On today's episode of the Powerful Parenting Journey Podcast, Stephanie talks to Justin Guarini, an American singer, songwriter, and actor who came second in the first season of American Idol in 2002. Over the past 20 years, Justin Guarini has entertained hundreds of millions of fans around the world.

Justin will talk about his quest to achieve his goals while serving and leaving a legacy. While he struggled in his 20s and 30s, he is now more focused on lighting as many candles as possible and burning the candle at both ends. As the son of Atlanta's first black police chief and a mother who worked as an anchor for CNN, Justin will reflect on the strong influence his parents had on him, including his stepfather, and how his experiences led him to form a strong bond with his own children. He will contrast his upbringing by successful and career-oriented parents with his desire to see his children become leaders without being driven solely by success and money.

He will talk about Wake Up Warrior, which focuses on the four core elements of a man's life: Body, Spirituality, Relationships, and Business. You will learn how to better connect with your children and empathize with their world. You’ll learn the importance of teaching children to care for themselves and understand their own independence. You'll also understand why it is your job to guide your children and help them make good decisions more than to be their best friend.

Justin will share the challenges of raising children in the age of technology and the need for guardrails and limits on screen time to ensure children are not exposed to inappropriate content. You'll learn about his own experiences of daily devotions and prayer with his children to cultivate gratitude and love. Finally, Justin encourages parents to take ownership of their role as parents, even if they feel they have messed up in the past, and to work towards healing and connection.

Join Stephanie and Justin for an insightful conversation about growing up in the pre-digital world and parenting in the age of technology.

Enjoy!

"I'm more focused on legacy. And I just know that with the passion I have to not only to perform but to serve as well, I can accomplish so many of my goals." (Justin Guarini)

"There's a hustle and grind now in my 40s, making sure I light as many candles as I can for others along the way." (Justin Guarini)

"My children may question all kinds of things about my parenting, but they will never question whether or not they are loved." (Justin Guarini)

"The biggest lesson I will ever teach them is that no one is coming to save you." (Justin Guarini)

"Fame is not the thing you want. Fame is a tool you can use to get what you want." (Justin Guarini)

"Rules without relationship equals rebellion." (Stephanie)

Justin Guarini