How do we keep our kids safe online? How do we have real conversations about real issues our kids are struggling with? Join Mandy Majors (award-winning author of "TALK" and "Keeping Kids Safe in a Digital World") and Kim Elerick (former radio morning host and nextTalk Director) every Monday for practical parenting stories! nextTalk is a nonprofit organization keeping kids safe by creating a culture of honest conversation in families, churches and schools. More than Cyberparenting: Conversati ...
We were asked by a parent: Our friends don't monitor screens like we do. Should I let my kids go to their house? We share how to handle these types of difficult conversations and why it's important. Support the showBy nextTalk
In overwhelming times like May, it's important to admit when were struggling. There are usually signs that warn us that we are not in a good place. Are we willing to recognize those before we go from breaking point to mental breakdown? Support the showBy nextTalk
Mandy's 18-year-old daughter talks candidly about what it's like growing up in a nextTalk home. From social media to modesty, screen guidelines to expectations and the development of her faith -- we’re covering a lot of ground that we hope will be helpful. Support the showBy nextTalk
As our kids are dreaming big about playing in the NFL or being a famous singer, how do we handle that? We don't want to squelch their dreams, but we also want to be real with them. We share what that looks like in our homes and why we believe that parents are called to be more than just cheerleaders for their kids. Support the show…
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HOW and WHERE are your kids hanging out online?
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A parent recently reached out about the iPod Touch. Their question launched a good conversation into how kids connect online at different ages (devices they're using) and where they're meeting up in apps. Support the showBy nextTalk
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My kid is telling me everything. Do I speak up?
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When you are successful in creating a nextTalk culture in your family, one of the toughest parts is...YOU KNOW EVERYTHING ABOUT EVERYONE! So what do we do with all of this information? We share 3 steps to hone in on, but spend most of the show sharing real life examples of situations we've faced and for each one, should we "Get involved - or not?" …
Cheating has always been around, but with smartphones and online access, it's not only easier to cheat, but to some degree ... it's become normalized. Considering all the big topics we're tackling with our kids, is this really a big deal? We discuss three reasons why we think it's more important than you may realize. Support the show (http://www.ne…
The world often feels scary and our knee-jerk reaction can be to bubblewrap our kids and call it a day. On this show we explain why being overly protective doesn't work and what we can do instead to help our kids. Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/give)By nextTalk
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Parent Question: This world is so sexualized. How do I approach these conversations with my son?
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This question brought Mandy back to a conversation she had with her son years ago about sexualizing women. This story is important because it reminds us that our conversations about sex, culture, boundaries and the responsibility we have start young and grow with our kids. We share some helpful talking points and examples on how to have these conve…
In this divisive world, it is truly a skill to be respectful and kind with those we disagree with. As we learn this lesson as adults, it's so important to teach this craft to our kids. Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/give)By nextTalk
Addiction is a big word and needs to be used with caution. But don't we all have some sort of screen struggle? We define 3 different relationships with screens and discuss practical ways to address this very important topic with your kids and spouse. Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/give)By nextTalk
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A kid is confiding in me. Do I tell the parent?
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At events, we get asked this question from parents, youth pastors, volunteers and teachers; What if a child is confiding in me about a struggle, and I'm their safe place. Do I tell the parent? We share some practical tools to consider when faced with this dilemma as well as specific verbiage from our trusted network of Licensed Professional Counsel…
Recently the mom of a middle schooler asked for help with navigating the friendship drama her child was experiencing. We share what Mandy suggested to her including ideas for talking with your kid about different types of friendships and how to handle conflict. Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/give)…
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I want to talk about everything. My husband does not.
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What happens when Mom wants to dive in and create a new culture of conversation with the kids where no topic is off-limits … but Dad does not? Mandy’s husband joins as a guest, and they talk about when they were that couple. How did they move from opposite sides of the spectrum to working on the same team? Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/…
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Warning Signs to Dig Deeper with Your Kid
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Kids say and do things often that can be alarming. But when should we move from observation to concern? We give examples of some behavior to definitely pay attention to as well as some practical ways to dig deeper in conversation to determine if there is a real problem. Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/give)…
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My child is ready for social media. Where should I start?
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We get this parent question all the time! Listen for guidelines to determine if your child is really ready, what platform we suggest starting with, and parenting tips to help once they have their social media accounts. Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/give)By nextTalk
Mandy interviews author, Jim Musser, about his brand-new book, "Letters from Downstream." He shares the high rate at which kids are leaving their Christian faith once they get to college, as well as practical ideas for parents and churches to implement that could help change this trend. Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/give)…
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My kid is online but never tells me anything bad. What should I do?
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This is one of our most common parent questions! We'll give you 5 basic guidelines to share with your kids that will get them reporting what they see and hear online and in person. Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/give)
Deconstruction is a big topic. We’ve heard some say it leads to “wokeness” and Progressive Christianity. What does it mean and how can you be prepared if your kid comes home and announces they’re deconstructing their faith? We share ideas for practical conversations, but also give you a good resource if you want to dive deeper into theology re: dec…
Today we celebrate the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr, but we believe the conversations about race and racism need to happen every day. We share how other parents are tackling this tough subject and practical ways to address racism with your kids. Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/give)…
It's been around a long time, and some of us are even tired of hearing about it. Is it good or bad? Helpful or not? We're discussing the benefits and pitfalls of the enneagram and how it can affect your relationships. Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/give)By nextTalk
Do you feel pulled in a million different directions? We get it! We asked ourselves some hard questions and realized that we needed to take some practical steps toward realigning our hearts and schedules to what really matters this season. We share some ideas we hope will help you slow down and focus on HIM this Christmas. Support the show (http://…
We sat down with Kamryn Nichols a couple of weeks before her wedding so she could share her story with us. As a young student, she was struggling to find her way because things didn't go as planned. (Kamryn is the daughter of Kim Nichols, our nextTalk Event Coordinator, so we're calling this our first nextTalk wedding!) Support the show (http://www…
Grit = Strength of character. How do we teach that to our kids? It's not easy, but it's absolutely worth it, and absolutely possible. Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/give)By nextTalk
From grooming to sex trafficking, having a no secrets policy in your home is vital to keeping your kids safe. Not only will we give you a better understanding of the "why" behind this rule, but we'll give you practical tools and stories to help you implement this safeguard in your home. Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/give)…
Whether it's outspoken Uncle Jankins, over-the-top neighbor Francine, or the little kid that always ransacks your child's toys, we've all received the eye-roll when we tell our family that a certain person is coming over. We believe there may be a few missed conversations that we need to be having before "that person" shows up! Support the show (ht…
The leap from elementary to middle school can feel like you've landed in an alternate universe where your once responsible, organized, focused student now seems to be struggling. This is not uncommon! We share our own struggles and some practical ways to help you and your kid get back on track and succeed. Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/…
FOMO = Fear of Missing Out. Your child says, "I feel left out because my friends are talking about Fortnite at the lunch table and I have no idea what they're saying." Or maybe they say, "I saw pictures on Instagram of all my friends at a party, but I wasn't invited." Whatever the circumstances might be, learning strategies for parenting FOMO is he…
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10 Practical Ideas to Help Your Kid Prepare for College
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College isn't THE path, it's one path. It isn't for everyone, but if your child is headed for college -- you need to plan. Mandy just walked her oldest through this process and shares 10 practical things she's learned. Note: Kim has the youngest kids on the team and found this show VERY helpful, too! Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/give)…
Bullying is a serious issue that can't be dismissed. On this show we discuss the critical conversations we need to have with our kids about understanding what bullying is and isn't. We highlight how to help our kids when they are in an actual bullying situation, share a great resource, and discuss how we all play a role in bullying prevention. Supp…
We all have ways to relax- wine, shopping, food, binge watching our favorite show, etc. What happens, though, when you realize you may have crossed the line from just relaxing? One of our hosts walks you through her personal experience where God convicted her heart to make a change. Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/give)…
Warning: Adult content. Parental guidance is advised. As your kid gets older, this show will help you expand on the sex talk. We're giving medical facts in a practical format that you can weave into conversation with your kids. Joanie Eaton, an RN from The Sexual Health & Reproductive Education Center, covers everything from STDs to current sexual …
When you know you've reacted poorly or done something wrong, what do you do with those feelings? Discerning between a nudge to change or apologize versus going to a dark place, is key. We share some ways to help understand the difference between shame and conviction and how to walk your kids through these emotions as well. Support the show (http://…
If you're a parent, you've probably struggled with this question! Mandy and Kim discuss how our kid's behavior help us determine our stance, as well as a few strategies for navigating when to draw the line or let out the kite string. Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/give)By nextTalk
Recently on social media we asked for topics you wanted us to discuss on the show. How to deal with emotional vomit was high on the list! We consulted our team and came up with a handful of ideas that may help you hold the bucket for your kid. Support the showBy nextTalk
On this show, Mandy shares a disappointing parenting moment that could have spiraled fast. Instead, wisdom from friends equipped her with new ways to combat mom guilt. If you're a mom and have felt guilty about missing something with your kid, listen to this show! Support the showBy nextTalk
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When your kid says, "Why don't you trust me?"
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Recently on our social media, a mom asked us for help. She said "My 13-year-old son says I give him no privacy on his phone - why don't you trust me?" We have some ideas on how to address the "Do you trust me?" question from your kids no matter the circumstance. And, some exciting announcements from nextTalk! Support the show…
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Modesty, Purity Culture & the Matthew West Controversy
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We thought it was important to discuss the controversy that recently erupted over Matthew West's satirical song about modesty. It's opened up a lot of discussion on social media about purity culture and modesty that can lead to some great conversations with your kids. Mandy's teen daughter also drops in as a guest to share her perspective! Support …
The reality is that our bodies are changing. As we age, it's important to communicate with our spouse, tell a friend, and be aware of our unhealthy self-talk when we're struggling with appearance. Also, how is our body image affecting our kids? Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/give)By nextTalk
Important announcement about our show as well as practical ways to move forward with life post-pandemic. Have you hit a wall? Do you feel exhausted from this past 18 months and you just need a minute before all the normal things of life resume? Well, you're not alone. Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/give)…
If an online stranger or social media influencer is trying to get your child to turn against a loved one in real life who has proven to be safe and trustworthy, it should be a red flag. How do you respond if you see your child being deceived? Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/give)By nextTalk
Have you ever thought about having a mission, vision and core values for your family? Maybe you have, but are they written out in a way that includes the whole family having input and taking ownership? Maybe you just need a refresher or new ideas on how to implement these concepts in your home. Listen-in to hear from a company that has a heart for …
Our guest shares his incredible testimony about the destruction pornography has had on his life and how Jesus delivered him from his addiction. Ariel Delgado is a Program Director for the Christian ministry, Family ID. Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/give)By nextTalk
The day will come when your child will go to college or leave to start life apart from you. Did you ever consider that letting go starts when they are little? Tune in for some realizations that may help you prepare to let go the way God intended. Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/give)
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Christians Reacting to Culture: Lil Nas X
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We recently watched a controversy unfold — lap dance with the devil and Satan shoes. As Christians, how should we respond? Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/give)By nextTalk
Sex. Yes! But so much more. In this fast-paced instant gratification world, are we raising our kids with the essential skill of waiting? Its not easy, but its very important. Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/give)By nextTalk
Years ago, Mandy's daughter told her she was not a good listener. Since then, she has learned a few key things about listening that have improved her parenting, marriage, and friendships. Listen-in to hear 3 key steps to becoming a better listener. Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/give)By nextTalk
On our previous TikTok show, we gave you the general ins and outs of this app along with some good and bad things to be aware of. Since then, we have learned so much more. Tune in for a deep dive into the worlds of TikTok your kids may be hanging out in. Support the showBy nextTalk
Have you heard? We have a new podcast in the nextTalk family! Mandy and Kim's husbands will be hosting a weekly podcast just for dads! They will share stories, from a guy's perspective, about what it looks like to parent the digital world, manage work-life balance, be a good husband and more. Tune-in to hear Charles and Matt explain what to expect …
Today, we're celebrating! At the end of this show we have an announcement you WILL NOT want to miss! But the entire program is about some incredible milestones and exciting growth happening at nextTalk. Support the show (http://www.nextTalk.org/give)By nextTalk