Real Answers - Family Life News

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Real Answers - Family Life News

A special news feature from Family Life offering candid conversations about some of the issues facing families today. 

  1. 126

    Real Answers: "A.I.-Proofing Your Career." - 5/13/26

    The C-E-O of Microsoft A.I. predicts that most white-collar work will “be fully automated by A.I. within the next 12 to 18 months. What's an employee to do? Licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson has some practical advice on meeting the challenge of A.I. in the workplace on this edition of "Real Answers."

  2. 125

    Real Answers: "Grieving the loss of a child" - 4/29/26

    It's every parent's worst nightmare: Losing a child.   On this edition of "Real Answers," licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson talks about navigating the grieving process, as well as how to best help others through it.

  3. 124

    Real Answers: "Easter as a Springboard to Resurrecting Relationships" - 4/1/26

    Easter celebrates christ's resurrection, and it can also be a perfect time to resurrecting broken relationships. so says licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson on this edition of "Real Answers," offering practical advice on how to get the ball rolling.

  4. 123

    Real Answers: "Keeping Kids Learning During Summer" - 3/18/26

    Though it's not even spring yet, it's not too early to begin planning out how your children will be spending their days this summer - ideally a healthy mix of fun and quality learning time. On this edition of "Real Answers," licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson offers practical tips to plan out summer activities that'll help kids have plenty of summer fun while still learning and avoiding too much screen time.   

  5. 122

    Real Answers: "How to Talk About War" - 03/04/26

    Few subjects are more divisive - or more challenging to talk about with your children - than war. In this edition of "Real Answers," licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson offers practical advice on how to approach this very timely topic with practical and biblical wisdom.

  6. 121

    Real Answers: "Getting Real about Artificial Intelligence" - 02/18/26

    There's no denying the fast-growing impact of "AI" - Artificial Intelligence - on many aspects of daily life…and not all of that impact is good. Licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson has some thoughts on making sure AI doesn’t get the best of you or your family.

  7. 120

    Real Answers: "Adult children disconnecting from their parents" - 02/04/26

    Parents needing to spend time with their children after their children get married to somebody else...and adult children should be mindful of that need. That's the topic on this edition of "Real Answers" with licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson.

  8. 119

    Real Answers: "Avoiding Media-Fueled Anxiety & Depression"" - 01/21/26

    Avoiding media-driven anxiety and depression. That’s the timely topic on this edition of “Real Answers”, as licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson offers up practical advice on not letting the overwhelming nature of today’s 24/7 media get the best of you.

  9. 118

    Real Answers: "Keeping New Year's Resolutions" - 01/02/26

    Making New Year's resolutions is easy. Keeping them? Not so much. On this bonus edition of "Real Answers," licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson uncorks some practical advice to keep things on track. 

  10. 117

    Real Answers: "Taking Control of Your Possessions So They Don't Control You" - 12/10/25

    With Christmas often comes an ever-growing collection of nostalgic items that can easily overrun a house and take control. On this episode of "Real Answers," licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson giftwraps some practical advice to keep things from getting out of hand.  

  11. 116

    Real Answers: "Churches Sharing Resources in Rural Areas" - 11/26/25

    In this episode of "Real Answers," licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson discusses the wisdom of churches in underserved areas not viewing each other as rivals, but instead pooling their resources to better provide for the spiritual needs of their congregations.

  12. 115

    Real Answers: "Avoiding Holiday Stress" - 11/12/25

    In this edition of Real Answers, licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson helps you get a jump on avoiding stress during the upcoming holiday season through a combination of planning and proper priorities..

  13. 114

    Real Answers: "Reacting to Hurricane Melissa Striking Jamaica" - 10/29/2025

    In this edition of "Real Answers," licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson relates his personal experience living in Jamaica doing missionary work, and shares advice on how American Christians should approach helping storm victims, even in what is increasingly an "America First" environment.

