Best Cal Farley Podcasts (2025)

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Help!!!! My Kid Won't Get Off Their Phone: Simple Strategies To Get Your Kids More Active 30:10

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6h ago30:10

30:10

Send us a text We explore how everyday movement regulates kids’ brains, lifts moods, and strengthens family bonds, then trade practical ways to make activity normal, fun, and realistic. From garage gyms to free play and turkey trots, we show how tiny steps become lasting habits. • why physical activity regulates mood and brain development • modelin…

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Help!!! My Child Is a Picky Eater!! Simple Strategies to Transform Your Family's Eating Habits 29:03

14d ago29:03

29:03

Send us a text Busy nights don’t have to end with a drive-thru bag on the passenger seat. We unpack how real families build healthier routines without turning dinner into a daily fight. From the science of why protein steadies energy and behavior to the sneaky pull of engineered snack foods, we break down what actually helps when life is packed wit…

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If Lectures Worked, Teenagers Would Love Them 24:56

16d ago24:56

24:56

Send us a text Hard talks don’t have to feel like walking into a storm. Today we will unpack how parents can build trust early, stay steady under pressure, and guide kids through topics like death, sex, bullying, and mental health without shutting them down. The focus is simple and powerful: start small, stay honest, and keep connection at the cent…

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Family Calendars: Building Routines Kids Trust 31:40

28d ago31:40

31:40

Send us a text Chaos fades when the calendar leads. We sit down to unpack how predictable routines help kids feel safe, lower tantrums, and give parents room to breathe. From morning transitions to bedtime wind‑downs, we map out the small habits that make days smoother and decisions easier. We dig into the difference between healthy structure and s…

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Understanding Kids’ Triggers And Building Calmer Homes 40:20

1M ago40:20

40:20

Send us a text We show how naming triggers turns chaos into connection and why front loading, choice, and curiosity help kids and parents regulate. Real stories illustrate hidden triggers, values clashes, and how to repair with grace after hard moments. • defining triggers and why past experiences matter • front loading schedules and reducing surpr…

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How Community Service Builds Kinder, Stronger Kids: Building Gratitude, Empathy, and Real-World Skills 35:31

1M ago35:31

35:31

Send us a text Want your child to trade boredom and entitlement for empathy, confidence, and real-world skills? We unpack how consistent, hands-on service can flip that switch. We dive into why serving others accelerates brain development from self-focus to perspective-taking, and how repeated, real-life interactions build emotional intelligence th…

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Five Practical Ways To Improve Your Family Life Today!!!! 31:16

2M ago31:16

31:16

Send us a text Feeling overloaded by family logistics and daily meltdowns? We brought together our counseling, training, clinical, and campus life team to share five brain-based strategies that bring calm, clarity, and connection without adding more stress. You’ll hear how simple routines reduce decision fatigue, why writing the plan where everyone…

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Parent Traps- How Inconsistency Shapes A Child’s Behavior 17:38

2M ago17:38

17:38

Send us a text We end our Parent Trap series by unpacking mixed style parenting—why inconsistency breeds anxiety and mistrust, and how to replace it with steady, human follow-through. We map the biggest traps and share simple, repeatable steps for alignment and repair. If you like the show, please tell a friend or family member, especially if you w…

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Parent Traps- From Control to Connection: Rethinking “Because I Said So” 41:30

2M ago41:30

41:30

Send us a text Ever feel the pull toward “because I said so” when everything is spinning? We take a hard, honest look at authoritarian parenting traps—how they work, why they’re tempting, and what they cost. We unpack the drill sergeant mindset, Sunday Best performance, image-first “ice sculpture” homes, coach-style lecturing, goal-line outcomes, t…

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Parent Traps- When Love Needs Limits: Nurturing Without Caving. 55:49

2M ago55:49

55:49

By Cal Farley's

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Parent Traps-The Pitfalls of Lawnmower Parenting 42:44

3M ago42:44

42:44

Send us a text The path to raising capable, resilient adults is paved with skinned knees, spilled milk, and valuable life lessons. But for many modern parents, the urge to protect our children from every discomfort has created a dangerous parenting trend: lawnmower parenting. This episode dives deep into what happens when we mow down every obstacle…

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When Screens Replace Reality: Navigating Technology's Impact on Family Life 32:06

3M ago32:06

32:06

Send us a text We explore the complex relationship between technology and family life, examining how excessive screen time affects children's emotional regulation, mental health, and relationships. Contact: [email protected] To Donate: https://secure.calfarley.org/site/Donation2?3358.donation=form1&df_id=3358&mfc_pref=T To Apply: https://apply…

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Fostering Healthy Digital Habits in Families: The Positive Side of Technology 26:05

