OG Therapy #158 - Don’t Hate, Congratulate: Parenting Teen Friendships

In this episode of OG Therapy, we sit down with the founder of the I Love You, Bro Project to hear the incredible story of how one surreal moment changed everything.As a full-time single dad, he never expected that an ordinary drive to a basketball game would turn into a life-or-death encounter on an overpass. That moment not only saved a life, but also opened the door to understanding the silent struggles men face. From battling his own demons to creating a safe space where men can come together, connect, and talk without judgment—this is a story of transformation, connection, and hope.If you want to learn more or get involved, visit iloveyoubroproject.orgPrefer to listen? 🎧 Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/og-therapy/id1628810104 🎧 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/2J70KPQ1J7LJjJsQyFfsXg 🎧 Amazon Music – https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/1e46385c-6e41-47f8-b4b6-9a08f5a1b63dFollow us for more OG content: 📱 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/og.therapy 📱 TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@ogtherapyinc 📱 Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ogtherapyincLearn more about Social Health: 🌐 www.socialhealthinitiative.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/light-the-fight-parenting-podcast4347/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of OG Therapy, we dive into Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)—what it is, why it happens, and how it affects both body and mind. We break down the symptoms, from low mood and fatigue to changes in sleep and appetite, and look at the role of seasonal patterns and reduced sunlight on serotonin, melatonin, and circadian rhythms.Most importantly, we explore how focusing on social health can be a powerful way to manage SAD and bring more light into your fall and winter seasons. If you’ve ever felt the seasonal shift hit hard, this conversation is for you.Prefer to listen?Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcastSpotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/2J70KPQAmazon Music – https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/1e4Follow us for more OG content:Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/og.therapyTikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@ogtherapyincFacebook – https://www.facebook.com/ogtherapyincLearn more about SOCIAL HEALTH:www.socialhealthinitiative.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/light-the-fight-parenting-podcast4347/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of OG Therapy, David unpacks one of the trickiest parts of parenting—when your teenager starts bringing new friends around. Teenagers are natural disruptors. It’s their job to challenge the family’s worldview, test boundaries, and shake things up as they grow. But what happens when the friends they choose make you uneasy?We break down how to handle those moments without driving a wedge between you and your kid. From understanding why teens latch onto certain friend groups to finding ways to show respect instead of judgment, this episode is all about strengthening your relationship through connection, not conflict.Whether you’re a parent trying to navigate your child’s changing social life or simply want better tools to support them, this conversation is packed with strategies you can use right now. Remember the rule: don’t hate, congratulate.Prefer to listen? Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/2J70KPQ... Amazon Music – https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/1e4...Follow us for more OG content: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/og.therapy?... TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@ogtherapyinc?... Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ogtherapyincLearn more about SOCIAL HEALTH: www.socialhealthinitiative.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/light-the-fight-parenting-podcast4347/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of OG Therapy, David dives into the psychology of why kids feel so powerful when an adult shows them attention, and how parents can leverage that to encourage real friendships. We explore practical strategies—from using rewards and bargaining to teaching simple conversation starters—that help kids feel confident connecting with peers.Whether it’s motivating your child to re-connect with old friends, or guiding them to meet new ones, these methods focus on creating positive social experiences that stick. You’ll learn how to use your child’s interests as a “carrot” for social growth, and how to turn back-to-school jitters into opportunities for friendship.Prefer to listen?Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/2J70KPQ...Amazon Music – https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/1e4...Follow us for more OG content:Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/og.therapy?...TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@ogtherapyinc?...Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/61567209868230Learn more about SOCIAL HEALTH:www.socialhealthinitiative.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/light-the-fight-parenting-podcast4347/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of OG Therapy, David breaks down the growing crisis of loneliness among young men and boys—something Governor Gavin Newsom just publicly addressed as a masculinity crisis in California. With nearly 1 in 4 men under 30 reporting no close friends and 42% of teen boys saying they feel lonely, it's clear this isn't just a personal issue—it's a societal one.This one’s about disconnection, purpose, and how we got here. David unpacks why young men are struggling with school, work, and relationships—and why now more than ever, social health has to be part of the solution. Whether you're a parent, mentor, educator, or one of the young men going through it, this episode gives you perspective, compassion, and real talk.Prefer to listen? Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/2J70KPQ... Amazon Music – https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/1e4...Follow us for more OG content: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/og.therapy?... TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@ogtherapyinc?... Facebook – /15xfjk...Learn more about SOCIAL HEALTH: www.socialhealthinitiative.org#OGTherapy #LonelinessCrisis #DisconnectedYouth #YoungMenMatter #SocialHealth #MentalHealthAwareness #MasculinityCrisis #GovNewsom #MaleFriendship #TeenMentalHealth #Purpose #Brotherhood #HealingStartsHere #OGWisdom #Episode156Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/light-the-fight-parenting-podcast4347/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of OG Therapy, David drops some real talk about social media—how one simple post can spiral into something way bigger than you meant. Whether it’s a joke, a vent, or just sharing a moment, people will interpret it through their own lens… and that can get messy.This one’s about thinking before you post, understanding how your words might land, and learning how to protect your relationships and your peace. It’s not about censoring yourself—it’s about being smart, staying grounded, and avoiding drama that isn’t worth it.If you've ever had someone twist your words or take a post the wrong way, this one’s for you.Prefer to listen? Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/2J70KPQ... Amazon Music – https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/1e4...Follow us for more OG content: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/og.therapy?... TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@ogtherapyinc?... Facebook – /15xfjk...Learn more about SOCIAL HEALTH: www.socialhealthinitiative.org#OGTherapy #SocialMediaBoundaries #ThinkBeforeYouPost #EmotionalIntelligence #DigitalRespect #Communication #Support #ConflictPrevention #SocialHealth #OnlineEtiquette #shortsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/light-the-fight-parenting-podcast4347/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of OG Therapy, David breaks down the real-life dynamics between fathers and sons—especially when boys start finding their voice and strength. What happens when a young man begins to stand up for himself at home? What are the rules for keeping respect on both sides? And how can fathers stay strong without shutting down their sons?This one’s about rebuilding trust, setting boundaries, and creating space for emotional growth—without losing the bond. Whether you’re a dad trying to connect better or a son learning to speak up without blowing things up, this episode is packed with clarity, care, and practical ways to do it right.Prefer to listen?Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/2J70KPQ... Amazon Music – https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/1e4...Follow us for more OG content: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/og.therapy?... TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@ogtherapyinc?... Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/share/15Xfjk...Learn more about SOCIAL HEALTH: www.socialhealthinitiative.org#OGTherapy #FathersAndSons #FamilyHealing #RespectAtHome #EmotionalGrowth #Parenting #Masculinity #Support #Boundaries #Connection #SocialHealth #shortsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/light-the-fight-parenting-podcast4347/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of OG Therapy, David continues the conversation on what it really means to be a better sibling—and takes it even deeper. This time, it’s about the why behind the role—how older siblings can shape the emotional health of the whole family, and why your attention, presence, and influence carry more weight than you realize.Whether you're trying to repair, reconnect, or simply show up better, this episode is full of honest insight and practical ways to grow the bond.Prefer to listen?Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2J70KPQ...Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/1e4...Follow us for more OG content:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/og.therapy?...TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ogtherapyinc?...Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/15Xfjk...Learn more about SOCIAL HEALTH:www.socialhealthinitiative.org#OGTherapy #SiblingLove #Family #Healing #EmotionalHealth #Support #Connection #shortsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/light-the-fight-parenting-podcast4347/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of OG Therapy, David breaks down what it means to be a better sibling—and why that role matters more than you might think.From childhood rivalries to adult responsibilities, sibling relationships shape how we show up in the world. David shares insights on how to build trust, communicate better, and support your siblings through all stages of life. Being a good sibling isn’t just about getting along—it’s about strengthening the foundation of your family and showing up with love, loyalty, and growth.Prefer to listen?Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2J70KPQ...Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/1e4...Follow us for more OG content:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/og.therapy?...TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ogtherapyinc?...Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/15Xfjk...Learn more about SOCIAL HEALTH:www.socialhealthinitiative.org#OGTherapy #SiblingLove #Family #Relationships #Support #Connection #Growth #shortsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/light-the-fight-parenting-podcast4347/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

From being vulnerable to truly listening, this episode gives dads real tools to deepen their connection with their daughters. David shares tips on how to communicate with empathy, lead with presence—not pride—and why letting your daughter influence you can actually make you a better father.This episode isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up, being open, and building a bond that lasts.Prefer to listen?Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2J70KPQ... Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/1e4...Follow us for more OG content:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/og.therapy?... TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ogtherapyinc?... Facebook -Learn more about SOCIAL HEALTH: www.socialhealthinitiative.org#OGTherapy #GirlDad #Fatherhood #ParentingDaughters #Vulnerability #ActiveParenting #DadTips #ConnectionOverControl #SocialHealth #EmotionalIntelligence #HealthyRelationships #ParentingTools #shortsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/light-the-fight-parenting-podcast4347/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy