In this episode of the EZ Conversations podcast, Furkhan engages in a deep discussion with Marcus Higgs, a communication coach for parents of preteens. We explore a variety of topics including the influence of words, the impact of culture, and the role of faith in shaping one's beliefs. Marcus shares insights from his experiences teaching around the world and working with parents, emphasizing the importance of understanding personal values and virtues. The conversation delves into the power of storytelling, the significance of being a curious learner, and finding meaning through connection with others. Throughout, Marcus reflects on his journey of faith and belief, highlighting an openness to learning from different perspectives and experiences. Marcus is a 'communication coach' for parents of adolescents 10 to 14 years old. He helps parents effectively show up and connect with their preteen and secure a relationship while their child is pulling away. Marcus especially finds joy in supporting multicultural families; families who communicate across generational and cultural divides. He has served internationally (in East Asia, Europe, South East Asia, Middle East and South America) for over a decade and a half. Marcus also grew up in a diverse home himself (with a mother from the Philippines and a father from the Bahamas), so he understands the challenges of an intercultural family. You can learn more about him and his work at MarcusHiggs.com 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:48 Guest Background and Career Journey 03:08 The Power of Words and Communication 06:04 Exploring Faith and Cultural Experiences 10:40 Working with Children and Parenting Insights 15:56 Understanding Culture and Human Connection 21:12 Experiences as a Bible Teacher 22:52 Cherished Memories of Bible Classes 23:00 Understanding Religion Through Different Lenses 23:34 The Role of a Teacher: Learning from Students 24:59 The Power of Listening and Understanding 27:31 Creating Safe Spaces and Imaginary Friends 29:32 Exploring Evolving Beliefs and Convictions 35:55 Virtues and Values in Education and Parenting 39:50 The Importance of Self-Knowledge and Resilience 45:57 Final Reflections and Contact Information Sponsors of the Podcast: BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/ez10 for 10% off your first month of therapy WeShape: https://weshape.postaffiliatepro.com/scripts/dcfogwyuk?a_aid=FurkhanDandia&a_bid=d7508fa8 for 35% all plans. Aura: https://aura.com/ez10 for a free two-week trial Plunge: https://plunge.com/ez Mint Mobile: https://trymintmobile.com/ez10 for 15$ for an unlimited cell phone plan Mental: https://getmental.com/ez If you would like to support EZ Conversations, here are all the ways you can do that: Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/eunoiazen Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/eunoiazen YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrqBp_zdRiIfBRV4wURSZ2A LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/furkhan-dandia-macp-mba-072a8a1ba/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EzConversations Or find Furkhan's Book, Pursuit of Self Love: 30 Uplifting Messages and Reflections. The Kindle version is available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.ca/Pursuit-Self-Love-Uplifting-Messages-Reflections-ebook/dp/B0C4D1XYL1 Subscribe to the EZ Reflections Newsletter: https://ez-reflections-newsletter.beehiiv.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices