Pursuing Wisdom in Your Teens with Owen & Brenna

In this episode of the Equip Podcast, Mark is joined by high school seniors Brenna Van Cleave and his son Owen for a conversation about what it looks like to grow in wisdom during the “spring” season of life. As part of a broader series on the seasons of life, this episode focuses on youth and the unique challenges young people face today.Through an honest and practical conversation, they explore what it means to pursue godliness in a digital world shaped by smartphones, social media, and constant connectivity. With insight for both students and parents, this episode offers a window into how the next generation is learning to follow Jesus with wisdom and intentionality.Episode Highlights00:27 — Introducing Brenna and Owen 00:54 — The “seasons of life” series and youth as the springtime of life 01:49 — Giving parents a window into what it’s like to be a teenager today02:53 — Where teenagers actually find godly wisdom 03:36 — Big questions, youth leaders, and the people who shaped their faith 04:49 — Why being invited into someone’s life matters as much as Bible study06:57 — Choosing close friends who are growing in godliness 07:41 — Friendship and how peers shape the stories of your life 10:57 — Looking ahead to college and the challenge of finding the right people14:40 — Social media, texting, and how digital communication can be harmful 16:41 — Why some teenagers are trying to step back from social media 18:25 — The dating scene in high school and how it feels different now22:54 — How young people hear dating advice and future family wisdom 24:11 — The “anxious generation” and fear of failure 26:06 — Why young people need real community that pushes them toward growth28:39 — What Brenna and Owen would say to younger students about choosing a path 30:48 — Final reflections on how to seek wisdom from Scripture, mentors, sermons, and podcastsResourcesCornerstone Sermons: Listen OnlineAsk Mark a Question!Suggest a topic or question for Mark to discuss on a future episode of the Equip Podcast!