The Bridge Parents Podcast

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 habitsWhether 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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

In this episode of The Bridge Parents Podcast, Dr. Dina Bowen shares insights from her decades as a pediatrician and mother of three. She discusses alarming trends in children's health, from rising chronic conditions like asthma and type 2 diabetes to the impact of poor diets, inactivity, and excessive screen time. Dr. Bowen emphasizes the importance of exercise, proper sleep, and whole foods while cautioning against modern dietary and technology habits. Her advice serves as a reminder of time-tested, common-sense parenting strategies to foster healthier lifestyles for children.

Join us for Episode 2 of Season 2 of the Bridge Parents Podcast, where we dive into the challenges of modern parenting with personal stories, expert insights, and valuable resources. In this episode Ryan & Doug discuss the dynamics of maintaining relationships with children throughout different stages of their lives. They reflect on their experiences as parents, sharing insights on how to connect with kids of various ages, from elementary school to adolescence and adulthood. Emphasizing the importance of understanding each child’s unique personality and interests, pursuing their hearts, and creating opportunities for meaningful conversations.

Join us for the first episode of season 2 of the Bridge Parents Podcast, where we dive into the challenges of modern parenting with personal stories, expert insights, and valuable resources. This episode explores the fine line between protecting children and preparing them for real-world challenges, emphasizing the importance of allowing kids to take age-appropriate risks and learn from natural consequences. With references to books by Andy Stanley and Tim Elmore, we discuss common parenting mistakes and how to foster resilience, responsibility, and character in children—while building a supportive parenting community along the way!