What Really Matters

Parenting + Kids

Aug 6

🎉 A Special Conversation: Teen Life, Faith, Step Families & Health with My Amazing Stepdaughter Teagan

Today is a special one — because it's not just another podcast episode, it's a celebration. My beautiful stepdaughter Teagan turns 15 today, and I couldn’t be more proud of the young woman she’s becoming.

To mark the occasion, we sat down for a heartfelt conversation on the podcast, and it was so full of wisdom, laughter, and real talk that I had to turn it into a blog post too.

Because here’s the thing: Teen life is not what it used to be. The pressures, the pace, and the constant noise of modern culture can be overwhelming. And when you add in the dynamics of a blended family and living between two very different homes? That’s a lot for anyone — let alone a teenager.

But Teagan? She’s navigating it with grace, honesty, and a deepening sense of who she is.

💬 What We Talked About

Our conversation touched on so many important topics that affect teens — and the parents and stepparents walking alongside them. Here are a few of the highlights:

✨ Navigating Two Homes

Teagan opened up about what it’s like to transition between two different households and how she’s learned to adapt without losing her sense of self. It’s not always easy, but she shared some incredible insight into what helps her feel secure and supported.

🙏 Growing in Faith

Faith has been a grounding part of our home life, and it was beautiful to hear how it’s becoming a part of her life, too. We talked about the choice she has made to get confirmed this fall and that seeing faith as something to always lean on is what she wants for her life.

💛 Mental & Physical Health

We dove into how she manages stress, stays connected to her body, and the role essential oils and natural tools have played in helping her create balance. (Proud coach & stepmom moment!)

👂 What Teens Really Need From Us

One of the most powerful parts of our conversation? When Teagan shared what she believes teens really want and need from the adults in their lives —she mentions that having structure in the home helps her feel safe and that it has helped combat anxieties.

💡 Why This Conversation Matters

As a holistic life coach, I talk to so many mothers and women who are doing everything they can to support their children — but still feel unsure, especially when it comes to teens.

This episode reminded me (and I hope it reminds you too) that the best thing we can do is listen.

Sometimes, the most healing thing is simply creating a safe space for our kids to be heard, seen, and loved exactly as they are — even in the messiness, the doubts, and the growing pains.

🎈 Happy 15th Birthday, Teagan!

Teagan, you are a light in this world. Your voice matters. Your faith, your strength, and your honesty inspire me more than you know. I’m so grateful to be part of your journey — not just as your stepmom, but as someone who gets to learn from you every single day.

🎧 If you haven’t already, go listen to the full episode here

I promise, whether you’re a parent, stepparent, or just someone who loves personal growth and real conversations — you’ll walk away from this one encouraged and inspired.

If this blog resonated with you, share it with a fellow mama or stepmama who could use a little encouragement today. 💛

With love and light,
Kari