  14. 113

    Real Answers: "The Charlie Kirk Aftermath - Part 2" - 10/15/2025

    In Part 2 of a special two-part "Real Answers," licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson continues an in-depth look at the aftermath of the assassination of prominent conservative Christian voice Charlie Kirk - focusing here on the unique evangelistic opportunity this powerful American "cultural moment" has unleashed...and how Christians should be prepared for it.

  15. 112

    Real Answers: "The Charlie Kirk Aftermath - Part 1" - 09/24/2025

    With a terrible tragedy comes a tremendous opportunity. In Part 1 of a special two-part "Real Answers," licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson unpacks the tragedy - the assassination of prominent conservative Christian voice Charlie Kirk - and the unique evangelistic opportunity this powerful American "cultural moment" has unleashed.

  16. 111

    Real Answers: "Dealing with Grief" - 09/10/2025

    As believers, how are we supposed to cope with the grief of unexpected loss? That's the challenging topic on this edition of “Real Answers” with licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson. He provides insights and practical Biblical advice for those who are grieving, as well as those who want to best help them.  

  17. 110

    Real Answers: "Mental & Spiritual Health" - 08/27/2025

    In this "Best of" re-broadcast of a Real Answers program which originally aired December 4th, 2024, licensed counselor Christopher Anderson explores the crucial links between our mental and spiritual health, and offers sound biblical counsel on maintaining proper balance.

  18. 109

    Real Answers: "College Bound" - 08/13/25

    For many families, August brings an exciting, but frightening new chapter to their lives - sending teens off to college for the first time. In this edition of "Real Answers," licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson offers sound, biblical advice on preparing students for what a secular campus environment will throw at them.

  19. 108

    Real Answers: "Failure to Launch - Part 2" - 07/30/2025

    A growing number of children are linging on at home into young adulthood, and in many instances, it's not a healthy situation for them, or their parents. In the conclusion of a two-part program, licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson further explores some of the reasons behind the trend, and offers practical ways for parents and adult kids to get things moving in the right direction.

  20. 107

    Real Answers: "Failure to Launch" - 07/16/2025

    A growing number of children are linging on at home into young adulthood, and in many instances, it's not a healthy situation for them, or their parents. Licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson looks at some of the reasons behind the trend, and offers ways for parents to get things moving in the right direction.

  21. 106

    Real Answers: "The U.S. Supreme Court Decision on Parents' Rights" - 07/02/2025

    A U.S Supreme Court decision in a Maryland case will have far-reaching implications on parents' rights when it comes to shielding their children from school instruction incompatible with their religious beliefs. Licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson unpacks that decision and offers sound advice on how parents should follow up on it.

  22. 105

    Real Answers: "Workplace Excellence" - 06/18/2025

    As Christians, we're called to do more than just 'punch in & punch out' at our jobs...even though some days, it can be a struggle. In this episode of "Real Answers," licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson explores the biblical case for striving for workplace excellence.

  23. 104

    Real Answers: "Pop Up Parties" - 06/04/2025

    June is a month with a lot of celebrations - graduations, weddings and other happy events. However, there are some other gatherings that raise some serious red flags for teens, parents & society as a whole - including destructive, large-scale "pop-up parties."That's the focus of this edition of Real Answers with licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson.

  24. 103

    Real Answers: "Seeking Solitude" - 05/21/2025

    Seeking solitude in an ocean of chaos. That's our topic on this edition of "Real Answers" as we discuss the issues that matter to families with licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson.

  25. 102

    Real Answers: "Are We Getting Dumber?" - 04/30/2025

    Is humanity losing its collective mind? On this edition of “Real Answers”, licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson looks at new data showing cognitive ability in decline, the possible reasons behind it, and steps we can take to fight the trend. 

  26. 101

    Real Answers: "The Importance of Fathers" - 04/29/2025

    Modern culture has greatly devalued the role of the father in both families and society, which is in direct conflict with how God's Word sees it. In this edition of the "Real Answers" podcast, licensed counselor Christopher Anderson has some practical ways to counteract that troublesome trend, including thoughts on the key role churches need to play in restoring fathers and father figures to the prominence for which they are intended.

  27. 100

    Real Answers: "Preparing Without Worrying" - 04/02/2025

      Being Prepared  The "Real Answers" Podcast from Family Life News  In unsettled times, it can become challenging to balance the urge to prepare for the worst with placing our faith in God for control of our future. In this edition of the "Real Answers" podcast, licensed counselor Christopher Anderson has some practical ways to practice biblically responsible preparation with Scripture that tells us to place our faith in the Lord...and even ways to use wise preparation as an avenue to introduce non-believers to your faith.

  28. 99

    Real Answers: "Work/Life Balance Advice for Christian Families" - 03/19/2025

    Work/Life Balance  The "Real Answers" Podcast from Family Life News  In our 24/7 connected, work from home world, it's never been more challenging to maintain a biblically-based balance between work and family. So says licensed counselor Christopher Anderson, who joins us for this "Real Answers" podcast.  Anderson says familes need to be intentional about making sure we run our schedules - not the other way around...and to keep the main things the main things in a God-honoring way. In his private practice, he welcomes clients who do not bring a personal faith background, because the guidance he offers applies to anyone with mental health concerns. People who are active with their faith can find strategies to deal with their issues, with benefits for head, heart and soul. #RealAnswers #FamilyLifeNews

  29. 98

    Real Answers: "40 Days with (some) Fasting from our Devices" - 03/05/2025

    Real Answers A Family Life News podcast with Christopher Anderson  Some people will give up chocolate or colas over the next forty days, as an act of self-denial for the Lenten season. A relatively-new option for the centuries-old spiritual practice of "giving up something for Lent" has gained some traction --- cutting back on screen-time and the use of mobile devices.   Christian counselor Christopher Anderson talks about "digital fasting" in today's edition of "Real Answers". You can subscribe, listen to, and share this edition of "Real Answers", previous episodes of this feature, and all of family life's original podcasts. You, your family, your friends, and members of your congregation can also find "Family Life News" on many other popular podcast platforms.   #realanswers #newspodcasts #familylifenews   

  30. 97

    Real Answers: "How and Why to Have Conversations About Sex" - 02/26/2025

    Talking (Faithfully) about Sex Family Life's "Real Answers" podcast "Real Answers" talks about the real issues which face today's families. On this edition, Licensed Mental Health Counselor Christopher Anderson has advice for parents of teens --- and preteens --- on how to address the delicate topic of sex. This, he says, is vitally important amid a surrounding culture bombarding children and adolescents with inappropriate messages.   This important subject is also discussed in a number of other programs which air on the Family Life radio network, for example: Parenting Today's Teens Focus on the Family   "Real Answers" is one of our Wednesday news features which airs on through our PA and NY radio stations, our (available anywhere) live streams, and your smart speakers.  Listen during our Noon Report and 5 O'Clock Report. This and all of our original Family Life podcasts are also available from www.FamilyLife.org.newspodcasts and through many other popular podcast platforms. Just search for "Family Life News".

  31. 96

    Real Answers: "Beating the Winter Blues" - 01/29/2025

    Winter Moods - Uplifting Advice The Real Answers podcast with Christopher Anderson on Family Life News The "post-holiday, long-time-until spring" blues can affect many people in various ways. Seasonal Affective Disorder is real, but that isn't the only explanation why you might feel a bit "down" during these cold, snowy, isolating, dim months. On this Family Life News feature, licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson offers suggestions and practical advice on how to recognize your moods and attitudes in winter, how to put them into perspective, and ways to find uplifting pathways for your life, regardless of the climate and the circumstances. Real Answers is one of our Wednesday features heard on the Family Life Noon Report and the Family Life 5 O'Clock Report. You also can hear the current edition and scroll through the Real Answers archives on a full range of topics by going to www.FamilyLife.org/newspodcasts. This and all of our Family Life podcasts are also available as you search on popular podcast platforms like Apple, YouTube and Spotify. Subscribe to get a ping when a new episode of your favorite podcast is posted. You can also download or share these features.