3M ago26:05

26:05

Send us a text The Brain-Based Parenting team explores how technology can positively impact families when used with intention and appropriate boundaries. Technology, when used wisely, can be a powerful tool for families. Instant access to information fuels children’s curiosity and learning, while calls, texts, and video chats help family members st…

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New Season Starts September 16th!!!! 0:38

3M ago0:38

0:38

Send us a text Contact: [email protected] To Donate: https://secure.calfarley.org/site/Donation2?3358.donation=form1&df_id=3358&mfc_pref=T To Apply: https://apply.workable.com/cal-farleys-boys-ranch/j/25E1226091/ For More Information about Cal Farley's Boys Ranch: https://www.calfarley.org/ Music: "Shine" -Newsboys CCS License No. 9402…

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Brain Builders: Adventure- The Joy of Unstructured Play 25:48

3M ago25:48

25:48

Send us a text Adventure helps children grow in confidence, creativity, and joy, but it requires a balance between safety and freedom. Kids need a secure foundation and supportive adults to feel safe exploring beyond their comfort zones. Real adventure happens through unstructured play, trying new things, and learning through experience—not screens…

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We're Back!!! New Episodes Return September 16th 0:37

3M ago0:37

0:37

Send us a text Contact: [email protected] To Donate: https://secure.calfarley.org/site/Donation2?3358.donation=form1&df_id=3358&mfc_pref=T To Apply: https://apply.workable.com/cal-farleys-boys-ranch/j/25E1226091/ For More Information about Cal Farley's Boys Ranch: https://www.calfarley.org/ Music: "Shine" -Newsboys CCS License No. 9402…

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Brain Builders: Purpose- How Purpose Shapes Young Lives 21:51

3M ago21:51

21:51

Send us a text Helping children discover a sense of purpose gives them direction, motivation, and a connection to something greater than themselves. It boosts mood, energy, and motivation, especially when they contribute meaningfully to their community. Purpose is built through realistic goals, service, and exploration—especially in supportive envi…

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Brain Builders: Power- Building Self-Control Instead of Control 20:41

4M ago20:41

20:41

Send us a text This episode explores the concept of power in parent-child relationships and how understanding power dynamics can improve interactions with children, especially during crisis moments. We discuss why self-control is the greatest form of power and how sharing power appropriately with children helps them develop into successful adults. …

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Brain Builders: Achievement- Creating a Success Mindset for our Kids 22:12

4M ago22:12

22:12

Send us a text We explore achievement as the third component of our Model of Leadership and Service, discussing how to foster confidence, build competence, and set appropriate goals for children who may identify more with failure than success. Contact: [email protected] To Donate: https://secure.calfarley.org/site/Donation2?3358.donation=form1…

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Brain Builders: Belonging-The Foundation of Healthy Development 24:58

4M ago24:58

24:58

Send us a text We explore the vital concept of belonging in child development and how it interconnects with a sense of safety, confidence, and overall wellbeing. Our expert panel shares personal stories and professional insights about what true belonging means and why humans fundamentally need connection to thrive. Contact: [email protected] T…

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Brain Builders: Safety First- Building Trust and Connection with Your Child 24:21

4M ago24:21

24:21

Send us a text Safety forms the foundation of child development, serving as the brain's primary focus before learning or growth can occur. • Your brain's number one job is to keep you safe, not to think or problem-solve • Children's behaviors often express their feelings of safety or lack thereof Contact: [email protected] To Donate: https://s…

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Brain Builders: The Leadership Model 17:37

5M ago17:37

17:37

Send us a text Cal Farley's Staff Development team introduces their Model of Leadership and Service, a framework focusing on six universal needs that everyone requires: safety, belonging, achievement, power, purpose, and adventure. • Six basic human needs form the foundation for Cal Farley's approach to helping troubled youth • Unconditional and re…

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Unpredictable Caregiving: How Disorganized Attachment Shapes Children 34:10

5M ago34:10

34:10

Send us a text Disorganized attachment develops when children experience unpredictable caregiving, creating a template where they can't anticipate how adults will respond and must constantly adjust their behavior to stay safe. • Disorganized attachment characterized by unpredictable caregiving—loving one day, absent the next, angry another • Childr…

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Anxiety in the Nest: How Overprotection Creates Insecurity 30:05

5M ago30:05

30:05

Send us a text We explore ambivalent attachment, where caregivers' anxiety and overprotection create uncertainty in children, preventing them from developing confidence and decision-making skills. This parenting approach, often seen in helicopter parenting, stems from good intentions but teaches children the world is unsafe. • Ambivalent attachment…

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Kids Who Seem Fine But Aren't: The Truth About Avoidant Attachment 28:58

