#230: Relationally Connect with Your Kids (Feat. Joe Martin)

Season #5

Dr. Joe Martin joins the podcast to share and inspire families. He grew up in an impoverished area, born to a young mother, and didn’t plan on going to college. He was the first in his family to graduate from high school.  

He graduated college at age 20 and became a professor at age 24. He had his PHD by the time he was 28. He said this not to brag but to say, “no one can determine your future but you.”  

His surroundings and upbringing tried to label him as a future criminal, athlete, or rapper. He saw 6 of his kids die before he reached the age of 18. The “make it” mentality of his childhood caused him to choose education and desire to make a life for himself outside his broken neighborhood.  

His childhood can be summed up in 3 words: desperation, not inspiration.  

Don and Dr. Joe discuss the hard truths about raising and connecting with the kids of this generation. Dr. Joe explains how connection comes through understanding pain, connecting with them, and finding a way to bring hope and help.  

Main points from the podcast:

  • Parents are called to help their child just take the next step. 
  • How all people are the same and we can connect through our pain/hurts.
  • Helping kids through crisis.
  • Processing God’s character amidst everyday trauma.

“Getting to the root of behavior creates connection with any relationship.”- Joe 

3 Simple Steps for Connection:

  1. Understand the hurt first  
  2. Give them hope 
  3. Find a way to help  

Listen and share the podcast with anyone you know who needs to hear this powerful, challenging, and encouraging message!  

Podcast Resources: