Challenging Teenage Sons

In this episode, Dr. Mark Schillinger sits down with six Young Men's Ultimate Weekend (YMUW) graduates, ranging in age from high school to their early 30s, to talk honestly about who they were before the weekend, what was hard to face about themselves while they were there, and how their lives shifted after they graduated. The YMUW grads discuss: What teen boys are actually afraid of when they think about growing up Why the hardest part of YMUW isn't physical, it's emotional How the program changed parent-son relationships, sometimes dramatically What a real rite of passage does that therapy alone often can't Why the obstacle course, the sweat lodge, and even the joke circles matter more than they sound. If you're a parent wondering whether your son is ready for adulthood, or worried he's not, this conversation will hit close to home. If you're a young man sitting on the fence about YMUW, listen to the guys who were exactly where you are. ℹ️ Learn More about the Young Men's Ultimate Weekend, a Modern Day Rite-of-Passage 🔥Registration Open for June 11-14, 2026 and August 21-23, 2026 | https://go.ymuw.org/ *** More Resources *** On-demand and live, online workshops for teenagers and young men are available here: https://cts.drmarkmentor.com/workshops For a complimentary 20-minute consultation with Dr. Mark or for more information about his parent coaching and mentoring young men, go to https://cts.drmarkmentor.com/ *** About Dr. Mark Schillinger *** Dr. Mark Schillinger's work has been featured on the CNN show "This is Life with Lisa Ling." These videos are designed to help parents more effectively "challenge" or motivate their teenage sons to become more responsible and resilient. These videos offer straightforward advice so parents can minimize conflict and maximize cooperation with their sons – especially those young men who are distracted by their digital devices. For more information, visit https://www.challengingteenagesons.com *** Connect with Dr. Mark *** Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/challenging.teenage.sons Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/challengingteenagesons/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-mark-schillinger-family-mentor-and-community-leader-735585a/

Does your teenager constantly tell you "it's not fair"? Do you find yourself offering bigger and bigger rewards just to get them to take out the garbage? In this episode, Dr. Mark Schillinger breaks down why bribes and rewards actually backfire with teens, and shares the mentoring approach that builds real responsibility and self-respect. You'll learn how to stop negotiating with your "house lawyer" and start raising a young person who takes ownership of their life. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why "it's not fair" is actually a learning opportunity, not a problem to solve The difference between extrinsic rewards (bribes) and intrinsic motivation How to use the "Both/And" principle when your teen does something right AND wrong Why most of life is unfair or neutral, and how to prepare your teen for this reality The 5 C's of calm, confident communication that won't get derailed Resources Mentioned Punished by Rewards by Alfie Kohn Young Men's Ultimate Weekend https://ymuw.org More Resources On-demand and live, online workshops for teenagers and young men are available here: https://cts.drmarkmentor.com/workshops Free Parents' Support Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/markstipsforparents For a complimentary 20-minute consultation with Dr. Mark or for more information about his parent coaching and mentoring young men, go to https://cts.drmarkmentor.com About Dr. Mark Schillinger Dr. Mark Schillinger's work has been featured on the CNN show "This is Life with Lisa Ling." These videos are designed to help parents more effectively "challenge" or motivate their teenage sons to become more responsible and resilient. These videos offer straightforward advice so parents can minimize conflict and maximize cooperation with their sons – especially those young men who are distracted by their digital devices. For more information, visit https://www.challengingteenagesons.com Connect with Dr. Mark Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/challenging.teenage.sons Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/challengingteenagesons/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-mark-schillinger-family-mentor-and-community-leader-735585a/

Struggling to get your teenage son to cooperate? You're not alone, and it's harder now than ever before. In this episode, Dr. Mark Schillinger breaks down why modern teens resist helping at home and what you can do about it. In This Episode, You'll Discover: The historical shift that took cooperation out of our kids' DNA, from tribal living through the educational revolution to today's smartphone addiction Why treating consequences as punishments pushes your teen further away (and what to do instead) The critical difference between "right," "not right," and "wrong" behaviors, and how this distinction saves your energy and protects your relationship How to stay calm when giving consequences using brain science communication techniques The power of intelligent questions Why mentors at Young Men's Ultimate Weekend get teens to open up when parents can't One simple communication tip that transforms resistant teens into cooperative young men Dr. Mark shares real examples from 26 years of mentoring families and running rite of passage camps for boys ages 13-20. This isn't about getting your son to obey. It's about building the kind of relationship where cooperation happens naturally. Resources Mentioned: Virtues & Values Worksheet (email info@challengingteenagesons.com for your free copy) Young Men's Ultimate Weekend: Rite of passage initiation camp for ages 13-20: https://ymuw.org Daily Support for Parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/markstipsforparents Resources On-demand and live, online workshops for teenagers and young men are available here: https://cts.drmarkmentor.com/workshops For a complimentary 20-minute consultation with Dr. Mark or for more information about his parent coaching and mentoring young men, go to https://cts.drmarkmentor.com About Dr. Mark Schillinger Dr. Mark Schillinger's work has been featured on the CNN show "This is Life with Lisa Ling." These videos are designed to help parents more effectively "challenge" or motivate their teenage sons to become more responsible and resilient. These videos offer straightforward advice so parents can minimize conflict and maximize cooperation with their sons – especially those young men who are distracted by their digital devices. For more information, visit https://www.challengingteenagesons.com Connect with Dr. Mark Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/challenging.teenage.sons Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/challengingteenagesons LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-mark-schillinger-family-mentor-and-community-leader-735585a/

Tired of yelling at your teenager in the heat of the moment? You're not alone. Most parents confuse punishment with consequences, and their teens know it. In this episode, Dr. Mark Schillinger breaks down the critical difference between reactive punishment (made up when you're angry) and structured consequences (teaching tools built into reality itself). He shares the exact framework he's used with thousands of young men at The Young Men's Ultimate Weekend to help teens understand accountability without the power struggles. You'll discover why "gimme your phone" and "you're grounded" backfire, how to explain consequences in a way your teen actually respects, and the virtue-based system that makes consequences feel fair instead of punitive. If you're exhausted from fighting with your son over the same issues, this framework will change how your family operates. *** Key Takeaways *** • The one thing that turns a consequence into a punishment (and why teens reject it) • How to explain consequences so your teen understands they're not made up by you • The Virtues, Values & Behaviors model that stops the guessing game • Why rewards are a trap (and what works better) • The simple phrase that reframes every consequence conversation *** Resources Mentioned *** • Free Virtues & Values worksheet: email info@challengingteenagesons.com • Learn more about The Young Men's Ultimate Weekend at https://www.ymuw.org It's never too late to move your family in the right direction. You just need a way that works. *** More Resources *** On-demand and live, online workshops for teenagers and young men are available here: https://cts.drmarkmentor.com/workshops For a complimentary 20-minute consultation with Dr. Mark or for more information about his parent coaching and mentoring young men, go to https://cts.drmarkmentor.com/ *** About Dr. Mark Schillinger *** Dr. Mark Schillinger's work has been featured on the CNN show "This is Life with Lisa Ling." These videos are designed to help parents more effectively "challenge" or motivate their teenage sons to become more responsible and resilient. These videos offer straightforward advice so parents can minimize conflict and maximize cooperation with their sons – especially those young men who are distracted by their digital devices. For more information, visit https://www.challengingteenagesons.com *** Connect with Dr. Mark *** Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/challenging.teenage.sons Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/challengingteenagesons/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-mark-schillinger-family-mentor-and-community-leader-735585a/

In this powerful episode of Challenging Teenage Sons, Dr. Mark Schillinger reveals how artificial intelligence (AI) is changing family dynamics — and what parents must do now to prevent technology from dividing their family. Are your teens more connected to their devices than to you? Are arguments about screen time, gaming, or social media pulling your family apart? Discover practical strategies for parents to strengthen family unity, improve communication, and raise resilient young men in the age of AI. In this episode: • Why AI is a threat to family connection • How testosterone and dopamine make your son defiant • The forgotten ancient practices that will unite your family • How healthy families can change the world Don't let technology raise your kids for you! ** Resources for Parents and Young Men ** On-demand and live, online workshops for teenagers and young men are available here: https://cts.drmarkmentor.com/workshops For a complimentary 20-minute consultation with Dr. Mark or for more information about his parent coaching and mentoring young men, go to https://cts.drmarkmentor.com/ *** About Dr. Mark Schillinger *** Dr. Mark Schillinger's work has been featured on the CNN show "This is Life with Lisa Ling." These videos are designed to help parents more effectively "challenge" or motivate their teenage sons to become more responsible and resilient. This podcast offers straightforward advice so parents can minimize conflict and maximize cooperation with their sons – especially those young men who are distracted by their digital devices. For more information, visit https://www.challengingteenagesons.com *** Connect with Dr. Mark *** Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/challenging.teenage.sons Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/challengingteenagesons/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-mark-schillinger-family-mentor-and-community-leader-735585a/

In this episode of the Challenging Teenage Sons podcast, Dr. Mark Schillinger shares actionable strategies for parents to help their sons develop the three essential traits every young man needs: respect, responsibility, and resilience. Whether your teenage son is struggling with defiance, lack of motivation, or poor decision-making, Dr. Schillinger offers practical advice to guide him towards success and positive change. Dr. Schillinger, a family mentor and founder of The Young Men's Ultimate Weekend, brings decades of experience in helping parents foster better communication and understanding with their sons. Learn how to teach your teen to respect himself and others, take responsibility for his actions, and build the resilience needed to overcome life's challenges. If you're a parent looking for proven ways to raise a confident, responsible young man, this episode is for you. For a complimentary 20-minute consultation with Dr. Mark or for more information about his parent coaching and mentoring young men, go to https://cts.drmarkmentor.com . *** About Dr. Mark Schillinger *** Dr. Mark Schillinger's work has been featured on the CNN show "This is Life with Lisa Ling." These videos are designed to help parents more effectively "challenge" or motivate their teenage sons to become more responsible and resilient. These videos offer straightforward advice so parents can minimize conflict and maximize cooperation with their sons – especially those young men who are distracted by their digital devices. For more information, visit https://www.challengingteenagesons.com *** Connect with Dr. Mark *** Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/challenging.teenage.sons Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/challengingteenagesons/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-mark-schillinger-family-mentor-and-community-leader-735585a/

Does your teenage son struggle with confidence, resilience, or facing life's challenges head-on? In this episode of the Challenging Teenage Sons Podcast, Dr. Mark Schillinger, founder of The Young Men's Ultimate Weekend, challenges the idea that some teens are "special cases" who can't handle real-world stressors. Dr. Schillinger shares powerful insights on why treating your son as a "special case" may be holding him back and how the right experiences can help him build resilience, self-confidence, and independence. Discover practical advice on how to support your son through his neurodivergent challenges, emotional traumas, or everyday struggles without coddling or overprotecting him. What You'll Learn: Why no young man is a "special case" The importance of rites of passage like The Young Men's Ultimate Weekend How to help your son build resilience and adapt to life's challenges The benefits of letting your son face discomfort and grow from it Real stories of teens overcoming trauma and thriving Watch now to learn how to empower your son to become a strong, independent young man! If you're ready to challenge the way you parent and support your son's growth, hit play. Keywords: teenage sons, parenting tips, resilience in teens, challenging teenagers, raising boys, Dr. Mark Schillinger, Young Men's Ultimate Weekend, rites of passage, overcoming trauma, teenage resilience, parenting neurodivergent kids, how to raise resilient kids, parenting advice, teen confidence, mental health in teens. For a complimentary 20-minute consultation with Dr. Mark or for more information about his parent coaching and mentoring young men, go to https://cts.drmarkmentor.com/ *** About Dr. Mark Schillinger *** Dr. Mark Schillinger's work has been featured on the CNN show "This is Life with Lisa Ling." These videos are designed to help parents more effectively "challenge" or motivate their teenage sons to become more responsible and resilient. These videos offer straightforward advice so parents can minimize conflict and maximize cooperation with their sons – especially those young men who are distracted by their digital devices. For more information, visit https://www.challengingteenagesons.com *** Connect with Dr. Mark *** Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/challenging.teenage.sons Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/challengingteenagesons/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-mark-schillinger-family-mentor-and-community-leader-735585a/

Are you struggling with a son who seems disinterested, isolated, and resistant to responsibility? Through his 25 years of mentoring parents and their sons, Dr. Mark Schillinger has witnessed the pervasive influence of digital addiction, leading young men into a state of extended childhood. But there's hope. Dr. Schillinger offers practical insights and actionable strategies to empower parents to become effective mentors, guiding their sons towards independence and maturity. Discover how to transition from the old ways of parenting to the new ways parents must adapt in order to navigate their son through the transition into this era of technological dominance. Don't let time slip away. Join Dr. Mark Schillinger on this transformative journey and take the first step towards reclaiming your son's future. Sign up for a complimentary consultation at https://cts.drmarkmentor.com/

