The Power of Family

The Power of Family podcast is dedicated to helping families talk, listen, and connect more deeply across generations. Hosted by Terry Willis, this channel explores real conversations around family relationships, emotional intelligence, communication, faith, healing, and legacy. Through honest dialogue with experts, therapists, and community leaders, we share practical insights that strengthen family bonds and bridge generational gaps. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, caregiver, or someone seeking healthier family connections, you’ll find tools, stories, and conversations that support growth, understanding, and resilience. Subscribe for meaningful conversations that remind us: strong families build stronger futures.

Ep#11 Before It’s Too Late: The Conversations Families Wish They Had 04/02/2026

Ep#11 Before It’s Too Late: The Conversations Families Wish They Had What if the distance in your family isn’t about love, but about the conversations that never happened? In this deeply reflective episode, Terry Willis sits down with Neil Taylor to explore why families drift apart and how simple, intentional conversations can bring them back together. After losing his father and becoming a parent just days later, Neil realized something many families quietly carry: the fear of losing not just a loved one, but their story. Together, they unpack the real barriers families face, busy lives, generational gaps, distance, and the unspoken assumption that “we’ll talk about it later.” But later doesn’t always come. From siblings who reconnect after years apart to grandparents longing to be known beyond their role, this conversation gently reveals what’s often left unsaid and why it matters. You’ll hear practical ways to create space, ask meaningful questions, and listen with empathy even if it doesn’t feel natural at first. If you’ve ever thought, “I wish I had asked,” this episode is your invitation to start now. Listen, reflect, and share this with someone you love. Key Takeaways: Creating intentional “space” is the first step to meaningful family connection Listening with empathy (not interrupting or assuming) transforms relationships Family members often have very different experiences of the same childhood Simple practices (like scheduled calls or shared projects) can bridge distance One powerful question—“What makes a good life?”—can guide generations Guest Bio: Neil Taylor’s dad Patrick died in March 2021. 6 days later, his son was born. His middle name - Patrick. In the stillness between losing one and holding the other, he realised it would be up to him to communicate his dad’s essence to the people who’d never meet him, and that other families were carrying the same quiet fear. So he built Me & My Old Man: a 12-week experience that makes sure no family loses their loved one as well as their story. Guided conversations that bring families closer. The moments we miss. The questions we never ask. Our parents stories, in their voice, forever. 32 families. 6 countries. 350+ hours recorded. Featured on BBC Radio and the Parenting Hell podcast. Chapters: 00:00 The Journey Begins: A Personal Story 02:06 Bridging Generational Gaps 04:56 Creating Space for Connection 06:25 Unintended Consequences of Conversations 08:27 The Unsaid Words: Understanding Each Other 12:11 The Drift: Why Families Grow Apart 16:54 Maintaining Connections Across Generations 21:19 Practical Steps to Stay Connected 26:34 The Unspoken Wishes of Grandparents 27:00 Confronting the Inevitable: The Role of Death 28:30 Understanding Mortality and Family Connections 29:12 Lessons from Our Parents: What We Wish We Knew 30:16 The Impact of Life Experiences on Parenting 32:07 The Intergenerational Influence of Family Stories 34:11 Creating Space for Family Conversations 35:54 Tools for Family Connection 37:39 Engaging Reluctant Parents in Conversation 40:00 Surprising Insights from Family Interviews 44:12 Essential Conversations Every Family Should Have Connect with Neil Taylor: Download Neil's · If you’re ready to deepen connection in your family or community, hit subscribe and leave us a review, it helps others join the conversation. Learn more: Follow Us on Social Media Instagram: Tiktok: Facebook: LinkedIn: Youtube: /episode/index/show/0dbe8b0f-5ffb-41b5-9044-f0c287fbd38e/id/40709685

