Connect With Your Teens | Conversation Starters, Parenting Tips, Screen Time, Build Connection, Communication Skills

Terri Lee | Christian Parenting Coach, Communication Specialist, & B.A. Social Work
  • 5.0 (83)
  • PARENTING
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

*****TOP 2.0% GLOBAL PODCAST***** The go-to podcast for Christian moms who want deeper connection with their teens. Are you tired of feeling dismissed every time your teen pulls out their phone mid-conversation? Do conversations with your teen feel more like nagging sessions than real connection? Is your teen shut down, distracted, or glued to a screen… while you’re desperate to build trust and keep your relationship strong? I’m so excited you’re here! This podcast will help you move from walking on eggshells to having real, trust-building conversations—without the nagging, misunderstandings or push-back. My mission is to equip you to communicate with tools that replace frustration with understanding, turn tension into trust, and help you become the mom your teen feels safe opening up to. Hi, I’m Terri Lee. A wife, mom, tutu, and communication coach. For years, I thought the key to raising my kids well was teaching the right lessons, taking them to church, and trying to fix their behavior. But instead of building connections it only led to frustration, distance, and feeling like my words didn’t matter. I realized that to have deep, lasting connections—both now and after my kids left home—I needed to change how I communicated. So, I did. I learned to listen without criticism, speak in a way my kids felt safe, and build thriving relationships. Now, I help moms do the same, and I can’t wait to share it with you! If you’re looking for practical ways to talk to your teen, build a relationship based on mutual respect, and get them off their phones long enough to connect—this show is for you. Grab your latte and let’s dive into it. Want to stay connected? ✨ Join the FB Community: Connect With Your Teens Facebook Group ✨ Become a Connect With Your Teens Insider for weekly tips, encouragement, and be the first to know of upcoming events: Weekly Newsletter ✨ Instagram: @terricommunicationcoach ✨ Contact: support@connectwithyourteens.com

  1. 2D AGO

    62 | How to Build Trust With Your Teen: A Real Mom Story with Dina Windle (Part 1)

    What do you do when your teen is angry… emotional… or pushing you away? Most of us react. We defend. We try to fix. But what if the moment you feel the most tension…is actually your greatest opportunity to build connection? In this episode, Terri sits down with mom Dina Windle for a real-life conversation about a difficult moment with her daughter—one that could have created more distance, but instead became a turning point in their relationship. This is part one of a powerful two-part conversation where you’ll hear what it looks like to stay anchored, listen differently, and create the kind of safety that helps your teen open up. You’ll Learn: Why reacting in the moment can shut your teen down How staying anchored helps your teen feel safe and heard What it looks like to listen without taking things personally How connection begins even in the middle of conflict If you’ve ever walked away from a conversation with your teen thinking, “Why did that go that way again?” this episode will give you a new way to approach those moments. Press play and hear what’s possible when connection comes first. Have you ever walked away from a conversation with your teen wondering, “Why did that go that way again?” You don’t have to figure this out alone. In my 1-hour Communication Coaching Call, we’ll look at what’s really happening beneath the surface and help you move forward with clarity, peace, and a plan to rebuild connection. 👉 https://connectwithyourteens.com/1-hour-communicationcoaching Want more support? 🤍Looking for a safe, faith-based community of moms who get it?  Come join us inside the How To Connect With Your Teens Facebook group—we’re waiting to welcome you: Connect With Your Teens Facebook Group 💌Want weekly encouragement straight to your in box? Become a Connect With Your Teens Insider for weekly parenting tips, encouragement, and support straight to your inbox Weekly Newsletter ✨Follow or DM Instagram: @terricommunicationcoach ✨Contact: support@connectwithyourteens.com

    23 min

  2. MAR 27

    61 | 5 Signs Your Teen Still Wants Connection (Even When They're Pushing You Away)

    What if your teen pushing you away… isn’t rejection at all? What if it’s actually a sign they still want connection—with you? When your teen is argumentative, emotional, or shutting you out, it’s easy to believe the connection is gone. Many moms start to feel like they’re losing their influence—or that their teen simply doesn’t care anymore. But what if that behavior isn’t disconnection… it’s a cry for connection? In this episode, we’re reframing what you’re seeing so you can understand what your teen is really asking for beneath their behavior—and begin to build connection again with confidence and clarity. You’ll Learn The difference between a broken connection and a fractured one 5 surprising signs your teen still wants connection What your teen is really asking for beneath attitude or shutdown A simple shift that will strengthen your communication skills instantly If you’ve been wondering how to reconnect or questioning if your teen still needs you… this episode will give you hope—and a new way to see what’s really happening. Do you want weekly encouragement, parenting tips, and communication skills to strengthen you relationships straight to your in box? Then click the link to join my Connect With Your Teens Insider list today!  Become an Insider here: Weekly Newsletter Want more support? 🤍Looking for a safe, faith-based community of moms who get it?  Come join us inside the How To Connect With Your Teens Facebook group—we’re waiting to welcome you: Connect With Your Teens Facebook Group Would you like inspiring worship music to anchor you in your journey? 🎧You can get my Anchoring Spotify Playlist here:: https://bit.ly/AnchoringPlaylist ✨Follow or DM Instagram: @terricommunicationcoach ✨Contact: support@connectwithyourteens.com

    15 min

  3. MAR 26

    60 | Why Fear Blocks Connection With Your Teen (Do This Instead)

    What if the hardest moments in conversations with your teen…aren’t something to fix—but something to step into? That tension you feel…that fear rising up inside of you…what if it’s not the problem? What if it’s actually the place God wants to meet you—and begin transforming how you show up in parenting teens and relationships? In this episode, we’re talking about the internal wrestle so many moms experience…and how truth-telling—not fixing—is where freedom begins. If you’ve ever: Felt fear or anxiety rise in conversations with your teen Worried about saying the wrong thing or creating distance Tried to “handle it right” but still felt disconnected This episode will help you see those moments differently, so you can build connection and respond from a place of truth—not fear. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why fear shows up in conversations with your teen How the “internal wrestle” is actually an invitation from God What Jacob’s story reveals about identity and transformation The simple question that can open the door to transformation How to begin responding from your identity in Christ instead of fear You don’t have to get it perfect. You can simply stay in the present—and be willing to tell the truth. 💬 If this podcast has encouraged or helped you would you take 30 seconds to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. Your review helps more moms see the podcast and get support. Click here to review on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/connect-with-your-teens-conversation-starters/id1826286296 💛 Want more support? 🤍Looking for a safe, faith-based community of moms who get it?  Come join us inside the How To Connect With Your Teens Facebook group—we’re waiting to welcome you: https://www.facebook.com/groups/connectwithyourteens ✨Follow or DM Instagram: @terricommunicationcoach ✨Contact: support@connectwithyourteens.com

    12 min

  4. MAR 21

    59 | Why Your Teen Stops Talking (And How to Fix It)

    Have you ever noticed your teen starts opening up…and somehow, the conversation shuts down? You’re trying to help. You’re trying to guide. But instead of getting closer… they pull away. What if the problem isn’t what you’re saying—but how quickly you’re trying to fix it? In this episode, I’m sharing one simple communication skill that can completely change the way your teen responds to you—helping them feel safe, understood, and actually want to keep talking. This is the shift that builds trust… one conversation at a time. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why teens shut down when we move too quickly to solutions The listening mistake most moms don’t realize they’re making How summarizing creates safety and deeper connection What to say so it doesn’t feel awkward or scripted A simple way to start using this today If your teen has been distant, quiet, or hard to reach lately—this episode will show you where to start. 🎧 Press play and learn the skill that opens real conversation. ✨ Want support for applying this in real life? I’m hosting a free, private monthly support group for moms of teens — live on Zoom. It’s a safe space to come as you are, talk through what’s been hard, and get support around communication and connection. We’re kicking it off on Wednesday, March 25th at 10 AM MST. You’ll need to register to join. 👉 Save your seat here: https://connectwithyourteens.com/supportgroup Resources: 💌 Want weekly encouragement and communication tips straight to your inbox?  Sign up for the newsletter and get practical tips, stories of how this works in real life & hope sent to you every week. Weekly Newsletter 🤍Looking for a safe, faith-based community of moms who get it?  Come join us inside the How To Connect With Your Teens Facebook group—we’re waiting to welcome you: Connect With Your Teens Facebook Group ✨Follow or DM Instagram: @terricommunication ✨Contact: support@connectwithyourteens.com

