Celebrate Kids Podcast with Dr. Kathy

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids Podcast, Wayne Stender and Dr. Kathy Koch explore psychologist Mitch Prinstein's research on the two types of popularity—likability and status. Together, they discuss why likability leads to healthy belonging while status often leaves kids empty and isolated. Dr. Kathy connects these insights to her Five to Thrive model, showing how belonging shapes identity and why character qualities like compassion, faithfulness, and hospitality help kids form lasting friendships. Wayne ties it to the story of Jehoiada and young King Joash in 2 Chronicles 23, reminding parents that true belonging is found not in surface approval but in covenant faithfulness to God.

What does it really mean for a child to be "successful"? In this episode of Facing the Dark, Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender explore research on sibling success and unpack why optimism, motivation, learning, coaching, and, most importantly, wisdom and resilience shape kids for long-term flourishing. Together, they challenge achievement-based definitions of success and offer a Christ-centered vision that emphasizes character, growth, and learning how to apply truth in everyday life

Is "dry texting" just efficient, or is it quietly shaping how kids learn to relate? In this Facing the Dark episode, Wayne and Dr. Kathy unpack the growing habit of one-word replies and minimal conversation, exploring how communication shortcuts can weaken relational skills, respect, and identity formation. Together they explain when brief responses are appropriate, when they're harmful, and how parents can intentionally model meaningful conversation at home. This episode equips families to help kids build empathy, curiosity, and confidence through real dialogue, both on screens and face to face.

Why are so many young adults trusting social media over doctors, and what does that mean for how kids form wisdom? In this Facing the Dark episode, Wayne and Dr. Kathy examine new global research revealing Gen Z's growing reliance on peer-driven and influencer-based information. Together, they explore the difference between knowledge and wisdom, why algorithms reward immediacy over discernment, and how parents can teach kids to seek truth deeply rather than settle for the first answer. Rooted in Scripture and practical mentoring, this conversation equips families to help kids hunger for understanding, cultivate discernment, and pursue a truly flourishing life grounded in Christ—not clicks.

Should parents teach kids to be defiant? In this Facing the Dark episode, Wayne and Dr. Kathy respond to a growing cultural narrative that suggests children need to practice defiance in order to become confident, assertive adults. Together they unpack the difference between healthy self-advocacy and arrogant rebellion, explaining why confidence doesn't come from saying "no" loudly, but from knowing when and how to speak with wisdom. Drawing on biblical insight, the Five Core Needs, and real parenting examples, this conversation helps parents guide kids toward courage, discernment, and self-efficacy rooted in truth, not impulse.