OG Therapy #161 – The Power of Influence: Guiding Teens with Respect

In this episode of OG Therapy, we explore how to combat negative emotions—hate, anger, pride, anxiety—by shifting focus toward family, friends, and community. David reflects on how choosing where we put our energy gives us back something far greater: fortitude, resilience, and self-confidence.Through personal stories about helping his wife with a headache and having a tough but healing conversation with his mechanic, David shows that service, kindness, and connection aren’t just feel-good actions—they’re powerful tools to regain control in an uncontrollable world.This episode is a reminder that the real endgame isn’t just winning for ourselves. We win when our loved ones win too.🎧 Listen here: Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/ogtherapy Spotify: https://spoti.fi/ogtherapy YouTube: https://youtube.com/ogtherapy Facebook: https://facebook.com/ogtherapySupport 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, David shares a deeply personal story about how his son became the mirror reflecting back the weight of his stress and sleeplessness. Through their conversation, David realized how much his actions impacted his son’s well-being — from the worries he carried silently to the prayers he said every night.We explore the power of parental influence, how stress transfers between fathers and sons, and the importance of modeling healthy habits. This moment opened David’s eyes to the unspoken ways kids absorb our struggles, and how honesty and change can reshape the whole family dynamic.🔗 Listen on:Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SbB3HrSpotify: https://spoti.fi/44LwTg2YouTube: https://bit.ly/3Q3y6nAFacebook: https://bit.ly/3q9PukpSupport 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 explore how to influence teenagers positively without relying on strict rules or constant conflict. Through a real-life story, we share how setting boundaries with respect and understanding creates a mutually beneficial relationship between parents and teens.What is real power? It’s the ability to influence others in a way that lasts—and we break down how parents can use that power to guide their kids while still being “the cool parents.” From setting boundaries on things like vaping to making your home a safe and welcoming place, this episode is packed with insights on connection, trust, and influence.Whether you’re a parent, mentor, or just someone who cares about the next generation, this conversation will give you tools to lead with respect instead of control.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 –   / og.therapy  TikTok –   / ogtherapyinc  Facebook –   / ogtherapyinc  Learn 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 sit down with Heidi Swapp to catch up and dive deep into the importance of open communication. We explore why talking—especially through the hard stuff—strengthens families, friendships, and communities.Drawing on insights from Charlie Kirk’s perspective, we highlight how conversations prevent division: when parents stop talking, families fracture; when neighbors stop talking, communities weaken. Together, we discuss why keeping the dialogue open, even when it’s uncomfortable, is essential for building connection and resilience.We also touch on the pillars of social health—your relationship with yourself, with others, and with mentors or adults—and how mastering these skills can shift the entire trajectory of life. From navigating Alzheimer’s fears to addressing suicidal thoughts in teens, this episode is about finding common ground, sticking together, and remembering: we all need one another to thrive.https://www.instagram.com/heidiswapp?igsh=dmw1NTRlMnV6ajVlPrefer to listen?Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/og-therapy/id1675675578Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/2J70KPQvRjQeCjOQ0Fzt4dAmazon Music – https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/1e4b2239-b63d-4b55-b3c7-28c3df6e9f0d/og-therapyFollow 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, 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