Hi everybody,

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Keep on truckin’!

Todd+Cathy

Time Stamps

(00:00:00) ZenCon 25 Announcement

(00:08:06) 13 Yr Old Son Not Feeling

(00:26:00) 17 Year Old Son Dating

(00:43:35) 19 Year Old Daughter with Friend Drama

Resources

MenLiving

Todd Adams Coaching For Guys

AI Summary

Quick recap

The team discussed personal and professional topics, including embracing imperfections, open communication, and relationship challenges. They announced their annual conference, Zencon 25, focusing on real conversations and communication with young adults. The meeting also addressed concerns about monitoring children’s behavior and navigating complex relationships as they approach adulthood.

Summary

Embracing Imperfections and Rescheduling Meeting

Todd, Matt, and Millie discussed embracing life’s imperfections, like enjoying caffeine or cake. They also rescheduled a meeting due to Duffy’s situation. The team had technical issues with the meeting link but resolved it. They debated reheating preferences, with Todd disliking reheated fries, Millie enjoying leftovers, and Matt defending air fryers for reheating. Todd shared his air fryer experiences and preference for microwaving pasta and vegetarian chili.

Zencon 25: Fostering Real Conversations and Mentorship

Todd announced the launch of their annual conference, Zencon 25, with the theme “Good Talk” focusing on real conversations and communication with daughters aged 12 to 25. The conference will feature a performance by Glen from Toad, the Wet Sprocket, and attendees can purchase tickets now. Todd also discussed the various speakers and topics, including a pre-conference workshop on slowing down, a discussion on healthy masculinity, and a focus on mentorship. Millie suggested emphasizing the conference’s last year status in marketing to attract more attendees. Cara expressed concerns about her 13-year-old son not expressing his emotions, and Todd suggested she could talk to him more about his feelings.

Emotional Expression and Societal Expectations

Todd discussed the emotional suppression and societal expectations faced by a young boy, emphasizing the importance of normalizing and encouraging emotional expression. He shared his own journey with emotional acceptance and the value of surrounding oneself with supportive people. Cara agreed with Todd’s suggestions and expressed her commitment to open communication with her son. Todd also highlighted the need for balance, communication, and self-reflection in his relationship with his partner.

Parental Concerns and Teen Dating Boundaries

Malini expressed concerns about her 17-year-old son dating a girl whose parents do not allow her to speak or date without their knowledge. Malini and her husband have advised their son to not be at the girl’s house when her parents are not home. Todd suggested that while they can set boundaries, they cannot control their son’s actions or decisions. He emphasized the importance of open communication and ensuring their son has access to necessary information, such as protection and pregnancy prevention. Todd also noted that their son’s willingness to share information with them is a positive sign.

Addressing Concerns and Cultural Implications

Malini and Todd discussed concerns about a young man’s behavior, particularly in relation to a female friend. Malini expressed her worry about the young man’s actions and the potential cultural implications, as well as her husband’s differing perspective. Todd suggested that the young man should face consequences if he were to engage in any problematic behavior, rather than Malini constantly monitoring his activities. Todd also recommended that Malini continue to educate the young man about cultural aspects and boundaries, while avoiding excessive stress through constant monitoring.

Navigating Parental Concerns and Relationships

Todd and Malini discussed the challenges of monitoring their son’s activities as he approaches adulthood. Malini expressed concerns about her son’s relationship with his girlfriend and the potential for conflict with her parents. Todd suggested that Malini should have a conversation with her son about his plans and expectations for the future, and emphasized the importance of empathy and understanding in navigating these complex relationships. The team also discussed the need for creative ways to stay connected with their children while maintaining boundaries and trust.

Discussing College Roommate Issues and Housing Plans

karni discussed her daughter’s strained relationship with her roommate at college, which karni believes is due to the roommate’s fear of being left out of next year’s off-campus housing plans. karni advised her daughter to focus on her own needs and not try to fix the situation. Todd, a guest, agreed with karni’s advice and reassured her that there will always be a place for her daughter to live. Todd also shared a personal issue involving a friend’s relationship and potential housing situation, advising karni to trust her friend to make her own decisions. The conversation ended with Todd thanking everyone for their participation and mentioning that he would share information about buying tickets to a conference via email.