Up To It Parenting

Jamal and Zion
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Parenting
  • Updated Semiweekly

Welcome to "Up To It Parenting," where we help youth, adults, and organizations connect deeply, communicate effectively, and thrive together. This father and son podcast tackles the tough topics that some parents shy away from. Join hosts Jamal and Zion as they explore everything under the sun, from young men's mental health to engaging in healthy relationships and embracing your true authentic self. As a father and son team, Jamal and Zion bring a unique perspective to the podcast, offering insights from both a parental and adolescent point of view. Through their candid and open conversations, they aim to provide a safe and informative space for listeners to learn and grow together. Whether you're a parent looking to connect with your son, a single mother or caregiver in need of support, or a young man trying to find your place in the world, "Up To It Parenting" has something for everyone. Tune in each week as Jamal and Zion take on the taboo topics and help listeners become more informed, productive, and confident members of society.BOOK US NOW https://uptoit.club/Connect with us-  https://linktr.ee/uptoitpodcast

  1. May 22

    AI Won’t Replace Your Parenting But It Will Test It

    Send us Fan Mail AI is showing up in places most of us didn’t expect, and not just as a “cool new feature.” It’s answering phone calls, writing school assignments, shaping what we see online, and powering content that looks real even when it’s completely fake. That speed is exactly why we wanted a real conversation about what artificial intelligence means for youth, families, and the future our kids are walking into.  We get into the practical side of AI parenting and digital safety: where AI tools are already embedded (Gemini, Copilot, ChatGPT, Canva), why paywalls can create a new digital divide, and why “AI hallucinations” make media literacy and critical thinking more important, not less. We also talk about the darker edge of this moment, including deepfakes and sextortion, and how predators can use a simple profile photo to create harmful content and attempt blackmail. It’s uncomfortable, but avoiding the topic doesn’t protect our kids.  We also zoom out to the human side. AI talks back, agrees, and flatters, which can pull young people away from the real world practice they need to build confidence, social skills, and healthy relationships. We share the kind of family stance we’re trying to model: use AI as a resource, not a lifeline, and keep human connection at the center with clear boundaries around devices and screen time.  If you’re a parent, caregiver, educator, or just trying to keep up, listen through and then join the conversation. Subscribe, share this with another parent, and leave a review so more families can find it. What’s your current relationship with AI: helpful tool or growing threat? TEXT US (904)-867-4466 but before you send your text in the beginning of your text include the numbers 2141639. We look forward to hearing from you!! We are so appreciative of you listening we want you to be part of the Up To It movement! https://uptoit.club/ Download the Brightn Wellness App FUTURE podcaster!! here is our link to get started hosting your own online show! https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5554652120350720

    56 min

  2. Feb 24

    We Share Why Parent Involvement Faded And How We Plan To Bring It Back

    Send us Fan Mail A beach wedding, twin boys on the way, and a bold pivot in our work set the stage for a bigger question: where did parent engagement go—and how do we bring it back? We open up about family milestones that sharpened our focus, then share why we’ve partnered with Vive18 to house our youth and mental health programming while we double down here on practical, adult-centered parenting education. From packed family groups years ago to sparsely attended nights now, we trace how attendance slipped before COVID and worsened after. We name the real barriers—time, childcare, transportation, dinner hour—and explore why lectures don’t cut it anymore. Parents show up for what feels urgent, social, and useful; so we lay out formats that respect busy lives: shorter sessions, on-site childcare, hybrid options, and interactive teaching that turns research into steps you can try tomorrow. We also make space for what screens can’t deliver: genuine community, where a quick hallway chat turns into a new tactic, and a shared laugh makes hard topics easier to face. We talk adolescence as the true crunch time for parent involvement, even as attendance drops in middle and high school. Sports crowds prove parents will prioritize what matters; the fix is to make parent nights feel just as meaningful. That means co-creating agendas with families, inviting honest feedback, and following up with concise recaps and resources. With Vive18’s national network and our on-the-ground experience, we’re ready to bring credible speakers, fresh ideas, and formats that make connection the point, not the afterthought. Tell us what keeps you away and what would bring you back. Text 904-867-4466 or email zion@uptoit.club with one barrier and one proposed fix. If this conversation resonates, subscribe, share the episode with a parent friend, and leave a review to help more families find their people. TEXT US (904)-867-4466 but before you send your text in the beginning of your text include the numbers 2141639. We look forward to hearing from you!! We are so appreciative of you listening we want you to be part of the Up To It movement! https://uptoit.club/ Download the Brightn Wellness App FUTURE podcaster!! here is our link to get started hosting your own online show! https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5554652120350720

    32 min

  3. 07/09/2025

    When you heal yourself, you heal your family

    Send us Fan Mail What if your greatest pain became your pathway to purpose? Meet Sabrina Duarte, a single mother of two from Tucson who discovered healing lies not in escaping generational wounds, but in confronting them with divine grace. Fifteen years after losing her father to pancreatic cancer, Sabrina reveals how watching her strong, muscular dad deteriorate in just months transformed her entire outlook. "It really showed me how life is precious and how we sometimes take it for granted," she shares with raw vulnerability. This profound loss sparked an unexpected mission—using social media to remind others about life's fragility and the importance of cherishing every moment with loved ones. But Sabrina's story goes far deeper than inspirational posts. Growing up with a strained maternal relationship left her feeling perpetually unworthy, creating patterns of self-sabotage that followed her into adulthood. Through powerful prayer and what she describes as divine visions, Sabrina uncovered the generational curse binding her family—her mother couldn't give what she never received herself. This revelation led to a transformative conversation with her mother, bringing healing to wounds decades old. During the pandemic, financial struggles and depression tested Sabrina's newfound faith. As child support ended right after purchasing a home, she found herself sobbing at her university job desk, wondering how she'd support her children alone. Yet through consistent prayer journaling and surrendering to God's guidance, everything began to shift. "Once I truly leaned on Him, everything changed," she reflects, now passionate about helping others identify and heal from their own generational patterns. Sabrina challenges traditional perceptions of faith, emphasizing accessibility over perfection: "There's no such thing as a perfect Christian. When you go to church, it's a church full of sinners—that's what we all are." Her story reminds us that healing never happens in isolation; when we heal ourselves, we create ripples that transform our families for generations to come. Ready to discover your own divine purpose through life's challenges? Subscribe now and join our community of parents breaking generational cycles through tough conversations that create stronger connections. TEXT US (904)-867-4466 but before you send your text in the beginning of your text include the numbers 2141639. We look forward to hearing from you!! We are so appreciative of you listening we want you to be part of the Up To It movement! https://uptoit.club/ Download the Brightn Wellness App FUTURE podcaster!! here is our link to get started hosting your own online show! https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5554652120350720

    42 min

  4. 07/02/2025

    Learning how to learn is the most valuable investment you can make in yourself

    Send us Fan Mail Sai Vasam joins us to discuss his powerful approach to personal development through what he calls "self-investment"—a framework that helps people move beyond information consumption to meaningful transformation. He introduces a revolutionary way to think about personal growth investments through his four-category framework of one-to-many, one-to-zero, one-to-few, and one-to-one resources. • Author, educator and coach on a mission to help youth and young adults become self-investors • Self-investment differs from self-help by focusing on investing in others to help yourself grow • Most people overinvest in one-to-many resources (books, podcasts) and one-to-zero activities (journaling, solo work) • Greatest personal growth comes from one-to-few (small groups, communities) and one-to-one (coaching) investments • Many people get stuck in vicious cycles of consuming self-help without addressing root issues • When investing in yourself, focus on WHO you're learning from rather than just the offer • COVID lockdown sparked Sai's transformation from math teacher to journaling enthusiast to author • Youth are constantly bombarded with stimulation and struggle with genuine connection • Taking calculated risks and occasionally going against family expectations can be necessary for growth • Sai's book "Self-Investor" serves as "the first book to read on your personal growth journey" Find Sai's book "Self-Investor"-https://www.amazon.com/Self-Investor-First-Personal-Growth-Journey/dp/B0F6185QK1/ Connect with Sai on LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/in/sai-vasam/ Book a coaching call with Sai visit his website-https://www.saivasam.com/ TEXT US (904)-867-4466 but before you send your text in the beginning of your text include the numbers 2141639. We look forward to hearing from you!! We are so appreciative of you listening we want you to be part of the Up To It movement! https://uptoit.club/ Download the Brightn Wellness App FUTURE podcaster!! here is our link to get started hosting your own online show! https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5554652120350720

    41 min

  5. 06/25/2025

    Who's Actually Listening to Your Teen?

    Send us Fan Mail Imagine a space between parenting and professional therapy—a "thriving zone" where young people can speak freely, build confidence, and learn to navigate life's complexities with guidance from someone who's been there. That's precisely what Chris Coulter has created with MentorWell, and his journey to founding this innovative mentorship program is as powerful as the impact it's having on youth worldwide. Chris joins us from Toronto to share how personal tragedy became the catalyst for his mission. After losing his 14-year-old daughter to suicide in 2015 and weathering both business failure and divorce, Chris turned his grief into purpose. "For the first five years, I could barely do anything," he reveals, describing the fog of grief that eventually lifted and allowed him to recognize a critical gap in youth support services. What makes MentorWell unique is its approach to emotional intelligence and resilience. Chris introduces us to the concept of "measuring backwards"—teaching youth to acknowledge how far they've come rather than focusing solely on distant goals. By capturing daily wins, no matter how small, young people develop confidence and momentum. "It's just about moving forward a little bit and building momentum, but capturing it and celebrating it," Chris explains. The program creates a confidential space where youth can speak openly without fear of judgment or immediate problem-solving—something many parents struggle to provide despite their best intentions. "So many parents go, 'Oh, I'm a mentor for my kid,' and I go, 'No, you're not. Your kid tells you what you want to hear,'" Chris notes with characteristic candor. Whether you're a parent concerned about your child's emotional wellbeing, an educator looking for additional resources, or someone passionate about youth development, this conversation offers fresh perspectives on mentorship's power to transform lives. Visit TheMentorWell.com to learn more about this growing global initiative that's building bridges between generations and giving youth the guidance they need to thrive. Check out their website https://www.thementorwell.com/ TEXT US (904)-867-4466 but before you send your text in the beginning of your text include the numbers 2141639. We look forward to hearing from you!! We are so appreciative of you listening we want you to be part of the Up To It movement! https://uptoit.club/ Download the Brightn Wellness App FUTURE podcaster!! here is our link to get started hosting your own online show! https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5554652120350720

    49 min

  6. 06/06/2025

    Porn, Parenting, and Honest Conversations

    Send us Fan Mail What happens when a youth mentality expert admits he struggled with pornography from age 11? Even harder - what happens when his father hears this revelation for the first time? The uncomfortable truth is that many young people turn to pornography not just for stimulation but for education. With parents often avoiding frank discussions about sexuality, curious adolescents seek information elsewhere, often landing on content that distorts their understanding of healthy relationships. In this remarkably candid episode, we navigate the distinction between addiction and obsession as we examine my initial self-diagnosis. My father gently challenges the addiction label, noting that true addiction severely disrupts daily functioning in ways my experience didn't reflect. This conversation reveals how even mental health advocates can misunderstand their own experiences. We explore the digital landscape where today's youth encounter pornography - not just through explicit websites but via mainstream social media platforms like Twitter and Reddit. Many parents remain unaware that these everyday apps serve as gateways to content that shapes how young people view sexuality and relationships. Perhaps most poignantly, we discuss the weight of shame that prevented me from sharing this struggle for over a decade, despite our otherwise close relationship. My father's reflection on learning about this hidden aspect of my adolescence offers valuable perspective for parents wondering what their children might be concealing. This episode provides actionable guidance for families navigating these waters: establish open dialogue about sexuality, recognize when professional help might be needed, and utilize resources like the Brighton mental wellness app to facilitate difficult conversations. Ready for an honest conversation about one of parenting's most uncomfortable topics? Text us your thoughts or questions at 904-867-4466 and join our journey toward healthier, more open family communication. TEXT US (904)-867-4466 but before you send your text in the beginning of your text include the numbers 2141639. We look forward to hearing from you!! We are so appreciative of you listening we want you to be part of the Up To It movement! https://uptoit.club/ Download the Brightn Wellness App FUTURE podcaster!! here is our link to get started hosting your own online show! https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5554652120350720

    37 min

  7. 06/03/2025

    Breaking the Chain: Pornography Addiction and How to Heal

    Send us Fan Mail Ever wondered how something that seems harmless could rewire your entire view of people? Zion opens the door to a rarely discussed topic that affects countless lives: pornography addiction and the objectification of women. With remarkable vulnerability, Zion shares his personal battle with pornography addiction that spanned more than a decade, starting in fifth grade. He walks us through how what began as curiosity transformed into a coping mechanism for stress, boredom, and overwhelming emotions. This isn't just a confession – it's a roadmap for understanding how digital content consumption shapes our perception of others and ourselves. Drawing from Eagles wide receiver AJ Brown's powerful statements, Zion examines how pornography "desensitizes your brain" until you're seeing objects instead of human beings. He explores concerning cultural trends like referring to women as "ball" and challenges listeners to recognize how language reflects deeper attitudes about humanity and worth. What makes this conversation especially valuable is Zion's focus on recovery and alternatives. From his partnership with the Brightn journaling app to finding comfort in physical exercise, reading, and authentic relationships, he offers practical pathways forward. The broadcast channel community he's built further demonstrates his commitment to vulnerability and mutual support. Whether you're struggling with similar issues, supporting someone who is, or simply want to understand these dynamics better, this episode provides compassionate insight without judgment. Remember Zion's powerful reminder: "You're not navigating this life alone" – and reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. We are so appreciative of you listening we want you to be part of the Up To It movement! https://uptoit.club/ Download the Brightn Wellness App FUTURE podcaster!! here is our link to get started hosting your own online show! https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5554652120350720

    40 min

  8. 05/20/2025

    From Athlete to Artist: One Man's Journey of Redemption

    Send us Fan Mail What happens when the thing you've built your identity around becomes the source of your deepest pain? For SELYM, basketball was more than just a sport—it was his projected future. The explosive young athlete they called "Lil Westbrook" seemed destined for greatness on the court, touching rims in fifth grade and outplaying kids years older. But beneath the athletic prowess, a storm was brewing. During his time at Phoenix College and later Langston University,  SELYM found himself spiraling into depression, caught in toxic relationships, and struggling with abandonment issues. The breaking point came when heartbreak drove him to contemplate ending his life. "I didn't even feel like I was good enough anymore for anybody," he reveals with raw honesty. Salvation came in an unexpected form. In his senior year, SELYM recorded a song simply as emotional therapy—never intending to release it. When friends heard it and insisted he share it, something remarkable happened. The track went viral around campus, leading to a performance opportunity that awakened something dormant within him. Music became more than art; it became ministry. Today, SELYM creates Christian hip-hop that speaks directly to mental health struggles, heartbreak, and finding identity in faith rather than others' expectations. His story breaks critical barriers around Black male vulnerability while offering hope to anyone facing similar battles. As he puts it: "Be the light. Let your light so shine before men that they see you do good works which glorify your father, which is in heaven." Follow SELYM's journey across all platforms @SELYM and experience music that doesn't just entertain—it heals. Because sometimes our greatest purpose reveals itself on the other side of our deepest pain. We are so appreciative of you listening we want you to be part of the Up To It movement! https://uptoit.club/ Download the Brightn Wellness App FUTURE podcaster!! here is our link to get started hosting your own online show! https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5554652120350720

    33 min
See All (30)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to "Up To It Parenting," where we help youth, adults, and organizations connect deeply, communicate effectively, and thrive together. This father and son podcast tackles the tough topics that some parents shy away from. Join hosts Jamal and Zion as they explore everything under the sun, from young men's mental health to engaging in healthy relationships and embracing your true authentic self. As a father and son team, Jamal and Zion bring a unique perspective to the podcast, offering insights from both a parental and adolescent point of view. Through their candid and open conversations, they aim to provide a safe and informative space for listeners to learn and grow together. Whether you're a parent looking to connect with your son, a single mother or caregiver in need of support, or a young man trying to find your place in the world, "Up To It Parenting" has something for everyone. Tune in each week as Jamal and Zion take on the taboo topics and help listeners become more informed, productive, and confident members of society.BOOK US NOW https://uptoit.club/Connect with us-  https://linktr.ee/uptoitpodcast

Information

  • Creator
    Jamal and Zion
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    30
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Up To It Parenting
  • Show Website
    Up To It Parenting