of communicating with your teen. We explore detaching from your teen's outcomes, opening communication, being willing to roll with the punches, and letting your teen be responsible for their own consequences. Learn how to create a safe space for your teen to discuss their actions, set clear boundaries, and empower them to make better choices. Tune in for practi...
Dec 12, 2024•28 min•Ep. 236
"Send Ben a text" In this episode, we talk about a tough problem many parents face: when a teen refuses to go to school. We look at a question from a mom in a parenting Facebook group. She shares her struggle with her 15-year-old son, who won't go to school and gets angry when she takes away his phone. As parents, it's easy to feel like we can't do anything in these situations. But the key is to focus on what we can control, not on trying to change our teens. We talk about using a "T-Chart of Co...
Dec 05, 2024•24 min•Ep. 235
