In this episode, we delve into the journey of sobriety with Chris Janssen, MA, BCC, author of Grace Yourself: How to Show Up for the Sober Life You Want. Chris shares her inspiring story, from recognizing her own drinking problem to the pivotal moment that led her to seek help. She provides valuable insights into understanding addiction, managing family and social dynamics, and the importance of building a supportive community.

Listeners will also gain practical advice on navigating difficult family conversations about alcohol use and preventing substance use in their children. This episode offers empowering strategies for individuals and families striving for a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle. Whether you’re reflecting on your own relationship with alcohol or seeking ways to support loved ones, this conversation delivers inspiration and actionable tips for embracing a sober, balanced life.

Visit us online for access to free resources and book your coaching session with Dr. Meg.

About Chris Janssen

Chris Janssen, MA, BCC, is a bestselling author, award-winning speaker, and board-certified coach with a master’s in counseling psychology. Specializing in high performers, she helps clients achieve sustainable results by combining her expertise in the psychology of success with their skills. Chris trained as a Results Coach with Tony Robbins and has been recognized as one of Brainz Magazine's Global Top 500 Influential Leaders.

Key Moments:

00:00 Introduction to Dry January and Sober Living

00:34 Meet Chris Janssen: Author and Sober Living Advocate

01:08 Recognizing Problem Drinking

02:41 Chris Janssen's Personal Journey

04:24 The Turning Point and Seeking Help

06:05 Understanding Addiction and Recovery

08:53 Navigating Family and Social Dynamics

22:30 Talking to Kids About Drinking

31:42 Preparing Kids for College

33:36 Conclusion and Resources

Our Sponsors:

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Clear hormonal & cystic acne with no side effects with Phyla Biotics. Enter code DRMEEKER at checkout and start your journey to healthier skin.

Build a better you, one brick at a time with Field of Greens. No extracts, no lab-made stuff, just whole, organic fruits and vegetables. Visit fieldofgreens.com and use promo code DRMEG for free rush shipping and 15% off your first order.

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Wild Interest, where the magic happens when kids run the show. Find it wherever you get your podcasts. It’s wild!

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In this episode of Parenting Great Kids with Dr. Meg Meeker, Dr. Meg is joined by Julie Ryan McGue—an award-winning writer, domestic adoptee, and identical twin—to dive deep into the complexities of adoption and identity. Julie opens up about her journey of growing up as an adoptee, the emotional impact of being part of a closed adoption, and her search for birth relatives to uncover critical medical history.

Listeners will gain valuable insights as Julie discusses:

• The emotional and psychological challenges of being part of a closed adoption.
• The importance of open communication between adoptive parents and children.
• How adoptees can navigate their unique struggles with belonging and self-identity.
• The role of support groups in fostering community and understanding.

Julie also shares her perspective on the generational and emotional struggles often tied to adoption, highlighting how openness and honesty can help adopted children cultivate a positive sense of self.

This episode offers invaluable takeaways for adoptive parents, adoptees, and anyone eager to better understand the dynamics of adoption.

Tune in now to hear Julie’s remarkable story and thoughtful advice!

About Our Guest: Julie Ryan McGue

Julie Ryan McGue is an American writer, domestic adoptee, and identical twin. Her award-winning memoir, Twice a Daughter: A Search for Identity, Family, and Belonging, was released in May 2021 and chronicles her journey to uncover her birth relatives. Through her writing, Julie explores the intricate themes of identity, family, and belonging, providing hope and inspiration for adoptees and adoptive families alike.

Key Moments:

00:00 Introduction to Parenting Great Kids

00:26 Guest Introduction: Julie Ryan McHugh

01:03 Early Life and Adoption Experience

02:25 Navigating Identity and Belonging

04:09 Challenges of Closed Adoption

06:38 Support Groups and Shared Experiences

08:43 Complex Family Dynamics

16:31 Cultural Identity and Adoption

21:27 Personal Journey and Health Issues

34:05 Advice for Adoptive Parents

35:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Our Sponsors:

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Hungryroot is your personal shopper and nutritionist combined, making healthy eating easy and stress-free. Get 40% off your first box, plus enjoy a free item in every box for life! Visit Hungryroot.com/drmeg and use code DRMEG to claim this exclusive offer.