  32. 95

    FLN Real Answers: Stress Levels for Older Adults - Chris Anderson - 1/15/25

    Real Answers A Family Life News Wednesday podcast Many senior adults are facing rising stresses and mental health challenges. Today, Family Life news anchor Mark Webster talks with licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson about this significant real-life topic.   "Real Answers" gets a Christian counselor's insights on the tough topics facing today's families. You can search through our archives to find previous conversations. You can find this and all of our Family Life features on many popular podcast platforms, include YouTube, Apple and Spotify. You can also listen, subscribe, download or share our podcasts at www.FamilyLife.org/newspodcasts.   For further information: The National Council on Aging has created a list of 6 Top Tips to Reduce Stress

  33. 94

    Family Life: Real Answers: "Blue Christmas" advice from Chris Anderson

    Dealing with a Blue Christmas this year? The Real Answers podcast from Family Life News Elvis Presley famously sang about having a "Blue Christmas". Our expert guest today unwraps what is a growing issue -- people who struggle during through holidays when so many people around them seem more upbeat, "merry and bright".  Licensed mental health counselor Christopher Anderson says the somber emotions of a blue Christmas due to personal loss  is often felt more keenly during the holiday season, as compared to other parts of the year. Anderson has some advice and encouragement if these dynamics are present for you during your December. Christopher Anderson operates a private practice offering counseling in the Southern Tier of New York. He joins us each month for "Real Answers", which airs on Wednesdays during the Noon Report and 5 O'Clock Report, and is available 24/7 among our Family Life News podcasts.

  34. 93

    Real Answers: Mental Health & Spiritual Health intertwine - 12/04/24

    Mental Health & Spiritual Health  The "Real Answers" Podcast from Family Life News  Our mental health status has direct connections to our spiritual health -- and vice versa. So says licensed counselor Christopher Anderson, who joins us for this "Real Answers" podcast. Anderson says hope has its strongest foundation when that hope is based on a reality which goes beyond our circumstances, feelings and challenges.  In his private practice, he welcomes clients who do not bring a personal faith background, because the guidance he offers applies to anyone with mental health concerns. People who are active with their faith can find strategies to deal with their issues, with benefits for head, heart and soul. #RealAnswers #FamilyLifeNews 12/04/2024

  35. 92

    The aftermath of this election is still stressing many families - Real Answers: "Election Aftermath" - 11/20/2024

    The aftermath of this election is still stressing many families It's been hard to stay connected with family, friends, neighbors and co-workers amid the strong reactions to the significantly divisive political climate in 2024. One Yale professor has recommended that supporters of liberal politicians cut off their gathering with relatives who voted the other way, to avoid overlapping at Thanksgiving and the Christmas season. Our commentary from a licensed specialist recommends a better way: As much as it depends on you, stay connected to people with whom you disagree.   Christian counselor Chris Anderson joins us for the Family Life "Real Answers" podcast. Mark Webster is the new Real Answers host.  

  36. 91

    Real Answers: "The Process of 'Adulting'" – 10/16/24

    Real Answers – the process of “Adulting” It is a varied range of family situations which has young adults reliant on their parents. In some cases, 20-somethings living in their “growing up” home with their parents is a practical reality or a financial necessity. In some cases, the trendy phrase “failure to launch” applies. Christian … Read More Read More

  37. 90

    Real Answers – Safety replaces Fear, in troubled relationships – 9/18/24

    It’s “Real Answers” on Family Life This Wednesday news feature tackles the tough topics faced by many families. Christian therapeutic counselor Christopher Anderson gives insights in how fear in relationships can be replaced by a stronger sense of safety. It’s an important transition to make, and can help everyone involved in abusive or troubled relationships. … Read More Read More

  38. 89

    8/14/24 Real Answers: Taking Kids To College

    Family Life’s Sarah Harnisch sits down with Christian Counselor Chris Anderson to discuss how to drop your kids off at college (and be ok).