5M ago28:58

28:58

Send us a text Our ongoing exploration of attachment styles focuses on avoidant attachment, examining how it develops when caregivers consistently fail to respond to children's needs. We unpack why this attachment style, which often makes children appear self-sufficient and well-behaved, actually undermines their emotional development and capacity …

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The Foundation of Trust: How Secure Attachment Shapes Child Development 28:37

6M ago28:37

28:37

Send us a text Secure attachment forms the foundation for a child's healthy development and shapes how they view themselves, others, and the world. We explore the four key attributes caregivers need to foster secure attachment: being present, attentive, attuned, and responsive. • A secure attachment relationship is defined as one that's "free from …

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Attachment Foundations: How Early Bonds Shape Our Lives 22:12

6M ago22:12

22:12

Send us a text Attachment forms the foundation of all human relationships, beginning with our earliest bonds to caregivers and shaping how we connect with others throughout our lives. The quality of care we receive in our first three years creates a template through which we view all future relationships, determining whether we see the world as saf…

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Redefining Discipline: How Supervision, Communication, and Self-Reflection Transform Parenting- Part 4 26:10

6M ago26:10

26:10

Send us a text We finish our series on discipline by focusing on key elements often overlooked: supervision, meaningful conversations, apologies, and counterproductive approaches. These aspects create a comprehensive framework for effective, connection-based discipline. • Supervision connects to discipline by helping catch issues early and modeling…

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Redefining Discipline: The Brain-Based Approach to More Serrious Behavior- Part 3 22:04

6M ago22:04

22:04

Send us a text Discipline isn't about punishment but about teaching, and when it comes to serious behaviors, individualized care becomes even more critical. Balancing increased structure with increased nurture creates the optimal environment for helping children learn from their mistakes and grow. • Each child has different needs, and fair treatmen…

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Redefining Discipline: The Brain-Based Approach to Everyday Parenting Challenges-Part 2 37:07

7M ago37:07

37:07

Send us a text Discipline doesn't have to mean punishment; the most effective approach focuses on understanding the root causes behind less significant behaviors and addressing them with connection rather than correction. • Curiosity is essential in addressing less significant behaviors - take time to understand what's happening beneath the surface…

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Redefining Discipline: From Force to Cooperation- Part 1 19:47

7M ago19:47

19:47

Send us a text Discipline is often misunderstood as punishment, when it's actually about teaching and guiding children through boundaries and relationship. We explore how effective discipline builds cooperation rather than forcing compliance. • Discipline's true purpose is teaching, not punishment or making children feel bad • Force creates only te…

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Empty Nest!!! Now What? Parenting Beyond Age 25 22:10

7M ago22:10

22:10

Send us a text Parenting your adult children after 25 requires shifting from director to supporter as they become truly independent and often more receptive to your wisdom and experience. • Children over 25 are more reflective and insightful about their own experiences • Clear communication is essential when setting boundaries with adult children •…

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They’ve Graduated!!! Now What?: Navigating Ages 18-25 25:40

7M ago25:40

25:40

Send us a text Parenting doesn't end at 18—it evolves into supporting young adults who have adult freedom but still-developing brains through age 25. Contact: [email protected] To Donate: https://secure.calfarley.org/site/Donation2?3358.donation=form1&df_id=3358&mfc_pref=T To Apply: https://apply.workable.com/cal-farleys-boys-ranch/j/25E122609…

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Summer Schedule Announcement 0:37

7M ago0:37

0:37

Send us a text Contact: [email protected] To Donate: https://secure.calfarley.org/site/Donation2?3358.donation=form1&df_id=3358&mfc_pref=T To Apply: https://apply.workable.com/cal-farleys-boys-ranch/j/25E1226091/ For More Information about Cal Farley's Boys Ranch: https://www.calfarley.org/ Music: "Shine" -Newsboys CCS License No. 9402…

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From Kindergarten Backpacks to Graduation Caps and Gowns: A Parenting Reflection 13:15

7M ago13:15

13:15

Send us a text Parenting is a journey of constant evolution that shifts from holding hands to letting go wisely, building a foundation of trust that stretches across any distance. Parenting doesn't end at graduation—it just evolves as your role shifts to meet their changing needs If you would like more information about Cal Farley's Boys Ranch, are…

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Where Kids Find Their Future, Not Their Past 42:22

8M ago42:22

42:22

Send us a text Cal Farley's Boys Ranch is a residential childcare facility serving boys and girls ages 5-18 who need structure and support in a caring environment. This Christ-centered community operates like a small town with its own school, activities, and services, providing children with a fresh start regardless of their background or their fam…

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You Are The Intervention: Building Relationships and Trust With Children 15:45

8M ago15:45

15:45

Send us a text Relationships are our most powerful intervention when helping children who have experienced trauma or instability heal and grow. Every child is wired for connection, asking fundamental questions through their behavior about safety, value, and belonging that can only be answered through consistent, safe relationships. Contact: podcast…

