IMPACT: Parenting with Perspective

Latest Episodes:

Stop Trying to Fix Your Teen — Fix This Instead Oct 09, 2025

Show notes

Most parents secretly wish their teen would just change — listen more, argue less, clean up, do homework, be respectful, etc.

But here’s the truth:
👉 You can’t change your teen.
👉 You can only change you.

In this episode, Ben and Cortni unpack one of the most powerful parenting principles of all time — “Be the change you want to see.”

You’ll learn:

Why trying to “fix” your teen backfires every time
How to stop giving away your power
The difference between victim and hero parenting
Why awareness always comes before choice
How real change happens from the roots up, not the fruit down 🍑

If you’ve ever felt frustrated, powerless, or stuck in a cycle of conflict with your teen… this episode will help you reclaim your peace, your power, and your purpose as a parent.

🎧 Listen now and start being the change you want to see.

Are You Caught in the Parent Trap?

Discover the hidden patterns that are keeping you stuck—and how to break free.

Take this quick (and eye-opening) quiz to uncover which common parenting trap you’re falling into with your teen.
Get a personalized roadmap to help you parent with more clarity, confidence, and connection—starting today.

https://benpughcoaching.com/parent-trap-quiz

Why Your Teen’s Confidence Crumbles (and How to Fix It) Oct 02, 2025

Show notes

"Send Ben a text"

In this episode, I break down the difference between false confidence—the kind that’s tied to wins, grades, or outside approval—and foundational confidence—the kind built on preparation, effort, and real experience.

Many teens (and parents) ride the emotional rollercoaster of false confidence. One good play or test score, and they’re on top of the world. One mistake, and it all crashes down. The problem? Mindset and “positive thinking” alone can’t hold up under pressure.

True, lasting confidence comes from stacking bricks—daily actions, preparation, and choices that build a solid foundation over time.

What You’ll Learn:

The key differences between false and foundational confidence
Why mindset alone isn’t enough (and what’s missing)
How athletes can build confidence that won’t crumble under pressure
Simple ways parents can model and build lasting confidence at home
How to start “stacking bricks” today—one action at a time

Confidence isn’t luck. It’s built, brick by brick.

Are You Caught in the Parent Trap?

Discover the hidden patterns that are keeping you stuck—and how to break free.

https://benpughcoaching.com/parent-trap-quiz

Why ‘Good vs. Bad Parenting’ Is a Dangerous Myth Sep 25, 2025

Show notes

"Send Ben a text"

Do you ever wonder if you’re a “good” parent… or fear that you might be a “bad” one? You’re not alone. Many parents live under the weight of these labels, and it can feel heavy and confusing.

In this episode, Ben Pugh explains why “good vs. bad parenting” is a dangerous myth. These labels pull you into comparison, chasing approval, and trying to prove yourself to others. The truth is, parenting isn’t about being “good” or “bad.” It’s about being intentional, living your values, and connecting with your teen.

You’ll learn how to shift your focus from what you can’t control—like your teen’s grades or behavior—to what you can control, like your love, confidence, and curiosity. Stop worrying about approval, and start becoming the parent of your dreams.

Are You Caught in the Parent Trap?

Discover the hidden patterns that are keeping you stuck—and how to break free.

https://benpughcoaching.com/parent-trap-quiz

This is the ONE Thing to Help Your Teen With Resilience Sep 18, 2025

Show notes

"Send Ben a text"

Is your teen struggling? Do you ever wonder how to help them bounce back?

In this episode, I share the ONE thing that makes the biggest difference in building resilience. You’ll hear real stories from my own life, from parents I’ve worked with, and from teens who have faced tough moments.

We’ll talk about:

Why struggle is not failure but growth
How your response shapes your teen’s resilience
The simple shift that helps your teen handle hard things

You don’t have to fix your teen. You can model resilience and show them how to grow through challenges.

Tune in and discover how this ONE thing can help your teen become stronger and more confident.

Are You Caught in the Parent Trap?

Discover the hidden patterns that are keeping you stuck—and how to break free.

https://benpughcoaching.com/parent-trap-quiz

From Phillies Karen to Parenting Power: The Lesson Everyone Missed Sep 11, 2025

Show notes

"Send Ben a text"

What does a viral “Phillies Karen” baseball moment have to do with your parenting? More than you think.

In this episode, I break down the Phillies Karen story—not to pile on or cancel—but to show you how outrage, mob mentality, and cancel culture are distractions that rob you of real parenting power.

You’ll learn:

Why cancel culture is contagious (and so is compassion)
How herd mentality creeps into your parenting without you realizing
What the Phillies dad’s choice actually teaches us about conflict, love, and character
Simple questions you can ask yourself to rise above outrage and parent with confidence

This isn’t about judging strangers online—it’s about reflecting inward and becoming the parent your teen needs most.

👉 Parenting gets easier (and more fun) when you stop trying to fix others and start focusing on who you want to be.

Are You Caught in the Parent Trap?

Discover the hidden patterns that are keeping you stuck—and how to break free.

https://benpughcoaching.com/parent-trap-quiz

Your Teen Sees the Real You—So Why Hide Behind Fake Parenting? Sep 04, 2025

Show notes

"Send Ben a text"

Your teen knows when you’re being real… and when you’re not.

In this episode, Ben and Cortni talk about “fake parenting” and why it pushes teens away. Teens don’t need a perfect parent. They need the real you.

You’ll learn:

Why fake parenting kills connection
How to create a 10-word vision statement to guide you
Why focusing on what you want works better than focusing on what you don’t want
A simple gratitude hack that makes parenting easier

When you show up as your true self, your teen feels safe, loved, and ready to connect.

👉 Want help becoming the parent you want to be? Book your free mini session at benpughcoaching.com/mini

Are You Caught in the Parent Trap?

Discover the hidden patterns that are keeping you stuck—and how to break free.

https://benpughcoaching.com/parent-trap-quiz

How to Simplify Parenting by Fixing Just Two Problems Aug 28, 2025

Show notes

"Send Ben a text"

How to Simplify Parenting by Fixing Only Two Problems

Parenting often feels overwhelming—like you’ve got 117 things to fix at once. But what if the secret to real change wasn’t fixing everything… but focusing on just two?

In this episode, Ben shares how a lesson from football and his time as a high school principal transformed into a powerful parenting principle. You’ll learn how to:

Identify the two core problems driving most of the chaos at home
Stop wasting energy trying to fix all 117 little issues
Empower your teen by involving them in finding solutions
Make parenting simpler, less stressful, and way more effective

Listen now and discover how simplifying your focus can transform your family.

Are You Caught in the Parent Trap?

Discover the hidden patterns that are keeping you stuck—and how to break free.

https://benpughcoaching.com/parent-trap-quiz

Stop Parenting for Approval—Your Teen Needs the Real You Aug 21, 2025

Show notes

"Send Ben a text"

Do you ever catch yourself parenting for the approval of others—your neighbors, your parents, or even your teen? The truth is, people-pleasing doesn’t build connection. It creates distance.

In this episode, Ben and Cortni unpack why parents often hide behind “masks” of who they think they should be—and how that keeps them from real connection with their teens. You’ll hear powerful stories from sports, parenting, and coaching that reveal why authenticity always wins.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

Why people-pleasing hurts your relationship with your teen
How to recognize when you’re parenting for approval
The role of identity in becoming the parent you want to be
A simple tool (10-word vision statement) to guide you back to your real self
How being authentic inspires your teen to do the same

Parenting gets easier when you stop trying to be “perfect” and start being the real you. Listen in and discover how to connect more deeply with your teen today.

Are You Caught in the Parent Trap?

Discover the hidden patterns that are keeping you stuck—and how to break free.

https://benpughcoaching.com/parent-trap-quiz

Busy But Not Burned Out: Why Overwhelm Is Optional Aug 14, 2025

Show notes

"Send Ben a text"

Do you ever feel like you’re running on empty?
Like life is just go, go, go — and you’re burning out?

In this episode, Ben shares how he went from stressed and overwhelmed to calm and confident. You’ll learn why overwhelm is a choice, and how to stop wearing busyness like a badge of honor.

Get ready for simple tips that will help you slow down, be present, and enjoy your life — even when it’s full.

🎧 Listen now and start feeling less stressed today.

Are You Caught in the Parent Trap?

Discover the hidden patterns that are keeping you stuck—and how to break free.

https://benpughcoaching.com/parent-trap-quiz

One Thing Will Help Your Teen Perform Under Pressure Aug 07, 2025

Show notes

"Send Ben a text"

Is your teen nervous when it really matters? Do they freeze, overthink, or doubt themselves when the pressure’s on?

In this episode, I’ll share the one powerful thing that can help your teen show up with confidence — even in high-stress moments. Whether they’re an athlete, artist, or academic, this tool will help them stop focusing on what they can’t control and start performing like the person they want to be.

This one shift changed everything for a teen athlete I coach. And it can help your teen too.

Are You Caught in the Parent Trap?

Discover the hidden patterns that are keeping you stuck—and how to break free.

https://benpughcoaching.com/parent-trap-quiz