    16 min

  5. MAR 19

    Bonus | Why Conversations With Your Teen Still Feel Off

    Have you ever put thought into how you were going to respond to your teen… and the conversation still didn’t go the way you expected? You’re trying to stay calm. You’re thinking about what to say. And still… something feels off. In this short bonus episode, we’re talking about why communication with your teenager can feel harder than expected — even when your heart is in the right place — and the small shift that can begin building connection again. If you’ve been navigating tension, silence, or conversations that don’t go very deep, this episode will help you see what may be happening underneath it — and how to begin responding differently in a way that strengthens your relationship. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why conversations with your teen can feel off even when you’re trying What may be creating disconnection in communication A simple shift that helps build trust and connection ✨Ready for more support? If you’ve been wanting better communication with your teen but aren’t sure what to change, this will give you a place to start. If you’re listening and wishing you had support with this right now, you’re invited to join my free Connect With Your Teens Monthly Support Group — a simple space to talk through real-life conversations and move toward connection. Register 👉 https://connectwithyourteens.com/supportgroup 🤍Looking for a safe, faith-based community of moms who get it?  Come join us inside the How To Connect With Your Teens Facebook group—we’re waiting to welcome you: Connect With Your Teens Facebook Group 💌Want weekly encouragement straight to your in box? Become a Connect With Your Teens Insider for weekly parenting tips, encouragement, and support straight to your inbox Weekly Newsletter ✨Follow or DM Instagram: @terricommunicationcoach ✨Contact: support@connectwithyourteens.com

    4 min

  6. MAR 18

    58 | 5 Scriptures to Anchor Communication Skills and Build Connection

    Have you ever walked away from a conversation with your teen thinking… “Why did I say that?” or “I think I just made that worse…” You love your teen. You want to guide them, help them, and stay connected. But sometimes, in the moment, your response comes out of frustration, fear, or pressure—and it leaves both of you feeling more disconnected. What if the problem isn’t your communication skills… but what you’re anchored to in the moment? In this episode of Connect With Your Teens, Terri’s sharing 5 powerful scriptures you can use to anchor your identity in Christ so you can communicate with more peace, clarity, and confidence—and begin to build connection with your teen in a way that actually invites them to open up. This isn’t about saying the perfect thing. It’s about becoming anchored before you respond. In this episode, you’ll learn: How anchoring your identity in Christ strengthens your communication skills Why fear, guilt, and frustration can quickly disrupt connection with your teen 5 scriptures to help you feel steady and calm in difficult conversations How to respond in a way that builds connection instead of creating distance If you’ve been feeling frustrated, reactive, or unsure how to respond in conversations with your teen, this episode will give you a simple, faith-anchored place to start. Ready for more personal support?  On a personalized Communication Coaching Call, we’ll gently uncover what may be blocking connection with your teen and help you take simple, practical steps forward so you can begin responding differently right away. You can learn more and book your session here: connectwithyourteens.com/1-hour-communicationcoaching Connection with your teen doesn’t come from perfect communication. It grows when you’re anchored—and they feel safe to be heard. 💛 Need ongoing support?  Join my free monthly support group for moms of teens — a safe, faith-led space for guidance, connection, and encouragement. Learn more here: https://connectwithyourteens.com/supportgroup 💌Want weekly encouragement straight to your in box? Become a Connect With Your Teens Insider for weekly parenting tips, encouragement, and support straight to your inbox Weekly Newsletter 🤍Looking for a safe, faith-based community of moms who get it?  Come join us inside the How To Connect With Your Teens Facebook group—we’re waiting to welcome you: Connect With Your Teens Facebook Group 💬 Want to help more moms like you get the support they’ve been praying for? Leave a review so they can find this podcast and renewed hope for their relationship: https://bit.ly/ConnectWithYourTeensPodcast

    21 min

  7. MAR 14

    57 | Why Mom Guilt Is Sabotaging Communication With Your Teen: And How to Build Connection Instead

    Have you ever walked away from a conversation with your teen thinking… “Why did I say that?” “I should have handled that better.” “Maybe I messed this up.” That quiet voice of mom guilt can creep in quickly. And while it often comes from love and a deep desire to guide your child well, it can quietly shape the way we communicate with our teens. Sometimes guilt leads us to over-explain, over-advise, or walk on eggshells in conversations. We try harder, talk more, and push for solutions—only to find our teen shutting down or pulling away. In this episode of Connect With Your Teens, we talk about how mom guilt can cloud our communication skills and unintentionally create pressure in conversations. You’ll learn simple shifts that help you communicate from peace and confidence instead of fear—so you can build connection and create space where your teen feels safe to talk. In this episode, you’ll learn: How mom guilt quietly shapes conversations with your teen Five ways guilt can unintentionally block connection Simple communication shifts that help your teen feel heard and understood Why listening first often opens the door to deeper conversations ✨ Ready to begin healing your relationship with your teen? Schedule a Communication Coaching Call with me-we’ll uncover what may be blocking connection in your relationships and map out practical next steps so you can walk forward with the ability to respond with clarity, peace, and confidence. 👉connectwithyourteens.com/1-hour-communicationcoaching Connection with your teen doesn’t grow out of guilt. It grows when they feel safe to talk—and safe to be heard. Want more support? 🤍Looking for a safe, faith-based community of moms who get it? Come join us inside the How To Connect With Your Teens Facebook group—we’re waiting to welcome you: Connect With Your Teens Facebook Group 💌Become a Connect With Your Teens Insider for weekly parenting tips, encouragement, and support straight to your inbox Weekly Newsletter ✨Instagram: @terricommunicationcoach ✨Contact: support@connectwithyourteens.com 🎧Grab your Anchoring Spotify Playlist here for encouragement in who you are and how much you're loved: https://bit.ly/AnchoringPlaylist