Ep#10 Legacy Isn’t Money: The Emotional Inheritance We Pass Down 03/19/2026

Ep#10 Legacy Isn’t Money: The Emotional Inheritance We Pass Down Money touches every family but it’s often the one thing we don’t talk about. In this episode, Terry Willis sits down with money expert Shari Rash to explore how our earliest experiences with money quietly shape the way we think, feel, and act, not just as individuals, but across generations. From childhood phrases like “we can’t afford that” to unspoken tension around finances, families often pass down emotional patterns without even realizing it. Shari shares how avoiding money conversations can leave children unprepared for real life and how small, everyday moments can become powerful teaching opportunities. This isn’t about lectures or perfection. It’s about shifting language, creating awareness, and helping children build a healthier, more neutral relationship with money. If you’ve ever felt uncomfortable talking about finances, or wondered how to better prepare your children or grandchildren, this conversation offers simple, practical ways to start. Listen in and maybe begin a new kind of conversation in your family today. Takeaways Children absorb emotional money patterns from what is said and unsaid at home Small language shifts (like reframing “we can’t afford it”) can change long-term beliefs Teaching money doesn’t require formal lessons, daily moments are enough Giving kids autonomy with money builds decision-making and responsibility A healthy goal is moving from emotional reactions to a neutral, practical view of money Guest Bio Shari Rash is a money expert, author, and host of the New York Times Top 4 , with over 24 million downloads worldwide. With more than 17 years of experience in the financial services industry, Shari is known for making money conversations approachable, relatable, and even enjoyable. Often called the “Best Financial Friend,” Shari delivers real, no-nonsense guidance that helps people understand their relationship with money, break free from limiting beliefs, and build unapologetic wealth on their own terms. She is the author of Insider’s Secrets About Women and Money and was named one of Investment News’ Best Wealth Managers and Advisors Under 40 in 2024. Through her work, Shari empowers individuals and families to rethink how they talk about money turning what is often a source of stress into a tool for confidence, clarity, and long-term well-being. Chapters 00:00 Precap 00:57 Welcome & Introduction 01:50 Making Finance Fun: A New Approach to Money Conversations 02:16 Emotional Legacies: How Family Influences Money Mindsets 05:23 Teaching Kids About Money: Simple Strategies for Families 10:45 Navigating Generational Differences: Parents vs. Grandparents on Spending 13:45 Rewriting Financial Narratives: Steps to Overcome Unhealthy Beliefs 19:25 Breaking the Taboo: Tools for Open Money Conversations 24:00 Investing Early: Teaching Kids the Value of Money 28:01 A Neutral Relationship with Money: Goals for the Next Generation 29:41 Navigating Technical Challenges in Recording 29:54 Connecting with Shari Rash: Insights on Money Management 30:46 Promoting Financial Literacy through Community Engagement 31:04 Concluding Thoughts and Next Steps If you’re ready to deepen connection in your family or community, hit subscribe and leave us a review, it helps others join the conversation. Learn more: Follow Us on Social Media Instagram: Tiktok: Facebook: LinkedIn: Youtube: /episode/index/show/0dbe8b0f-5ffb-41b5-9044-f0c287fbd38e/id/40536125

Ep#9 How parents are navigating technology without a clear playbook 02/26/2026

Ep#9 How parents are navigating technology without a clear playbook In this engaging conversation, Tiana Medley shares her experiences and insights on parenting in the digital age. She discusses the importance of being vigilant about children's online activities, setting boundaries for screen time, and maintaining open communication with kids. Tiana emphasizes the need for parents to actively engage with their children's lives, ensuring they have a safe and enjoyable childhood while navigating technology. The discussion also touches on emotional aspects of parenting and the do's and don'ts that can help guide parents in raising their children effectively. Takeaways You have to be very aware of your children's online activities. Research the games and apps your children use. Set clear boundaries for screen time and device usage. Open communication with children is crucial for trust. Make learning and spending time with children fun. Limit children's access to devices at night. Teach children to choose friends wisely. Be a hands-on parent and engage in your child's life. Monitor what your children are doing online. Encourage children to talk about their experiences with technology. Guest Bio Tiana Medley is a 35-year-old wife, mother of two daughters (ages 9 and 6), and full-time healthcare professional who is deeply committed to raising her children with intention, vigilance, and heart. Married for nearly nine years, Tiana balances career and motherhood while remaining a hands-on, present parent in today’s fast-moving digital world. Passionate about reading, research, and personal growth, she approaches parenting thoughtfully especially when it comes to technology and children. Chapters 00:00 Precap 00:31 Introduction 01:00 Introducing Tiana Medley 02:18 Navigating Technology and Kids 04:00 Setting Boundaries and Screen Time 10:30 Communication and Parenting Strategies 12:15 Emotional Insights on Parenting 15:05 Do's and Don'ts of Parenting If you’re ready to deepen connection in your family or community, hit subscribe and leave us a review, it helps others join the conversation. Learn more: Follow Us on Social Media Instagram: Tiktok: Facebook: LinkedIn: Youtube: /episode/index/show/0dbe8b0f-5ffb-41b5-9044-f0c287fbd38e/id/40241135

