Midlife Moms + Teen Boys: How to Break the One-Word Answer Cycle with Andrew Godwin Episode 235

If you've ever asked your teenage son a simple question and got hit with a "good… fine… idk", this episode is for you. Today I'm joined by Andrew Godwin, a communication skills coach for young men (ages 13–30+), and we're talking about what's actually going on when boys freeze, shut down, or give one-word answers… especially with adults, coaches, teachers, and recruiters. We get into the real reasons behind the "brick wall" (hint: it's not laziness), why "just be yourself" isn't helpful, and what does work when your son needs to show confidence, warmth, and personality in high-stakes conversations. In this episode, you'll learn: Why teen boys often feel confident with friends… but freeze with adults (and how fear + skill gaps create the shutdown) The spotlight effect and how it messes with confidence (they think everyone is watching their mistakes) A simple mindset shift that changes everything: stop self-focusing → get other-focused The "warmth + competence" first impression combo (and how your son can signal both) A practical structure for recruiting calls so they don't ramble—or go blank What moms may be doing (with love!) that accidentally trains boys to hide behind them—and what to do instead Andrew's best advice for high school seniors heading to college who want real friends fast Next steps (do this today): Ask your son to practice ONE line with energy: "I'm doing great — how are you?" Have him prep a 3-part answer before important calls: "There are 3 reasons I'm excited…" Encourage ONE "rep" per day: one quick hello, one question, one small conversation starter If you have teenage boys (or a young man you love), this conversation is a must-listen. CONNECT WITH ANDREW: @andrew.godwin_ on Instagram Website: Join the Energy Institute Today:

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Midlife Moms + Teen Boys: How to Break the One-Word Answer Cycle with Andrew Godwin Episode 235 is an episode from Low Bottom/High Rise with Moira Kucaba by Moira Kucaba.

This episode is 29:46 long.

This episode was published on Apr 13, 2026.

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