The Bridge Parents Podcast

S2 E8: The Anxious Generation...Raising Kids in a Digital World

In this episode of the Bridge Parents Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Shelley Groves—educator, professor, and parent—to unpack The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt. We explore how smartphones, social media, and the digital age have reshaped childhood—and what we as parents can do about it. From the rise of anxiety and depression to practical ways to restore balance and resilience in our kids, this conversation is filled with wisdom, laughter, and encouragement. Dr. Groves and Pastor Ryan talk about: 📱 How the smartphone changed everything around 2007 💬 Why social media fuels comparison and anxiety 🧠 The science behind what’s happening to our kids 🙌 Four ways parents can push back and build healthier habits Whether your kids are in grade school, middle school, or college—this episode will help you feel informed, equipped, and encouraged. 🎧 Listen now and join the conversation as we raise the next generation with wisdom, courage, and faith.

S2 E7: Run To Us, Not From Us

Parenting isn’t about if our kids will make mistakes—it’s about when. In this episode of the Bridge Parent Podcast, Pastor Scotty Gibbons joins us alongside his daughter Candice for an honest and encouraging conversation about creating a culture of grace, truth, and trust in our homes. Together, they share personal stories, practical wisdom, and biblical insight on how to respond when kids mess up, helping us learn how to be a safe place our children can run to, not from. Whether it’s broken remotes, bad grades, or bigger life choices, this conversation will equip you to parent with intentionality, cultivate open communication, and point your kids back to Jesus.

S2 E6: Meeting Your Kids Where They Are

In this episode, we're kicking off a brand-new season of the Bridge Parents Podcast with a conversation full of laughter, wisdom, and heart. Pastor Ryan is joined by Pastor Scotty Gibbons—a mentor, father of six, and longtime youth pastor—to talk about one of the most powerful principles in parenting: learning to meet your kids where they are, not where you are. From real-life examples with their own kids to lessons learned in youth ministry, they unpack the value of being emotionally present, slowing down, and parenting with intentionality. Whether you’re raising toddlers, teens, or anything in between, this episode is packed with insight, encouragement, and practical tools to help you build trust, create connection, and lead your kids with wisdom. 🔑 Key Takeaways: - Why being present matters more than being perfect - How to lead from empathy, not just experience - The difference between reacting and responding as a parent - What happens when we really ask God for wisdom in our parenting 🧡 Don’t forget to subscribe and share this episode with another parent who needs a dose of encouragement this week!

S2 E5: 4 Pillars That Transform Family Life

In this episode, Ryan Summers & guest Kevin Moore explore four foundational elements that can reshape and strengthen our family dynamics through a lens of biblical wisdom. Drawing from Proverbs, John, James, and Psalms, we’re reminded that living with integrity, being fully present, listening deeply, and praying fervently are more than good habits—they're holy callings. Join us as we uncover how small, consistent acts of faith at home can become a powerful ministry, bearing fruit for generations to come.

S2 E4: Nurturing Kids Mental Health

In this episode, Doug & Dr. Dina Bowen explore strategies for supporting children's mental health and fostering open communication between parents and kids. They share personal stories, discuss the balance between faith and medicine, and emphasize the importance of being present and engaged. Practical tips include asking open-ended questions, managing screen time, and creating a supportive environment where kids feel heard and valued. From recognizing small achievements to modeling positive behavior, this conversation offers insightful tools for building strong, lasting parent-child relationships in today's fast-paced world.