Breathe easier, live better with AirDoctor! Head to airdoctorpro.com, use promo code DRMEG, and you’ll receive UP TO $300 off air purifiers!                                     

Clear hormonal & cystic acne with no side effects with Phyla Biotics. Enter code DRMEEKER at checkout and start your journey to healthier skin.

Build a better you, one brick at a time with Field of Greens. No extracts, no lab-made stuff, just whole, organic fruits and vegetables. Visit fieldofgreens.com and use promo code DRMEG for free rush shipping and 15% off your first order.

Start saving and investing for your future with Acorns—visit acorns.com/drmeg or download the app today!

Wild Interest, where the magic happens when kids run the show. Find it wherever you get your podcasts. It’s wild!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Dr. Meg Meeker for a meaningful conversation with Jim Burns, founder of HomeWord, on navigating conversations about sexuality with kids in today’s social media-driven world. They discuss how societal norms and digital influences shape children’s perceptions of sex and share practical strategies for parents to approach sex education with confidence and clarity. From handling awkward moments to addressing topics like pornography and sexual abuse, this episode offers valuable insights to help parents provide value-centered, ongoing guidance in a culture often filled with negative messaging.

Key Moments:

00:00 Introduction to Today's Episode

00:41 Meet Dr. Meg Meeker and Jim Burns

00:58 The Importance of Talking About Sex with Kids

01:24 Challenges Parents Face

03:08 Church and Sexuality

04:13 Cultural Influences on Sexuality

06:38 Effective Communication Strategies

22:49 Addressing Pornography and Its Impact

32:08 Concluding Thoughts and Resources

Need parenting help? Grab a coaching spot with Dr. Meg Meeker!

Featured Guest:

Jim Burns, founder of HomeWord, is a global speaker and author with over 3 million resources published in 20+ languages. His HomeWord with Jim Burns podcast is available on major platforms, focusing on strong marriages, confident parenting, empowered kids, and healthy leadership. Some of his best-known books include Doing Life With Your Adult Children and Confident Parenting. Jim lives in Southern California with his wife, Cathy, their three daughters, three sons-in-law, and four grandchildren.

Our Sponsors:

Stay warm this season with Heat Holders®—from thermal socks to cozy hats, gloves, and layers, they’ve got you covered. Get 15% off at heatholders.com with code “DRMEG” and free shipping on orders over $25!

Hungryroot is your personal shopper and nutritionist combined, making healthy eating easy and stress-free. Get 40% off your first box, plus enjoy a free item in every box for life! Visit Hungryroot.com/drmeg and use code DRMEG to claim this exclusive offer.

Breathe easier, live better with AirDoctor! Head to airdoctorpro.com, use promo code DRMEG, and you’ll receive UP TO $300 off air purifiers!                                     

Clear hormonal & cystic acne with no side effects with Phyla Biotics. Enter code DRMEEKER at checkout and start your journey to healthier skin.

Build a better you, one brick at a time with Field of Greens. No extracts, no lab-made stuff, just whole, organic fruits and vegetables. Visit fieldofgreens.com and use promo code DRMEG for free rush shipping and 15% off your first order.

Start saving and investing for your future with Acorns—visit acorns.com/drmeg or download the app today!

Wild Interest, where the magic happens when kids run the show. Find it wherever you get your podcasts. It’s wild!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mothers often carry an invisible mental load—managing schedules, making decisions, and handling emotional labor for their families. On this episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker offers practical parenting advice to help moms ease that burden and break free from the relentless pressure to "do it all." She’s joined by Dr. Whitney Casares, author, pediatrician and founder of Modern Mommy Doc . Together, they explore why emotional well-being, not productivity, is the key to happier, healthier parenting. The conversation covers actionable strategies for moms to set boundaries, reduce the influence of social media, and let go of guilt. Listeners will learn practical tools to create healthier home environments and embrace a balanced, fulfilling life for themselves and their families.