  39. 88

    Real Answers – How to Send Your Students Off to College – 8/14/24

    “Real Answers” on Family Life It’s that time of year again. …And a first-time-EVER for many. Student head off to college, and parents say goodbye and launch them into a new academic year…and a new season of their lives. A Christian mental health counselor has some perspectives and recommendations on how to make this a … Read More Read More

  40. 87

    Real Answers with Chris Anderson: New York’s SAFE For Kids Act

    Family Life News Anchor Sarah Harnisch sits down with licensed Christian counselor Chris Anderson to talk about New York’s new SAFE Act that sets limits on social media companies for kids and teens.

  41. 86

    Real Answers – Young People and Those Devices – 7/17/24

    Real Answers – Children, Families, Cell Phones – 7/17/24 Today: Questions about “questionable” content coming across the mobile devices of children and teens. New York-based Counselor Christopher Anderson offers some advice for parents and families. Particularly this week, many children were viewing images, videos and reports about the shooting of Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania … Read More Read More

  42. 85

    Real Answers: How To Talk to Your Kids About Hard Things in the News

    Family Life’s Sarah Harnisch sits down with Licensed Christian Counselor Chris Anderson and asks how to handle tough news stories, like the near-assassination of former President Donald Trump. Anderson walks, step by step, how to shepherd your kids and teens from social media, difficult images, and hard news.

  43. 84
  44. 83

    Real Answers – Reducing Anxiety in our Children – 6/05/24

    “Real Answers” on Family Life How parents can reduce stress and anxiety in our children and teens “You are the parent. You will be your child’s strongest influence, and that is a mantle you really need to take up.”   Christian counselor Christopher Anderson explores how your family be a positive influence on young people … Read More Read More

  45. 82

    Real Answers – continuing our conversation about “Raising Sons” – 5/15/24

    Raising children is a delight and a challenge. Parenting is one of the most important tasks in all of life for those who are given this privilege. Daughters also rely on uplifting upbringings, yet today we focus on boys.  What is unique about raising sons?   On this edition of Family Life’s “Real Answers“, therapeutic … Read More Read More

  46. 81

    Raising Boys – Family Life’s Real Answers – 05/01/24

    It’s “Real Answers” on Family Life Raising boys affects sons, families and cultures. Christian counselor Christopher Anderson offers tangible, specific areas of emphasis for parents — which also apply to other influential males in these families, churches and community groups: Control the role of tech in the child’s or teen’s life Connect with a congregation … Read More Read More

  47. 80

    Real Answers – Remarriage, after a spouse’s death – 4/17/24

    The “Real Answers” podcast from Family Life Christian counselor Christopher Anderson offers insights for a unique group: those whose spouse has died. There is new research on how often those people get remarried. It happens more often later in life, and he says some of the most fruitful second marriages occur when both partners have … Read More Read More

  48. 79

    Real Answers – Making Friends – 3/20/24

    “Real Answers” about: making friends In an age of social media, online connections, and political divisiveness, it can be hard to find a good friend. The same challenge is also true of being a good friend. Our “Real Answers” commentator Christopher Anderson offers perspectives and advice on why adult friendship are so valuable, as well … Read More Read More

  49. 78

    Real Answers – How to Fight, Right – 2/21/24

    Real Answers – How to Fight, Right – 2/21/24 New research discusses factors that lead to divorce. How people fight is an important dynamic. Christian counselor Christopher Anderson joins Family Life’s Sarah Harnish to talk about how to fight in our relationships. He is not (obviously) encouraging spouses to seek out arguments, but to be … Read More Read More

  50. 77

    Real Answers – Parents & Children & Social Media – 2/07/24

    “Start early. Monitor closely your children’s online activities. Be consistent with enforcement of online rules you as a parent set in place.” Parents have more authority over what shows on their children’s video screens than social media titans do. So says Christian counselor Christopher Anderson. Last week, in a captivating day of Capitol Hill testimony, … Read More Read More

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

A special news feature from Family Life offering candid conversations about some of the issues facing families today.

HOSTED BY

Family Life

Produced by Dave Margalotti

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