    14 min

  8. MAR 10

    56 | Are You Accidentally Shutting Down Your Teen? 3 Communication Patterns That Block Connection

    Have you ever walked away from a conversation with your teen thinking, “I was trying to encourage them… so why did they shut down?” You care deeply. You’re trying to listen, understand, and support your teen. But sometimes conversations still end in silence, distance, or frustration. In this episode, we talk about three common communication patterns many loving moms use that sound supportive and relatable on the surface… but can unintentionally leave a teen feeling unheard or cause them to stop talking. These patterns often come from a good place — wanting to comfort, relate, or encourage your child when they’re hurting. But when we respond this way, they can shift the focus away from your teen’s own words and experience instead of helping them feel understood.  You’ll discover how these subtle ways we try to show love and support can block connection — and how simple shifts in your communication skills can help your child feel understood and safe continuing the conversation. You’ll learn: The 3 communication patterns that can unintentionally block connection Why encouragement, reassurance, or sharing your own story can sometimes backfire How to recognize when a conversation shifts away from your teen’s experience One simple awareness step that can begin opening the door to deeper conversations If you’ve ever wondered why your teen shuts down even when you’re trying to help, this episode will give you practical communication strategies to help your teen feel safer talking and strengthen your relationship. 🎧 Ready for breakthrough with your teen? If today’s conversation encouraged you and you’re realizing you’d like some personal support navigating communication with your teen, you don’t have to figure it out alone. You can learn more about my 1-hour communication coaching call here: https://connectwithyourteens.com/1-hour-communicationcoaching 💌Become a Connect With Your Teens Insider for weekly parenting tips, encouragement, and support straight to your inbox Weekly Newsletter 🤍Looking for a safe, faith-based community of moms who get it? Come join us inside the How To Connect With Your Teens Facebook group—we’re waiting to welcome you: Connect With Your Teens Facebook Group 💬 If you learned something from this episode or were encouraged to deepen your connection with your teen, I'd love it if you'd take thirty seconds to leave a review so more moms can find the support they’ve been praying for. https://bit.ly/ConnectWithYourTeensPodcast ✨Instagram: @terricommunicationcoach ✨Contact: support@connectwithyourteens.com

    14 min
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About

*****TOP 2.0% GLOBAL PODCAST***** The go-to podcast for Christian moms who want deeper connection with their teens. Are you tired of feeling dismissed every time your teen pulls out their phone mid-conversation? Do conversations with your teen feel more like nagging sessions than real connection? Is your teen shut down, distracted, or glued to a screen… while you’re desperate to build trust and keep your relationship strong? I’m so excited you’re here! This podcast will help you move from walking on eggshells to having real, trust-building conversations—without the nagging, misunderstandings or push-back. My mission is to equip you to communicate with tools that replace frustration with understanding, turn tension into trust, and help you become the mom your teen feels safe opening up to. Hi, I’m Terri Lee. A wife, mom, tutu, and communication coach. For years, I thought the key to raising my kids well was teaching the right lessons, taking them to church, and trying to fix their behavior. But instead of building connections it only led to frustration, distance, and feeling like my words didn’t matter. I realized that to have deep, lasting connections—both now and after my kids left home—I needed to change how I communicated. So, I did. I learned to listen without criticism, speak in a way my kids felt safe, and build thriving relationships. Now, I help moms do the same, and I can’t wait to share it with you! If you’re looking for practical ways to talk to your teen, build a relationship based on mutual respect, and get them off their phones long enough to connect—this show is for you. Grab your latte and let’s dive into it. Want to stay connected? ✨ Join the FB Community: Connect With Your Teens Facebook Group ✨ Become a Connect With Your Teens Insider for weekly tips, encouragement, and be the first to know of upcoming events: Weekly Newsletter ✨ Instagram: @terricommunicationcoach ✨ Contact: support@connectwithyourteens.com

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