In this deeply personal episode, parent coach and teen communication expert Kirsten Cobabe reveals what's really behind the distance between parents and their teens—and how to close it.
Growing up has never been noisier. Between algorithmic feeds, curated identities, and emotional exhaustion, today's teens are navigating territory most parents never imagined. But beneath the mood swings, silence, and defiance lies something simpler: a longing to be truly seen.
Kristen offers a compassionate roadmap for anyone raising, mentoring, or trying to reach the next generation—not through more rules or surveillance, but through radical presence and hard-earned trust.
Key Timestamps:
00:00 – Why modern parenting feels harder than ever
04:32 – The emotional cost of growing up online
09:50 – How disconnection shows up in teen behavior
14:18 – Creating safety for real conversations
18:44 – The difference between control and connection
24:09 – Why teens rebel—and what they’re actually asking for
31:37 – Parenting from empathy instead of fear
38:42 – Setting healthy boundaries without shame
45:11 – Rebuilding trust when communication breaks down51:54 – How parents can model emotional honesty
59:36 – The myth of the “perfect parent”
1:04:22 – Teaching accountability with compassion
1:09:33 – Helping teens navigate identity and self-worth
1:15:40 – The importance of community and shared values
1:21:00 – Kristine’s final message to parents and mentors
“Teens aren’t looking for perfect parents. They’re looking for real ones—people who can stay when things get hard and listen when it’s uncomfortable.” - Kristen Cobabe
Kirsten's Socials:
Website: https://www.kirstencobabe.com
Instagram: @kirstencobabe
YouTube: @KirstenCobabe
Follow The Luminist Podcast on social media for more updates and behind-the-scenes content:
Check our Website: https://luminism.foundation
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theluministpodcast
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theluministpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theluministpodcast