Ep#8 Bridging Generational Gaps in Family Communication 02/12/2026

Ep#8 Bridging Generational Gaps in Family Communication In this episode of The Power of Family, host Terry Willis engages with Chananya Abraham to explore the complexities of family dynamics, particularly the generational gaps that often lead to misunderstandings and disconnection. They discuss the importance of communication, the role of traditions, and how to create positive associations with family practices. The conversation emphasizes the need for gratitude and connection, encouraging families to bridge gaps through understanding and shared experiences. Takeaways It's important for parents to acknowledge their mistakes. Communication is key to bridging generational gaps. Traditions need to be understood and appreciated to be passed down. Creating positive associations with family practices is essential. Gratitude can foster connection between generations. Being curious about each other's experiences can enhance relationships. Grandparents play a vital role in family dynamics. It's never too late to reconnect with family members. Understanding the past can help shape a better future for families. Finding common ground is crucial for family unity. Guest Bio Chananya is a psychotherapist and coach with nearly two decades of experience, widely known for his work in generational, religious, and family trauma—and for helping parents and teenagers actually like each other, not just love each other. He is the mind behind Practice Your Way, a developing philosophy that challenges the idea that healing, growth, or faith must look one specific way to be legitimate. Blending clinical depth with cultural intelligence, old-school values, and a sharp sense of humor, Chananya helps people reconnect to their past without being trapped by it, strengthen their relationship with their values and higher purpose, and build healthier communication across generations. His work is grounded in a simple, demanding standard: do today better than yesterday—and prepare tomorrow to be better than today. Contact Chananya Abraham: Website: Instagram: Chapters 00:00 Bridging Generational Gaps 09:01 The Importance of Communication 12:15 Understanding Traditions and Connections 17:47 Creating Positive Associations 22:37 Gratitude and Connection 26:21 Finding Common Ground If you’re ready to deepen connection in your family or community, hit subscribe and leave us a review, it helps others join the conversation. Learn more: Follow Us on Social Media Instagram: Tiktok: Facebook: LinkedIn: Youtube: /episode/index/show/0dbe8b0f-5ffb-41b5-9044-f0c287fbd38e/id/40086240

Ep#7 When the Family Hurts: How to Heal Pain and Rebuild Connection 02/05/2026

Ep#7 When the Family Hurts: How to Heal Pain and Rebuild Connection Family pain cuts deeper than almost anything else. When distance, anger, or misunderstanding shows up between parents, children, or grandparents, it can feel overwhelming and sometimes beyond repair. In this episode, we sit down with relationship coach Tony Vear to explore why family hurt feels so intense and what it actually takes to begin healing it. Through personal stories and lived experience, Tony explains how listening—really listening—can shift even the most painful family dynamics. He challenges the idea that healing means fixing or forcing resolution, and instead invites families to focus on presence, responsibility, patience, and love in action. The conversation explores unmet expectations, childhood wounds, forgiveness, emotional intelligence, and why boundaries matter when rebuilding trust. This episode isn’t about blame or quick fixes. It’s about understanding where pain comes from, how it gets passed down, and how small, intentional shifts can open the door to reconnection. Key Takeaways Deep listening can be more healing than explaining or defending Family pain often comes from unmet expectations that were never spoken Love is shown through consistent actions, not just words Healing begins by taking responsibility for your role—without taking all the blame Forgiveness is a process that frees the person who chooses it Guest Bio Tony Vear is an author, relationship coach, program creator, and workshop leader with over 30 years of experience in relationships, communication, and personal development. Through his work and the founding of the Relationship Mastery Institute, he helps individuals and families understand love, heal breakdowns, and build more meaningful, lasting connections. Learn more about his work: Chapters 00:00 — Welcome to The Power of Family 02:10 — Why Family Pain Runs So Deep 05:05 — Meet Tony Vear: Why He Chose Relationships 09:20 — Listening Instead of Fixing Family Pain 13:45 — When Adult Children Express Anger 18:30 — Love Is Shown Through Action, Not Words 22:40 — Expectations: The Hidden Source of Family Hurt 27:15 — The Five Love Languages in Families 31:20 — Childhood Stories That Shape Adult Relationships 36:10 — The Platinum Rule vs. The Golden Rule 40:05 — When Families Avoid the Pain 44:05 — Taking Responsibility Without Taking All the Blame 47:45 — Forgiveness, Purpose, and Emotional Intelligence 51:10 — Final Reflections: Choosing Love and Healing If your family is struggling, distant, or hurting in ways that feel hard to name, this conversation offers insight, compassion, and hope. Listen in, reflect, and share this episode with someone who may need it. 👉 Subscribe for more conversations on family, healing, and connection 👉 Share this episode with someone who values real relationships 👉 Comment below: What helps your family feel more connected? Learn more: ⁠ Follow Us on Social Media Instagram: Tiktok: Facebook: LinkedIn: Youtube: /episode/index/show/0dbe8b0f-5ffb-41b5-9044-f0c287fbd38e/id/40004555

Ep#6 Tech vs Talk: Rebuilding Family Connection in a Digital World 01/29/2026

Ep#6 Tech vs Talk: Rebuilding Family Connection in a Digital World In this episode of The Power of Family, we sit down with Pete Bombachi, founder of , Canada’s Human Connection movement, for a deeply honest conversation about technology, loneliness, and what families are quietly losing in a screen-focused world. Together, we explore how technology, while here to stay, has slowly replaced face-to-face connection with convenience, distraction, and isolation. Pete shares why loneliness isn’t something to fear, but something to understand, and how chronic disconnection impacts families across generations from children and teens to parents, grandparents, and seniors. The conversation challenges the idea that connection can be outsourced or replaced by digital interaction, reminding us that proximity is not the same as presence. This episode invites families to rethink their daily habits, reclaim intentional time together, and recognize that social health is just as essential as physical or emotional health. Without blame or judgment, the discussion offers clarity, compassion, and practical perspective on how small moments of connection like shared meals, walks, conversations can restore resilience, healing, and belonging. Takeaways Digital technology should enhance, not replace, human interaction. Loneliness is a common human experience that needs addressing. Intentionality is key in fostering meaningful relationships. Family plays a crucial role in building connections. Community efforts can combat feelings of isolation. Face-to-face interactions are vital for mental health. The pandemic has exacerbated existing disconnection issues. We need to create a culture of connection in our society. Simple actions can lead to significant improvements in social health. Everyone can contribute to reducing loneliness in their communities. Guest Bio Pete Bombaci is a social change leader and the founder/CEO of GenWell, Canada’s Human Connection Movement. Since 2016, he has led its mission to educate, empower, and catalyze Canadians around social health and its impact on well-being. Under his leadership, GenWell delivers social health education and six national campaigns, fostering connection in workplaces, schools, and communities. Previously, Pete served as Country Director of Movember Canada, raising $142 million for men’s health. A sought-after speaker and thought leader, he inspires individuals, businesses, and policymakers to invest in social connection for a healthier, more connected Canada. You can find out more about the movement at . Chapters 00:00 The Impact of Technology on Human Connection 05:55 Understanding Loneliness and Its Roots 11:28 The Role of Family in Building Connections 17:26 Strategies for Strengthening Family Bonds 23:06 The Importance of Intentionality in Relationships 28:46 Community and Social Health: A Collective Approach 34:15 Real-Life Examples of Connection Making a Difference 40:15 Taking Action: Simple Steps to Reconnect If you’ve ever felt disconnected despite being constantly “connected,” this episode is an invitation to pause, reflect, and start the conversation. Listen, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who could use a reminder that connection still matters. If you’re ready to deepen connection in your family or community, hit subscribe and leave us a review, it helps others join the conversation. Learn more: Follow Us on Soical Media Instagram: Tiktok: Facebook: LinkedIn: Youtube: /episode/index/show/0dbe8b0f-5ffb-41b5-9044-f0c287fbd38e/id/39921465

Episode 5 Tech v. Talk : How Screens Are Changing Family Connection with Mary Catherine Licensed Professional Counselor & Certified Christian Life Coach 01/22/2026

Episode 5 Tech v. Talk : How Screens Are Changing Family Connection with Mary Catherine Licensed Professional Counselor & Certified Christian Life Coach Technology is everywhere, at the dinner table, in bedrooms, and in the hands of our children. In this episode of The Power of Family, we explore Tech vs Talk, a timely conversation about how screens are reshaping family relationships, communication, and emotional well-being across generations. Joined by , a licensed mental health counselor with over 14 years of experience working with individuals and families, the conversation dives into what parents and caregivers are seeing every day: increased conflict over screen time, rising anxiety and depression among young people, disrupted sleep, and growing disconnection at home. Together, they unpack how screen use affects the developing brain, why children and teens are especially vulnerable, and how online pressures like comparison, bullying, and unsafe interactions are impacting youth mental health. This episode isn’t about blaming technology or parents. It’s about awareness, balance, and solutions. You’ll hear practical ideas for setting healthier boundaries, strengthening face-to-face communication, and creating emotionally safe spaces where families can reconnect and grow. If you’ve ever wondered how to protect your child while staying connected in a digital world, this conversation offers clarity, compassion, and hope. TAKEAWAYS Technology creates a virtual sleepover environment for children. There is a significant generational gap in technology understanding. Mental health issues among youth are rising due to screen time. Screens have addictive properties similar to drugs. Social media is identified as a major cause of mental health problems. Excessive screen time affects brain development in young people. Parents should enforce no technology in bedrooms. AI lacks moral values and should not replace human interaction. Healthy brain development requires face-to-face communication. Setting boundaries around technology use is essential for family health. Guest Bio: Mary Catherine Liscinski is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Christian Life Coach. She has been a counselor for 14 years; in 2022 she became certified to treat Digital Addiction (smartphones, social media, and video games). She has her own practice and can coach anywhere in the United States. She loves working with teens, adults, and families, she has a passion for seeing families thrive. In her spare time, she loves to read and be outside, and when she can read outside, it’s the best of both worlds. Chapters 00:00 Precap & Intro 02:49 Understanding the Technology Gap: Bridging Generational Divides 05:43 Mental Health Crisis: The Alarming Effects of Screen Time 11:32 Addiction and the Brain: Understanding Screen Dependency 17:22 Navigating Online Dangers: Protecting Our Children 20:09 The Importance of Face-to-Face Communication 23:24 AI and Its Implications: Conversations Without Conscience 26:02 Healing Relationships: Strategies for Family Connection 29:07 Creating Healthy Boundaries: Screen Time Management 32:47 The Future of Family Dynamics: Embracing Technology Responsibly If this conversation resonates, take a moment to listen and reflect on how technology shows up in your family life. 🎧 Listen in, subscribe, and share this episode with a family who’s navigating the same questions. If you’re ready to deepen connection in your family or community, hit subscribe and leave us a review, it helps others join the conversation. Learn more: Follow Us on Soical Media Instagram: Tiktok: Facebook: LinkedIn: Youtube: <p><a style="text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.podchaser.com/ThePowerOfFamily?utm_source=The%20Power%20of%20Family%7C6287844&utm_medium=badge&utm_content=TCASP6287844" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><img style="width: 300px; max-width: 100%;" src="https://imagegen.podchaser.com/badge/TCASP6287844.png" alt="Podchaser - The Power of Family" width="300" height="auto"></a></p> <p> </p> /episode/index/show/0dbe8b0f-5ffb-41b5-9044-f0c287fbd38e/id/39823640

Trailer Episode 4 If the pain feels unbearable and you don’t know where to start—this is for you. 12/27/2025

Ep#4 A Conversation on Faith, Forgiveness & Family with Rev Melissa Moorer Nobles, Spiritual Life Coach 12/25/2025

Ep#3 The Generation Gap Is Real with Julie Hall, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist 12/11/2025

Episode 3 Trailer "We treat others how we treat ourselves" 12/09/2025

Ep#2 Real Talk (with Grandkids: Tanijah & Tanyen Jr.) 11/28/2025
Ep#2 Real Talk (with Grandkids: Tanijah & Tanyen Jr.)
In this special post-Thanksgiving episode of The Power of Family, Terry sits down with two people who carry his legacy in real time: his granddaughter, Tanijah, and his grandson, Tanyen Jr.
What begins as a warm family check-in quickly becomes real talk—about grief, distance, generational gaps, and the courage it takes to say, “I needed you, and I still want you in my life.”
Together with co-host Dr. Sonia Toledo, they /episode/index/show/0dbe8b0f-5ffb-41b5-9044-f0c287fbd38e/id/39563390

Ep#1 The Why Behind The Brand with Terry Willis and Dr. Sonia Toledo 11/15/2025
Ep#1 The Why Behind The Brand with Terry Willis and Dr. Sonia Toledo
Join Terry Willis and Dr. Sonia Toledo in an open, honest conversation about how “The Power of Family” was born, starting from a simple moment of vulnerability, evolving into a mission to help families talk, listen, and love more deeply.
Together they share their personal stories, the turning point that ignited their brand, and the vision for a podcast that connects generations, boosts emotional resilience, and builds meaningful legacies. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, teen, or simply /episode/index/show/0dbe8b0f-5ffb-41b5-9044-f0c287fbd38e/id/39563395

The Power of Family

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