Struggling with disciplining your teenage son? Dr. Mark Schillinger, founder of the Young Men's Ultimate Weekend and Challenging Teenage Sons, shares his expert advice in this must-watch video for parents. Discover the difference between punishments and consequences, and learn how to effectively use them to improve your teen's behavior. Young Men's Ultimate Weekend https://www.ymuw.org For a complimentary 20-minute consultation with Dr. Mark or for more information about his parent coaching and mentoring young men, go to https://cts.drmarkmentor.com/ Dr. Mark Schillinger's work has been featured on the CNN show "This is Life with Lisa Ling." These videos are designed to help parents more effectively "challenge" or motivate their teenage sons to become more responsible and resilient. These videos offer straightforward advice so parents can minimize conflict and maximize cooperation with their sons – especially those young men who are distracted by their digital devices. For more information, visit https://www.challengingteenagesons.com

Unfortunately, high schools don't prepare our teens for the real demands of adulthood, including self-regulation, personal growth and life management skills. When young men don't know how to handle the parts of life that are unfair, uncomfortable and uncertain, they act out their frustration with inappropriate, immature behaviors. In this podcast, Dr. Mark talks about the need for young men to become the CEO - "Chief Energy Officer" - of their lives so that they can successfully navigate the challenges that life will continually throw at them. For a complimentary 20-minute consultation with Dr. Mark or for more information about his parent coaching and mentoring young men, go to https://cts.drmarkmentor.com/. *** About Dr. Mark Schillinger *** Dr. Mark Schillinger's work has been featured on the CNN show "This is Life with Lisa Ling." These videos are designed to help parents more effectively "challenge" or motivate their teenage sons to become more responsible and resilient. These videos offer straightforward advice so parents can minimize conflict and maximize cooperation with their sons – especially those young men distracted by their digital devices. For more information, visit https://www.challengingteenagesons.com/home *** Connect with Dr. Mark *** Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/challenging.teenage.sons Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/challengingteenagesons/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-mark-schillinger-family-mentor-and-community-leader-735585a/

Dr. Mark reveals how he carefully leads young men to become more loyal to their parents. He does so by challenging them to see how their parents are consistently devoted to them based on the way young men define loyalty. When young men realize that they can both disagree with their parents and behave loyally, everyone can enjoy more mature and caring relationships. For a complimentary 20-minute consultation with Dr. Mark or for more information about his parent coaching and mentoring young men, go to https://cts.drmarkmentor.com/ *** About Dr. Mark Schillinger *** Dr. Mark Schillinger's work has been featured on the CNN show "This is Life with Lisa Ling." These videos are designed to help parents more effectively "challenge" or motivate their teenage sons to become more responsible and resilient. These videos offer straightforward advice so parents can minimize conflict and maximize cooperation with their sons – especially those young men distracted by their digital devices. For more information, visit https://www.challengingteenagesons.com *** Connect with Dr. Mark *** Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/challenging.teenage.sons Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/challengingteenagesons/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-mark-schillinger-family-mentor-and-community-leader-735585a/

Teen brains are fascinated by the charm they experience from the constant participation and instant gratification that electronic devices offer. If your son is becoming overly reliant on his devices, it's preventing him from tapping into his natural teen instinct to confidently experience what it takes to become more physically, emotionally, and financially independent. Parents need to have a way, or method, to help everyone in the home successfully transition from the past ways of caring and cooperating with each other to the new ways of being together. For a complimentary 20-minute consultation with Dr. Mark or for more information about his parent coaching and mentoring young men, go to https://cts.drmarkmentor.com/ *** About Dr. Mark Schillinger *** Dr. Mark Schillinger's work has been featured on the CNN show "This is Life with Lisa Ling." These videos are designed to help parents more effectively "challenge" or motivate their teenage sons to become more responsible and resilient. These videos offer straightforward advice so parents can minimize conflict and maximize cooperation with their sons – especially those young men distracted by their digital devices. For more information, visit https://www.challengingteenagesons.com *** Connect with Dr. Mark *** Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/challenging.teenage.sons Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/challengingteenagesons/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/markschillinger LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-mark-schillinger-family-mentor-and-community-leader-735585a/