Key Moments: 

00:00 Introduction to Overachieving Moms

01:43 The Mental Load of Motherhood

05:01 Societal Pressures and Technology

06:02 The Impact of Social Media on Moms

09:38 The Centered Life Blueprint

13:56 Strategies for Managing Stress

17:23 Balancing Personal and Family Needs

22:38 Recognizing and Addressing Emotional Health

39:46 Conclusion and Resources

Need parenting help? Grab a coaching spot with Dr. Meg Meeker!

Featured Guest:

Dr. Whitney Casares, MD, MPH, FAAP, is a board-certified pediatrician, author, CEO and Founder of Modern Mommy Doc, and an American Academy of Pediatrics spokesperson, who has been featured as a maternal child health expert in The New York Times, Forbes, Parents, Fortune, NBC News, ABC News, TODAY, and more.

Our Sponsors:

Stay warm this season with Heat Holders®—from thermal socks to cozy hats, gloves, and layers, they’ve got you covered. Get 15% off at heatholders.com with code “DRMEG” and free shipping on orders over $25!

Hungryroot is your personal shopper and nutritionist combined, making healthy eating easy and stress-free. Get 40% off your first box, plus enjoy a free item in every box for life! Visit Hungryroot.com/drmeg and use code DRMEG to claim this exclusive offer.

Breathe easier, live better with AirDoctor! Head to airdoctorpro.com, use promo code DRMEG, and you’ll receive UP TO $300 off air purifiers!                                     

Clear hormonal & cystic acne with no side effects with Phyla Biotics. Enter code DRMEEKER at checkout and start your journey to healthier skin.

Build a better you, one brick at a time with Field of Greens. No extracts, no lab-made stuff, just whole, organic fruits and vegetables. Visit fieldofgreens.com and use promo code DRMEG for free rush shipping and 15% off your first order.

Start saving and investing for your future with Acorns—visit acorns.com/drmeg or download the app today!

Wild Interest, where the magic happens when kids run the show. Find it wherever you get your podcasts. It’s wild!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Teaching manners to teens might seem old-fashioned, but in today’s complex social landscape, it’s more important than ever. In this episode, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with Brooke Romney, author of 52 Modern Manners for Today's Teens, to explore how modern etiquette can boost teens' confidence, strengthen their relationships, and open doors to new opportunities.

Brooke shares the inspiration behind her bestselling book series and highlights five essential manners every teen should know, from introducing themselves confidently to navigating their online presence mindfully. Packed with practical tips, this episode is a must-listen for parents looking to raise socially savvy and emotionally intelligent kids.

Need parenting help? Grab a coaching spot with Dr. Meg Meeker!

Featured Guest:

Brooke Romney, bestselling author of 52 Modern Manners for Today’s Teens, has transformed the way families approach social skills. Her practical, weekly tips help parents teach kids how to connect meaningfully with others. Follow her on Instagram @brookromneywrites for more parenting wisdom and grab her books to start fostering emotional intelligence at home.

Our Sponsors:

Stay warm this season with Heat Holders®—from thermal socks to cozy hats, gloves, and layers, they’ve got you covered. Get 15% off at heatholders.com with code “DRMEG” and free shipping on orders over $25!

Breathe easier, live better with AirDoctor! Head to airdoctorpro.com, use promo code DRMEG, and you’ll receive UP TO $300 off air purifiers!                                     

Clear hormonal & cystic acne with no side effects with Phyla Biotics. Enter code DRMEEKER at checkout and start your journey to healthier skin.

Build a better you, one brick at a time with Field of Greens. No extracts, no lab-made stuff, just whole, organic fruits and vegetables. Visit fieldofgreens.com and use promo code DRMEG for free rush shipping and 15% off your first order.

Start saving and investing for your future with Acorns—visit acorns.com/drmeg or download the app today!

Wild Interest, where the magic happens when kids run the show. Find it wherever you get your podcasts. It’s wild!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Holiday stress is a challenge many parents, especially mothers, face each year. In this special episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker shares her personal insights to help you navigate the season with peace and joy. Instead of featuring a guest, this episode is all about Dr. Meg’s timeless advice on how to make the holidays meaningful for your family. From managing expectations to fostering deeper connections, you’ll walk away with practical tools to embrace a joyful, stress-free season. 

Need parenting help? Grab a coaching spot with Dr. Meg Meeker! 

Key Moments:

00:50 Understanding Holiday Stress and Fear

01:37 Facing Fears and Managing Expectations

04:27 Tips to De-Stress Your Holidays

04:48 Shifting Expectations for Yourself and Others

08:22 Being Okay with Letting Others Down

11:52 Encouraging Kids to Give

16:43 Setting Boundaries and House Rules

24:03 Taking a Break from Stressful Activities

25:27 The Power of Prayer with Your Kids

31:17 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Our Sponsors:

Stay warm this season with Heat Holders®—from thermal socks to cozy hats, gloves, and layers, they’ve got you covered. Get 15% off at heatholders.com with code “DRMEG” and free shipping on orders over $25!

Breathe easier, live better with AirDoctor! Head to airdoctorpro.com, use promo code DRMEG, and you’ll receive UP TO $300 off air purifiers!                                     

Clear hormonal & cystic acne with no side effects with Phyla Biotics. Enter code DRMEEKER at checkout and start your journey to healthier skin.

Build a better you, one brick at a time with Field of Greens. No extracts, no lab-made stuff, just whole, organic fruits and vegetables. Visit fieldofgreens.com and use promo code DRMEG for free rush shipping and 15% off your first order.

Start saving and investing for your future with Acorns—visit acorns.com/drmeg or download the app today!

Wild Interest, where the magic happens when kids run the show. Find it wherever you get your podcasts. It’s wild!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with former NFL linebacker and college football hall of famer David Pollack to explore his inspiring journey from professional athlete to author of the new book The Won’t Quit Kid. Pollack shares how a career-ending neck injury transformed his life, strengthening his faith and deepening his personal resilience. His story is one of perseverance, growth, and the power of embracing life’s unexpected challenges.

Need parenting help? Grab a coaching spot with Dr. Meg Meeker!

Key Moments:

00:36 David Pollack's Journey: From NFL to Author

01:49 The Impact of a Career-Ending Injury

02:12 Faith and Resilience Through Adversity

03:33 Lessons Learned and Personal Growth

07:02 The Won't Quit Kid: Inspiration Behind the Book

09:31 Coaching and Mentorship: Building Future Leaders

10:47 Balancing Sports and Life: Advice for Parents

15:43 The Importance of Role Models and Mentors

18:02 Navigating Modern Parenting Challenges

20:29 Parental Concerns About Teen Parties

21:28 Transitioning from NFL to Broadcasting

23:20 Lessons from Early Broadcasting Career

25:47 The Won't Quit Kid: Inspiring Resilience in Children

32:42 Prioritizing Family and Faith

38:43 Final Thoughts and Parenting Advice

About Our Guest:

About Our Guest:

David Pollack, former NFL linebacker and College Football Hall of Famer, is known for his remarkable football career and 13 years as a standout analyst on ESPN College GameDay. After overcoming a career-ending neck injury, Pollack shifted his focus to inspiring others through his work with The Pollack Family Foundation, co-hosting the Family Goals podcast, and now as the author of The Won't Quit Kid. His debut children’s book, created in partnership with BRAVE Books, teaches kids the importance of hard work, patience, and resilience—values he exemplifies in his own journey. Pollack lives in Athens, Georgia, with his wife and children.

Our Sponsors:

Stay warm this season with Heat Holders®—from thermal socks to cozy hats, gloves, and layers, they’ve got you covered. Get 15% off at heatholders.com with code “DRMEG” and free shipping on orders over $25!

