Messy Family Project
Perfect for
Parents
HOSTS
Alicia Hernon
Mike Hernon
FOLLOW THEM
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Catholic conversations on marriage and family. Offering encouragement, practical advice, and suggestions for parents on this messy adventure.
Parenting is not a clean-cut, simple process for those who like to follow the rules. Family life is messy and unpredictable, but it is the greatest adventure you will ever have. We are Mike and Alicia Hernon, parents of 10 children with a growing number of grandchildren, and we would like to invite you into some of the conversations we have had with each other about marriage, parenting, and Catholic family life. Our hope is that our conversation sparks a dialogue between you and your spouse that leads to greater unity and intentional Christian parenting in your home. Listen in to our podcast and start the conversation as we seek to lead our families to heaven.
Visit us at https:///www/MessyFamilyProject.org for resources, guides, links and show notes.
Summary
Parenting teens can feel like navigating a storm. Emotions run high and mistakes are inevitable. In this updated reflection on our original 2017 episode, we dive into the art of disciplining teenagers not just to manage behavior, but to raise mature disciples of Christ.
We share what we’ve learned from parenting our ten kids, what it means to move from control to connection, and how to maintain strong relationships during the most challenging years. Whether you’re in the thick of adolescence or preparing for it, this episode offers encouragement, clarity, and practical tools.
Topics include: • Building trust and fostering independence • Avoiding the trap of control or punishment • Communicating values in a way teens can hear • Creating rules that actually work
Couple Discussion Questions
In what ways do we tend to default to control instead of connection when our teens challenge us?
How can we help each other start with our own hearts before reacting to difficult teen behavior?
What opportunities can we create this week to invest in one-on-one connection with our teen(s)?
Are there any household rules we need to revisit or simplify to better serve our teens’ growth?
What does it mean to us to parent for Christian maturity rather than just obedience?