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Bedtime Battles and Brain Health: Creating Sleep Strategies That Work 21:45

8M ago21:45

21:45

Send us a text Sleep is the cornerstone of children's health, affecting brain development, learning ability, and emotional regulation. Our panel of experts dives into why kids struggle to sleep and practical strategies to help them get the rest they need without turning bedtime into a battleground. Contact: [email protected] To Donate: https:/…

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The Brain Loves a Good Beat: Music's Power to Heal and Connect 22:13

8M ago22:13

22:13

Send us a text Music provides powerful access to our brains' emotional centers, making it an exceptional tool for parents to help children regulate emotions and build stronger family connections. Give us a five-star review and tell your friends and family about how much you love Brain-Based Parenting. Until next time, remember you might have to loa…

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How Faith Forms in Unexpected Ways 30:20

9M ago30:20

30:20

Send us a text Faith formation follows a unique path for each person, moving from a "God-haunted feeling" through imagination and believability to deep conviction, with questions playing a crucial role in authentic spiritual growth. • Faith development often begins with an innate sense that there's "something more" beyond what we can physically exp…

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Why This Generation Stopped Believing and How We Can Change That 47:10

9M ago47:10

47:10

Send us a text We begin a new series on faith formation exploring three critical conditions for spiritual development in a disenchanted generation: encounters with nature, the power of community, and the role of fathers. Recent research reveals spirituality provides remarkable protective factors against life's most serious challenges. • Children wh…

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Building Trust Through Respectful Relationships with Your Children 30:47

9M ago30:47

30:47

Send us a text Teaching and showing respect to our children builds their self-worth and models healthy relationships for their future. We explore how parents can better demonstrate and teach respect. • Building trust and respect requires time, consistency, and genuine relationship investment • Taking children's concerns seriously, even when they se…

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Respect: The Foundation of Parent-Child Relationships 20:24

9M ago20:24

20:24

Send us a text Developing respectful relationships with our children requires understanding different perspectives on respect and modeling the behavior we want to see. We explore how parents can navigate the challenges of teaching and demonstrating respect without being overly permissive or authoritarian. • Many teens define respect conditionally—"…

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Addressing Bullies: Practical Strategies for Parents 22:09

10M ago22:09

22:09

Send us a text We dive deep into the issue of childhood bullying, exploring how parents, caregivers, and educators can better support children facing these challenges. With personal stories and expert insights, we highlight practical strategies for fostering a safe environment for kids. • Understanding why children hesitate to report bullying • Per…

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Bullying Unmasked: Recognizing and Addressing Unseen Challenges 24:06

10M ago24:06

24:06

Send us a text Understanding bullying is crucial for parents and educators alike. In our discussion, we dive deep into its varying forms and the impact they have on children. - Types of bullying: Physical, verbal, social, and cyber - The cycle of bullying: Origins often in past trauma - Practical strategies for parents to support children - The imp…

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Practicing Self-Care While Navigating Secondary Trauma 16:23

10M ago16:23

16:23

Send us a text Caregivers often face the hidden challenge of secondary trauma, experiencing emotional distress from supporting those who have endured significant hardships. This episode discusses defining secondary trauma, its signs, and how implementing self-care practices can help caregivers mitigate its effects. • Exploring the nature and defini…

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The Power of Asking for Help?!?!?!? 24:59

10M ago24:59

24:59

Send us a text Ever felt that asking for help might make you seem inadequate? You're not alone. We explore why reaching out for assistance is, in fact, a sign of strength. This episode of Brain-Based Parenting dives into the unique self-care journeys of parents and caregivers and how recognizing personal needs can be challenging amidst daily stress…

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Establishing Self-care for Parents and Caregivers 20:57

10M ago20:57

20:57

Send us a text This episode emphasizes the crucial role of self-care for parents and caregivers, exploring its impact on family dynamics and personal well-being. Through practical tips and shared experiences, we encourage listeners to prioritize their own mental health to foster healthier relationships within the family. • Discusses the importance …

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Exploring Family Values and Childhood Purpose 26:09

11M ago26:09

26:09

Send us a text Purpose transforms the way children perceive their identities and behaviors while solidifying family bonds. This episode explores how parents can help kids discover their strengths, engage in purposeful activities, and create shared missions to enhance empathy and community involvement. • Understanding the significance of purpose in …

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Raising Purpose Driven Kids Through Family Responsibilities 21:04

11M ago21:04

21:04

Send us a text Join us as we explore how a well-defined sense of purpose is not just inherent, but cultivated from a young age. We reflect on the significant roles that chores and family contributions played in our own youth, fostering a sense of belonging and duty. Our conversation underscores the importance of involving children in purposeful act…