Breathe easier, live better with AirDoctor! Head to airdoctorpro.com, use promo code DRMEG, and you’ll receive UP TO $300 off air purifiers!                                     

Clear hormonal & cystic acne with no side effects with Phyla Biotics. Enter code DRMEEKER at checkout and start your journey to healthier skin.

Build a better you, one brick at a time with Field of Greens. No extracts, no lab-made stuff, just whole, organic fruits and vegetables. Visit fieldofgreens.com and use promo code DRMEG for free rush shipping and 15% off your first order.

Start saving and investing for your future with Acorns—visit acorns.com/drmeg or download the app today!

Wild Interest, where the magic happens when kids run the show. Find it wherever you get your podcasts. It’s wild!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Parental anxiety can significantly influence a child’s emotional well-being, but there are ways to create a calm, stable home. Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with Dr. John Deloney, a two-time #1 national bestselling author with two PhDs and over 20 years of counseling experience, to discuss how parents can reduce anxiety and foster a healthy environment for their kids. This episode explores how children mirror their parents' emotions and why addressing parental mental health is crucial.

Insights include managing screen time, avoiding the trap of using children’s achievements as validation, and embracing intentional family interactions. Dr. Deloney shares actionable strategies for building strong parent-child connections through attunement, fostering emotional security, and practical steps to reduce household stress. Tune in to learn how to transform your home into a non-anxious space where children can thrive.

Need parenting help? Grab a coaching spot with Dr. Meg Meeker! 

Key Moments:

• 02:03 Understanding and Managing Anxiety
• 02:31 The Role of Calm in Parenting
• 04:35 Effects of External Environment on Anxiety
• 07:52 Practical Tips for Reducing Anxiety
• 10:50 The Impact of Technology on Kids
• 12:37 Parental Influence and Social Pressure
• 16:47 Addressing Anxiety in School-Aged Children
• 19:29 Physical Activities and ADHD
• 22:23 Coaching and Support for Parents
• 23:41 Understanding Attuned Play
• 24:13 The Power of Attunement
• 25:46 Personal Story: Overcoming Emotional Barriers
• 27:46 Children Absorbing Adult Tensions
• 29:08 Signs Parents Need to Address Their Issues
• 32:33 Empowering Children with Autonomy
• 33:48 Handling Hypersensitive and Explosive Children
• 36:43 The Importance of Validation
• 40:34 Navigating Family Dynamics and Political Differences

About Our Guest: 

Dr. John Delony is a two-time #1 national bestselling author, mental health expert, and host of The Dr. John Delony Show. With two PhDs and over 20 years of experience in counseling, crisis response, and higher education, John has become a trusted voice on navigating life's challenges. His latest book, Building a Non-Anxious Life, provides readers with practical tools to create calm, stable environments for themselves and their families.

John is also the author of Own Your Past, Change Your Future and Redefining Anxiety, and his expertise has been featured on Fox News, Fox Business, Today, Real Simple, Fast Company, and HuffPost. Through his work, John helps people make tough decisions, build healthier relationships, and believe in their ability to live well.

Our Sponsors:

Stay warm this season with Heat Holders®—from thermal socks to cozy hats, gloves, and layers, they’ve got you covered. Get 15% off at heatholders.com with code “DRMEG” and free shipping on orders over $25!

Breathe easier, live better with AirDoctor! Head to airdoctorpro.com, use promo code DRMEG, and you’ll receive UP TO $300 off air purifiers!                                     

Clear hormonal & cystic acne with no side effects with Phyla Biotics. Enter code DRMEEKER at checkout and start your journey to healthier skin.

Build a better you, one brick at a time with Field of Greens. No extracts, no lab-made stuff, just whole, organic fruits and vegetables. Visit fieldofgreens.com and use promo code DRMEG for free rush shipping and 15% off your first order.

Start saving and investing for your future with Acorns—visit acorns.com/drmeg or download the app today!

