In this episode, Ric sits down with 16-year-old Greyson Wootton, not a researcher, not a psychologist, but a real high school student living the real pressures of teenage life. From risky behaviors and body image to academics, identity, and belonging, Greyson offers honest insight into what life is really like for teenagers in 2025.

In this special Thanksgiving episode of the DoorWays Ministry Podcast, Ric Shields shares a powerful true story of God’s unexpected provision: an unopened envelope, an honest prayer, and a miracle that made generosity possible. He also invites listeners to explore the newly restored DoorWays website. Filled with encouragement, biblical insight, and a reminder that God supplies seed to the sower, this episode will strengthen your faith and renew your heart for gratitude and giving.

Your kid sits you down. They look nervous. And then you hear the words you weren’t expecting today: “We’re dating.”

…Now what?

In this episode, the team dives into the moment every Christian family eventually faces — when a child starts stepping into dating relationships. We talk about the tension between wanting to protect our kids and wanting to build trust with them, how to respond without overreacting, and why creating open communication is one of the strongest tools a parent can have.

In this podcast, Ric Shields speaks with Dr. Nicholas Westers, a leading expert on self-injury and adolescent psychology. They discuss why people may harm themselves, how to recognize the hidden pain behind it, and how to respond with compassion rather than fear. This episode offers clarity, hope, and encouragement for anyone who wants to understand and make a difference.

In this powerful episode of the DoorWays® Ministry Podcast, host Ric Shields talks with Lydia Maier, a woman who battled years of self-harm, depression, and suicide attempts before finding true freedom through faith. Once a psychiatric patient, now a missionary in Switzerland, Lydia shares how God transformed her pain into purpose and how prayer and grace can bring healing to even the darkest places.

Poverty isn’t always visible—but for many teens in rural communities, it shapes every part of life. In this episode, Ric Shields talks with counselor Jessica Dixon-Neal about the unseen challenges young people face when access to care, resources, and opportunity is out of reach. Together, they share stories of resilience and remind us that consistent compassion can help restore hope where it’s hardest to find.

Teen depression is real, and it's closer than we think. In this powerful conversation, Ric Shields speaks with Laura Smith from Grand Mental Health to talk about the hidden battles teenagers face and how faith, presence, and love can change everything. They discuss the impact of social pressure, family stress, and the hope that comes through compassion and care.

Over 80% of teens have seen pornography… but 75% of parents think their kids haven’t. In this powerful and painfully honest episode, Ric Shields and youth pastor Titus Schmitt expose how porn is quietly shaping a generation. They share real, hopeful steps families can take to fight back and find freedom.

Social media is one of the most powerful influences in a teenager's life today. In this episode of the DoorWays® Ministry Podcast, Ric Shields and guest Macee McAtee explore how parents, pastors, and mentors can guide teens to use their online presence for good. Learn how to help teens navigate comparison, identity, and influence while shining the light of Christ in a digital world.

What if we shifted our mindset from “rescuing kids” to “redeeming families”? In this episode of the DoorWays® Ministry Podcast, Ric Shields sits down with Gary and Tammie Webb of OCJ Kids. Together, they share powerful stories of foster teens, the importance of strengthening families, and how small acts of compassion can transform lives forever.