Wild Interest, where the magic happens when kids run the show. Find it wherever you get your podcasts. It’s wild!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bedwetting is a common and often misunderstood issue that many families face, especially with boys. Drawing on her extensive experience as a pediatrician, Dr. Meg Meeker dedicates this solo episode to unpacking the causes, misconceptions, and practical solutions for managing bedwetting. She reassures parents that this is not their child’s fault and highlights the role genetics often play. Dr. Meeker shares actionable tips, such as using mattress covers, addressing underlying health conditions like constipation or infections, and considering tools like bed monitors or medication. She also emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive, blame-free environment to help children navigate embarrassment and build confidence.

Key Moments:

• 00:00 Introduction to Bedwetting
• 00:21 Understanding Bedwetting
• 00:41 Causes and Misconceptions
• 02:01 Practical Solutions for Parents
• 03:11 Medical Considerations
• 05:20 Addressing Constipation
• 08:16 Medication and Bed Monitors
• 11:45 Final Tips and Encouragement

Need parenting help? Grab a coaching spot with Dr. Meg Meeker! Watch today’s episode 📺 and follow us 📲

Our Sponsors:

Stay warm this season with Heat Holders®—from thermal socks to cozy hats, gloves, and layers, they’ve got you covered. Get 15% off at heatholders.com with code “DRMEG” and free shipping on orders over $25!

Breathe easier, live better with AirDoctor! Head to airdoctorpro.com, use promo code DRMEG, and you’ll receive UP TO $300 off air purifiers!                                     

Clear hormonal & cystic acne with no side effects with Phyla Biotics. Enter code DRMEEKER at checkout and start your journey to healthier skin.

Build a better you, one brick at a time with Field of Greens. No extracts, no lab-made stuff, just whole, organic fruits and vegetables. Visit fieldofgreens.com and use promo code DRMEG for free rush shipping and 15% off your first order.

Wild Interest, where the magic happens when kids run the show. Find it wherever you get your podcasts. It’s wild!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Navigating the often turbulent waters of raising teenagers can feel like a never-ending cycle of setting boundaries while trying to maintain trust. As parents, we frequently find ourselves at a crossroads, unsure of which direction to take. It's comforting to know that we're not alone in this journey. In this episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker welcomes Sean Donohue, a renowned parenting coach widely known for his relatable advice on platforms like TikTok. Sean shares his personal journey from a disconnected teenager to a dedicated father, guided in part by Dr. Meeker’s book, Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters. Together, they explore the complex dynamics of raising teenagers, emphasizing the power of connection, love, and resilience in parenting.

Throughout their conversation, Dr. Meeker and Sean discuss the impact of divorce, how to foster emotional availability, and the unique challenges fathers face today. Sean’s insights underscore the value of validating teenagers' experiences and creating a supportive, empathetic home environment. This episode offers listeners practical advice on building trust, connecting with teens, and balancing the roles of strength and empathy as parents.

Episode Highlights:  

00:27 Meet Sean Donohue: Parenting Coach  

02:13 Sean’s Personal Journey  

04:07 Challenges of Parenting and Personal Growth  

06:26 The Importance of Connection  

10:29 Reflections on Divorce and Stepfamily Dynamics  

15:24 The Role of Love in Parenting  

20:01 Understanding Teenagers  

25:59 Facing the Challenges of Parenting Teenagers  

26:48 The Importance of Emotional Connection  

35:35 Encouraging Positive Communication Between Parents  

40:14 Balancing Strength and Empathy in Fatherhood  

44:16 Conclusion and Resources for Parents  

Need parenting help? Grab a coaching spot with Dr. Meg Meeker! Watch today’s episode 📺 and follow us 📲

Our Guest:

Sean Donohue is a globally known Family Coach, founder of ParentingModernTeens.com, and host of The Sean Donohue Show Podcast. A viral social media sensation, Sean’s videos and teachings have reached tens of millions, offering invaluable insights that help parents transform their approach to parenting, build strong, healthy homes, and raise incredible adults. Through his compassionate and relatable style, Sean has made a lasting impact on families across the globe. Connect with Sean and explore his resources at SaveMyFamily.us.

Our Sponsors:

1XL:

Support your child’s learning journey with IXL’s interactive lessons in math, language arts, science, and social studies—get 20% off at IXL.com/DRMEG!

Heat Holders:

Stay warm this season with Heat Holders®—from thermal socks to cozy hats, gloves, and layers, they’ve got you covered. Get 15% off at heatholders.com with code “DRMEG” and free shipping on orders over $25!

Air Doctor:                                              

Breathe Easier, Live Better With AirDoctor! Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code DRMEG, and you’ll receive UP TO $300 off air purifiers! 

Phyla Biotics:                                              

Visit phylabiotics.com, enter code DRMEEKER at checkout, and start your journey to healthier skin.

Field of Greens: 

Whole, organic fruits and vegetables. No extracts, no lab-made stuff. Just one scoop a day gives you simple, real nutrition. Visit fieldofgreens.com and use promo code DRMEG for 15% off your first order and FREE rush shipping.

Wild Interest:                                            

Where the magic happens when kids run the show. Wild Interest: find it wherever you get your podcasts. It’s wild!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker welcomes David Gudgel, Director of Church Health for the Northern California Venture Church Network. David shares his wisdom on harmonizing faith and family life, drawing from his personal journey as both a parent and grandparent. He recounts transformative moments, like the spiritual awakening his parents experienced, which reshaped their family dynamics and instilled values of patience and resilience. David offers parents practical advice on guiding their children’s spiritual paths while honoring individuality, highlighting how a foundation of faith can foster stronger relationships within the family.

The conversation also explores challenges of modern parenting, particularly managing screen time and the role of digital devices, which David believes should be viewed as privileges rather than entitlements. Additionally, he addresses the evolving role of grandparents, advising them to support their children’s parenting choices without overstepping boundaries. Through stories and insights from his books, David empowers families to navigate the complexities of today’s parenting landscape while fostering a spiritually grounded, balanced home environment. 

Key Moments:

00:21 Balancing Personal and Family Responsibilities

00:50 The Power of Prayer in Parenting

01:37 Spiritual Epiphany and Family Transformation

08:01 Maintaining Faith in Adult Children

16:38 Navigating Digital Devices with Kids

23:20 Challenges and Joys of Grandparenting

29:28 David Ray Gudgel's Books and Final Thoughts

Need parenting advice? Grab one of Dr. Meg's coaching spots here.

Watch today’s episode 📺

Follow us 📲

Our Guest:

David Gudgel serves as the Director of Church Health for the Venture Church Network, bringing over 40 years of pastoral experience from his leadership roles in churches across Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Phoenix. An accomplished author and speaker, David has shared his insights at numerous events and seminars through Walk Thru the Bible Ministries. His books, including Before You Leave Home, Before You Get Engaged, and Enjoy Your Marriage More, offer practical, faith-centered guidance for major life transitions. David and his wife, Bernice, are parents to three children and proud grandparents of 11.

Our Sponsors:

1XL:

Support your child’s learning journey with IXL’s interactive lessons in math, language arts, science, and social studies—get 20% off at IXL.com/DRMEG!

Heat Holders:

Stay warm this season with Heat Holders®—from thermal socks to cozy hats, gloves, and layers, they’ve got you covered. Get 15% off at heatholders.com with code “DRMEG” and free shipping on orders over $25!

Air Doctor:                                              

Breathe Easier, Live Better With AirDoctor! Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code DRMEG, and you’ll receive UP TO $300 off air purifiers! 

Phyla Biotics:                                              

Visit phylabiotics.com, enter code DRMEEKER at checkout, and start your journey to healthier skin.

Field of Greens: 

Whole, organic fruits and vegetables. No extracts, no lab-made stuff. Just one scoop a day gives you simple, real nutrition. Visit fieldofgreens.com and use promo code DRMEG for 15% off your first order and FREE rush shipping.

Wild Interest:                                            

Where the magic happens when kids run the show. Wild Interest: find it wherever you get your podcasts. It’s wild!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices