Joyful Courage for Parenting Teens

If you've ever watched your teen spiral into negative thinking and felt completely helpless — or worse, realized your response made it worse — this episode is for you. I sat down with certified youth life coach Anna Kashner to talk about teen life coaching, how it's different from therapy, and what's actually happening in your teen's brain when they catastrophize. Anna is warm, practical, and deeply experienced, and she left me (and will leave you) with real tools you can use starting today. Don't miss this one. GUEST BIO Anna Kashner is a certified youth and young adult life coach and executive function coach with over two decades of experience working with teens, young adults, and their families. Founder of Bolster Coaching, Anna supports young people ages 14–26 with motivation, executive functioning, academic success, friendships, and major life transitions. Her approach is rooted in unconditional positive regard, practical skill-building, and the belief that growth happens when young people feel truly seen and supported. She works in person in the Seattle area and virtually nationwide. Learn more at bolstercoaching.net or on Instagram @bolstercoaching. For more info and show notes go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-649-teen-coaching-with-anna-kashner/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, I'm sitting down with the incredible Wendy Snyder of Fresh Start Family — and this conversation is good. We're talking about breaking painful generational cycles, the power of humility as a parenting superpower, and why releasing control actually works better in the teen years. Wendy shares her raw, honest journey from overwhelmed mom to leading educator, and we get into the real stuff: shame, nervous system patterns, and what a fresh start actually looks like when things have already gotten hard. Guest Bio: Wendy Snyder is a certified positive parenting educator, family life coach, and founder of Fresh Start Family. Through her podcast, courses, and coaching programs, she's helped thousands of parents ditch fear-based discipline and raise emotionally healthy kids. She is the author of Fresh Start Your Family: Powerful Parenting to Restore Peace in Your Home, releasing May 19, 2026. For more info and show notes go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-648-parenting-with-humility-and-breaking-cycles-with-wendy-snyder/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you've been feeling off lately (like me) — scattered, insecure, or like you've lost your footing — this episode is for you. In this solo show, I'm sharing what happened when I finally returned to my Soul Care practice after weeks away, and why intentional inner work is our most important foundation. I walk you through gratitude, affirmations, card pulls, and the mindset shifts that help me stay grounded as a parent and a person. This one is a reset. Come back to yourself. Find more info and show notes at: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-647-returning-to-our-soul-care/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you've ever wondered why your "good kid" seems fine on the outside but distant, perfectionistic, or quietly falling apart — this episode is for you. I sat down with Maggie Nick, licensed clinical social worker and trauma therapist, to talk about what she calls "good kid" patterns: the relational shame that forms when kids learn to hide their messy, real selves to stay lovable. We dig into the check engine lights parents miss, why reassurance backfires, and what kids actually need to feel safe enough to show up as they are. Don't miss this one. Maggie Nick is a licensed clinical social worker, trauma therapist, and author of Good Kids: Why You Suffer in Silence and How to Break the Cycle. She helps parents and adults understand the roots of people-pleasing, perfectionism, and shame — and how to break generational cycles. Find more info and show notes at: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-646-getting-real-about-good-kids-with-maggie-nick/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are you parenting from trust—or survival? In this episode I sit down with Debbie Simmons, mom of thirteen and leadership strategist, to explore the hidden defaults that hijack our parenting when pressure hits—control, silence, over-functioning, people pleasing. We talk about why being the "strong one" in your family might actually be costing you your health and your connection with your teen. Debbie shares her T.R.U.S.T. framework and we dig into how letting go of control opens the door to the relationship your teen actually needs from you. This one will shift something in you. About Debbie Simmons: Debbie Simmons is a keynote speaker, author, leadership strategist, and CEO of Anchor Point. Known as The Legacy Architect, she guides high-capacity leaders from success into significance through her Architecture of Trust framework. A mother of thirteen—four in heaven, nine through adoption—Debbie is the author of The Heart of Legacy and creator of The Vision Day Experience. Learn more at thedebbiesimmons.com. Find out more and see the show notes at https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-645-parenting-from-trust-with-debbie-simmons/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you've ever promised yourself you'd respond differently to your teen—and then found yourself right back in the same reactive loop—this episode is for you. I sat down with somatic educator and counselor Layne Burkette to explore why parenting teens is a physical experience, not just a mental one. We dig into how your own teenage wounds show up in your parenting today, and Layne guides us through several live somatic practices you can use right now. Your nervous system is the key to everything. Layne Burkette is a counselor, somatic educator, yoga psychology and meditation teacher, author, and mother of four. She helps overwhelmed parents regulate their nervous systems so they can respond with calm, clarity, and connection during the tween and teen years through her simple Breathe, Move, Heal framework. Find show notes and more at https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-644-teen-triggers-healing-with-layne-burkette/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Money talk on a parenting podcast? Yes — because financial stress shows up in our relationships with our teens whether we acknowledge it or not. In this episode I sit down with financial planner Lori Atwood to explore why so many of us avoid looking at our finances, how that avoidance leaks into our parenting, and what we can actually do about it. We dig into allowance, buyer's remorse as a teaching tool, prioritizing when college costs feel crushing, and how to model a healthier relationship with money for our kids. This one is practical, honest, and long overdue. Guest Bio: Lori Atwood, CFP® is the founder and CEO of Fearless Finance, a virtual financial planning firm offering expert, fiduciary, hourly guidance with no sales, no minimums, and no judgment. With over 25 years in finance — from investment banking and private equity to one-on-one planning — Lori is passionate about helping families feel empowered rather than stressed about money. She's also a parent of a teen, so she gets it. For more info and show notes, go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-643-fearless-finance-with-lori-atwood/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, I'm unpacking the unintended results of punishment, and why it isn't helpful with teenagers — and what actually is. We dig into the adolescent brain science behind why our kids make impulsive choices, why consequences are often just punishment in disguise, and how focusing on solutions builds the critical thinking skills our teens actually need. If you've ever wondered what to do instead of grounding, lecturing, or taking the phone away, this one's for you. Come listen and let's shift the mindset together. Casey O'Roarty is a parent coach, positive discipline lead trainer, speaker, and author of Joyful Courage: Calming the Drama and Taking Control of YOUR Parenting Journey. With over 20 years of experience supporting families, Casey specializes in helping parents of tweens and teens build connected, skill-based relationships through her membership program, coaching, and the this podcast. For more show notes and info go to https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-642-skip-the-punishment-focus-on-solutions/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I'm diving deep into what happens when we release others—including our teens—to their own journeys. As parents, we hang on so tight, resisting what scares us, but what we resist persists. I'm sharing my own messy middle of personal growth work, walking through the five principles of Positive Discipline from a radically honest place about marriage, parenting teens, and the hardest truth: our wellbeing is an inside job. If you're navigating the push-pull of adolescence while doing your own inner work, this episode is for you. Guest Bio: This is a solo episode with Casey O'Roarty, Parent Educator, Positive Discipline Lead Trainer, and host of the Joyful Courage podcast. Casey has over 20 years of experience supporting parents of tweens and teens through her coaching practice, Be Sprout­able, and her Living Joyful Courage membership program. Find more show notes and info at: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-641-well-being-is-an-inside-job/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feeling like you're living with a wildfire instead of just putting out fires with your teen? In this solo episode, I explore why traditional discipline approaches fail when relationships are ruptured, and introduce the concept of a "relationship reset" - an energetic cast that gives both you and your teen space to heal. Learn how disengaging with love (not indifference) can restore influence, rebuild trust, and create the connection your struggling teen desperately needs. This is a solo episode with Casey O'Roarty, parent educator, Positive Discipline lead trainer, and host of the Joyful Courage podcast. Find more info and show notes at: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-640-relationship-reset-with-your-teen/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this powerful conversation, I sit down with psychotherapist and Positive Discipline expert Alyson Schafer to explore how we can support our teens through today's turbulent political climate. We discuss Alfred Adler's vision for raising cooperative citizens, reading our kids' stress signals, using curiosity over lectures, and helping teens move from doom-scrolling to meaningful action. If you're struggling to hold space for your teen's big feelings about current events while maintaining hope for the future, this episode is essential listening. Guest Bio: Alyson Schafer is a psychotherapist, bestselling author, and one of the leading voices in Positive Discipline and Adlerian psychology. She has written multiple books including Breaking the Good Mom Myth and Ain't Misbehavin', and her work has helped families worldwide move from power struggles to cooperation. Alyson hosts her own podcast and runs child guidance programs rooted in democratic parenting principles. She lives in Canada and continues the legacy of Adlerian psychology through her international community work. For more show notes and info at: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/politics-and-parenting-with-alyson-schafer/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I recently sat down with Kevin Dahill-Fuchel to explore what's really happening with teens' mental health today and why traditional models aren't enough. We discussed the crisis of isolation among adolescents, how schools can become centers of healing, and the critical importance of adults modeling healthy relationships. Kevin shares powerful insights about meeting kids where they are, making suicide a speakable word, and why staying present with our teens—even when they push us away—matters more than ever. If you're wondering how to support your teen's mental health while managing your own overwhelm, this conversation offers hope and practical wisdom. Kevin Dahill-Fuchel is the Executive Director of Counseling in Schools, a pioneering organization that embeds mental health professionals directly into New York City public schools. With over 30 years of experience, Kevin has led his organization through major collective traumas including 9/11, Superstorm Sandy, and COVID-19, evolving their model to provide comprehensive community-wide support that now serves over 6,700 students, nearly 2,000 families, and 1,400 school staff across 52 schools. His healing-centered, anti-oppressive approach recognizes emotional and social wellbeing as foundational to student success. Find more info and show notes at: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-638-school-based-mental-health-solutions-with-kevin-dahill-fuchel/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I sat down with Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath, a neuroscientist who's worked with over 1,000 schools globally, and what he shared about educational technology absolutely validates what so many of us have been feeling. After reviewing six decades of research, Jared reveals how ed tech actually undermines our kids' learning—and why COVID didn't change that. Dr. Horvath earned his doctorate from University of Melbourne and master's from Harvard, and he breaks down the neuroscience of why analog learning beats digital every time. If you've felt uneasy about your teen's screen-based schoolwork, this conversation will empower you to push back. Listen now. For more about the guest and show notes, go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-637-dr-jared-horvath-edtech-harms-learning/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I'm starting 2026 at the heart of everything I teach: the shift from problem-focused to possibility-focused parenting. This solo episode dives deep into the work I've been doing with parents for nearly 20 years—understanding why your tools disappear when emotions run high and what actually bridges that gap. I'll unpack the neuroscience of focus, share the embodiment practices that ground my approach, and explain why self-regulation isn't just another task—it's the core of transformation. This isn't about New Year's resolutions or fixing your teen. It's about the daily practice of becoming the parent you want to be, one intentional moment at a time. For full show notes and more, go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-636-create-dont-correct-in-2026/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this solo episode, I'm getting real about navigating the holiday break with your teen. I'll walk you through the both/and of this season—how to hold hope and anxiety at the same time, including the grief that might be present. We'll explore how break is actually a low-stakes laboratory where teens practice essential life skills like managing unstructured time and problem-solving boredom. I'm sharing powerful language shifts that move you from exhausted cruise director to connected partner, plus a three-part gratitude practice to close the year with intention. If you're feeling anxious about break, this episode offers encouragement and practical tools. For show notes and more info go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-635-winter-break-with-teens/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this powerful replay from last year, I team up with my business partner Julietta Skoog and the incredible Dr. Shefali to reframe everything you think you know about the holiday season. We explore how to stay present with yourself and your teens when expectations run high and chaos feels inevitable. I guide you through grounding practices, Julietta shares practical strategies for involving your kids meaningfully, and Dr. Shefali delivers her signature perspective-shifting wisdom about cultural expectations. If you're feeling overwhelmed by holiday pressure or worried about family dynamics, this conversation will help you reclaim your power and actually enjoy this season. Guest Description Julietta Skoog, a Positive Discipline trainer and our early years lead and parent coach at Sproutable. She has spent extensive time in schools as a school counselor and school psychologist. She’s a sought after expert facilitating parents and educators world-wide. Julietta practices what she preaches with her own three kiddos. Dr. Shefali Tsabary received her doctorate in clinical psychology from Columbia University. She specializes in the integration of western psychology and eastern philosophy, bringing together the best of both worlds for her clients. She is an expert in family dynamics and personal development, teaching courses around the globe. Dr. Shefali’s written four books, three of which are NYT best sellers, including “The Conscious Parent” and “The Awakened Family.” Find more info and show notes at: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-535-holiday-presence-connection-with-dr-shefali/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

During this week's solo show, I am digging back into one of the biggest parenting struggles: the illusion of control. As a parent educator with nearly 20 years of experience, I'm breaking down why trying to control our teens backfires and how shifting to influence transforms everything. Learn why getting out of your teen's way doesn't mean permissive parenting, how to move from the driver's seat to the passenger seat, and why relationship-centered parenting beats rewards and consequences every time. If you're struggling with power struggles, school avoidance, or screen time battles, this episode offers a completely different approach that actually works. For more show notes and info go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-332-solo-show-the-challenges-of-giving-up-control-with-our-teens/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, I sit down with Nicole Runyon, a child psychotherapist with 22 years of experience and author of "Free to Fly." We tackle some uncomfortable truths about modern parenting—how our well-intentioned approaches might actually be contributing to our kids' struggles. Nicole shares why children are "canaries in the coal mine," sending us messages through their behavior about toxic environments (yes, including screens). We discuss the misunderstood concept of gentle parenting, why therapy isn't always the answer, and how natural consequences build resilience. If you're exhausted from hovering and rescuing, this conversation will help you reclaim your authority with love. Nicole offers practical wisdom about allowing discomfort—both yours and theirs—to foster true independence. For more show notes and info, go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-632-therapy-may-not-be-the-answer-for-discouraged-teens-with-nicole-runyon/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this solo show replay, I'm reflecting on what life teaches us through the messiness of parenting teens, navigating marriage, and building a business. In this vulnerable episode, I share three powerful lessons from each area of my life—from recognizing that our teens know what they want, to learning that surrender isn't giving up but meeting life as it unfolds. Whether you're struggling with connection, feeling burned out, or questioning your parenting, this episode reminds you that flexibility, self-care, and trust in the process aren't optional—they're essential. Listen to discover how intentional soul care and choosing growth over resistance can transform your journey. For more info and show notes for this episode at: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-253-solo-show-three-things/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this week's interview episode, I sit down with licensed therapist Katie May to discuss one of parenthood's hardest challenges: supporting teens through self-destructive behaviors and overwhelming emotions. Katie, founder of Creative Healing Teen Support Centers and author of "You're On Fire, It's Fine," shares proven DBT strategies that actually work. We dive deep into mood-dependent behavior, validation techniques, and why your nervous system regulation matters more than you think. If you're watching your teen struggle with anxiety, self-harm, or suicidal thoughts and feel helpless about how to help without making things worse, this conversation will leave you feeling seen, empowered, and genuinely hopeful about what's possible. For more show notes and info go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-630-help-for-the-self-destructive-teen-with-katie-may/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this Thanksgiving replay episode, I'm reflecting on gratitude during challenging times—and trust me, 2020 tested us all. I share how we can be grateful not for our struggles, but for who we become when we choose to grow through them. You'll hear about the spiral of personal growth and why we keep facing the same challenges (spoiler: we're different each time). I discuss self-regulation, staying centered when life knocks us off balance, and how to allow experiences to change us for the better. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, I sit down with Marielle Melling to explore the invisible forces driving our least favorite parenting moments and how to interrupt them. We dive deep into the gap between knowing better and actually doing better, discussing what Marielle calls our "bottom underlying truth" (BUT)—what we're really making important in heated moments with our teens. Marielle shares practical, actionable tools for pausing before reacting and aligning our actions with our deepest values. If you want to move from reactive to intentional parenting and create the connection you truly desire with your teen, this conversation offers real clarity and transformative steps you can start using today. Marielle Melling is a parent educator, author, and founder of Extraordinary Family Relationships who helps parents move from conflict to connection with their teens. With a degree in health education and as a mom of five (ages 7-17), she brings both professional expertise and real-life experience to her work. Marielle is the author of Peace Amidst the Mayhem and The BUT Book, which explores the gap between what parents know and what they actually do in challenging moments. Through her relatable teaching style and genuine care, she guides parents to discover their "bottom underlying truth"—what truly matters most—so they can respond intentionally rather than reactively. Marielle also hosts an annual parenting summit and runs The Mom Spot membership, where she supports parents in transforming ordinary family relationships into extraordinary ones through deep connection and radical self-acceptance. For more info and show notes, go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-628-interrupting-parenting-patterns-with-marielle-melling/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I'm sharing some things that are deeply personal today about navigating life's hardest moments—from my daughter's mental health struggles to my husband's cancer diagnosis. This episode isn't about parenting strategies; it's about the inner work of choosing how we meet each moment. I'll walk you through my five-step process for staying present and intentional when everything feels overwhelming: self-awareness, willingness, breath, embodiment, and repeat. Whether you're facing challenges with your teen, relationship struggles, or health crises, this conversation explores how to create connection, ease, and trust in your present moment. Because that's all we really have—right here, right now. For more show notes, go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-627-the-inner-work-of-intentional-parenting/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this eye-opening episode, I explore functional mushrooms and adaptogens with my friend Nicole Erdrich from Four Peaks Medicinals. We demystify how these powerful organisms support parents through stress, brain fog, and the unique challenges of midlife. Nicole shares practical insights on lion's mane for cognitive function, turkey tail for immune support, and adaptogens that naturally balance your stress response. We also discuss microdosing protocols and how mushroom wellness can enhance your parenting journey. If you're a parent of teens navigating perimenopause, anxiety, or simply seeking natural wellness alternatives, this conversation offers research-backed strategies and actionable steps for reclaiming your vitality. Nicole is a mushroom wellness advocate and owner of Four Peaks Medicinals, a women-owned functional mushroom company based in Northern California. She specializes in educating people about functional mushrooms, adaptogens, and microdosing protocols, working alongside her team to provide personalized wellness consultations. Nicole's mission extends beyond selling products—she's committed to spreading joy through mushroom medicine while supporting local growers and maintaining the highest quality standards. She travels to music festivals, yoga studios, and community spaces teaching people how to integrate mushroom wellness into their daily lives, believing that mushrooms offer humanity a path toward better mental health and deeper connection. Find more show notes and info at: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-626-functional-mushrooms-demystified-with-nicole-erdrich/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Building a strong parenting foundation with teens isn't about quick fixes—it's about creating a supportive container for their growth. In this replay episode, I break down my "House of Positive Discipline" framework, starting with the most critical piece: your own personal development. From there, we layer in relationship-building, systems and routines, and finally those in-the-moment tools you need. This isn't about having all the answers; it's about understanding how these pieces work together to support your teen's journey while strengthening your connection. If you're navigating the messy terrain of adolescence, this episode offers a practical roadmap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feeling overwhelmed by college admissions? I sat down with David Blobaum, a national test prep expert, to demystify the entire process. We discuss how test-optional policies really work, what admissions officers actually look for, and why prestigious schools aren't always the best choice. David shares insider secrets like using the Common Data Set to decode admissions criteria and understanding when to submit (or skip) test scores. Most importantly, we shift the focus from just getting in to ensuring your teen graduates and thrives. If you're navigating college applications with your teenager, this conversation will ground you in what truly matters. Find more show notes at https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-624-college-admission-truths-with-david-blobaum/ Learn more about 2025 Living Joyful Courage Coaching Week at www.besproutable.com/ljccoachweek Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I'm sharing something crucial about setting boundaries with teens that most parents miss. When our teenagers push back against our "no," our nervous systems can get completely hijacked by their anger and disappointment. In this episode, I break down the neuroscience of what happens in these heated moments and offer practical tools using curiosity and validation to stay grounded. I'll show you how to hold firm boundaries while maintaining connection, even when your teen is furious. If saying "no, not yet" feels impossible without losing your cool or caving completely, this episode will transform how you navigate these tough conversations with confidence. Find more show notes and info at: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-623-saying-no-to-our-teens/ Sign up for Living Joyful Courage Coaching Week at: https://www.besproutable.com/ljccoachweek/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, I sit down with my son Ian, a college sophomore, for an honest conversation about navigating college life in 2025. We discuss communication strategies between parents and college students, balancing academics and social life, managing finances and groceries, maintaining health and wellness, and building independence. Ian shares what goes through his mind when I reach out, how he stays organized, and his advice for parents wondering what their college kids are really up to. This candid mother-son conversation offers valuable insights for parents of teens preparing for or already in college, revealing what works and what doesn't in staying connected. For more show notes go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-622-college-reality-check-from-my-son/ For more information and to enroll in the Living Joyful Courage Coaching Week, go to: https://www.besproutable.com/ljccoachweek/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I'm diving deep into the messy, beautiful work of parenting teens with intention and compassion. In this episode, I explore why changing our parenting patterns feels so hard (hint: it's like forging a new path through the forest), how to practice non-attachment while staying fiercely committed, and the power of pausing to check in with ourselves throughout the day. I share real talk about trusting your gut, honoring your family's unique journey, and remembering that whatever challenge you're facing right now is just one snapshot in the bigger picture. Perfect for parents seeking connection over control. For more show notes and info go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-466-consciously-practicing-connection-curiosity-and-presence-with-ourselves-and-others/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As a parent coach working with families for over 20 years, I've learned that raising teenagers requires us to pause before reacting. In this episode, I sit down with meditation expert Katie Krimitsos to discuss how mindfulness helps parents navigate adolescent chaos without making things worse. Katie shares practical ways to go within, manage parental anxiety, and stay grounded when your teen's choices trigger you. If you're struggling with teen defiance, school issues, or feeling overwhelmed, this conversation offers accessible tools for staying present during your teen's most challenging moments. For show notes and more info, go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-620-meditation-as-a-parenting-tool-with-katie-krimitsos/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I'm diving deep into teaching life skills to teens—from driving and money management to cooking and getting their first job. If you're stressed about whether your teen is "ready" to launch, this episode is for you. I share how I navigated the messy middle of raising two very different kids, why mistakes are actually gifts, and how to stop micromanaging and start believing in your teen's ability to figure things out. Learn when to step in, when to let go, and how shifting from "this is who my kid is" to "this is where they are" changes everything. Perfect for parents of teens aged 13-18. For full transcript and show notes: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-619-life-skills-for-launching-teens/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I sat down with pediatric psychologist Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart to discuss her groundbreaking new book about transforming teen conflict into connection. We explored rejection sensitivity in teens with ADHD, perfectionism and procrastination, and why our adolescents shut down or explode over simple feedback. Dr. Lockhart shares practical strategies for parents struggling with teens who feel misunderstood, offering compassionate approaches to building bridges instead of walking on eggshells. If you're parenting a tween or teen who seems unreachable, or you're tired of everything feeling like a battle, this conversation offers hope and actionable guidance for reconnecting with your child. Find more info about my guest and show notes at: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-618-loving-the-teen-you-have-with-dr-ann-louise-lockhart Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this replay episode, I'm getting real about having the courage to let go as our teens approach adulthood. I share my own journey parenting two very different kids. I talk about why our teens need space to develop crucial life skills like organization, time management, and problem-solving before they leave home. It's not just about getting them to college; it's preparing them to thrive there. I offer practical tools like family meetings, regular check-ins, and emotional honesty to help you build the connection that makes letting go possible. Let's navigate this together. For more info and show notes, go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-339-solo-having-the-courage-to-let-go/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this eye-opening conversation, I speak with pediatric sleep expert Jessica Bryant about the silent epidemic affecting our teenagers: chronic sleep deprivation. We uncover how overscheduled lives, screens, and caffeine are stealing the 8-10 hours teens desperately need—and how sleep loss mimics mental health issues, tanks academic performance by 40%, and threatens their developing brains. Jessica shares actionable strategies parents can implement tonight: creating wind-down routines, modeling healthy sleep habits, and setting boundaries around devices and activities. Your teen's success, mood, and wellbeing literally depend on sleep. This conversation could change everything—don't wait until it's too late. Find out more about the guest and complete show notes at https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-616-teen-sleep-solutions-with-jessica-bryant-what-parents-need-to-know/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today I'm sharing powerful insights that transformed how I navigated my teens' adolescent years—and they're thriving now in college because of it. If you're caught between wanting control and knowing you need to let go, this episode is your lifeline. I break down the critical differences between boundaries, rules, and agreements, and why getting this wrong keeps you stuck in power struggles. Your teen's brain is wiring for independence RIGHT NOW, and the approach you take today determines whether they launch successfully or struggle. I'm giving you the exact framework that helps parents move from conflict to collaboration before it's too late. For more show notes and info, go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-615-end-the-power-struggles-boundaries-rules-agreements-for-teens/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today is a replay - I'm diving into one of the biggest challenges we face as parents of teens: letting go of energetic responsibility. If you're exhausted from holding the weight of your teen's schoolwork, choices, and future while they seem to coast along, this episode is for you. I'll explain why our kids can't truly learn responsibility until we stop carrying it for them, share my own raw story about my daughter and vaping, and give you the tools to stay connected without taking over. Learn how to hand back what's theirs—their grades, their motivation, their consequences—while still showing up with love and faith. It's messy, it's hard, but it's the path to raising capable young adults. For more info and show notes go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-372-solo-energetic-responsibility-teens/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of the Joyful Courage Podcast, I'm breaking down how to build real trust with your teenager—the kind where they believe you when you say "you can tell me anything." It's not about what we say, but how we show up when mistakes happen. I share practical ways to stay calm during the hard conversations, validation techniques that work, and how our daily micro-moments cement safety. If you want your teen to come to you first (not last) when they're in trouble, this episode gives you the roadmap for becoming their soft landing during adolescence. For more info and show notes, go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/episode-613-how-to-be-the-parent-your-teen-actually-turns-to/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of Joyful Courage, I sit down with Emily Redondo, a mom, author, and survivor of addiction, to talk about the messy, beautiful reality of parenting. We dive into how shame, regret, and perfectionism can hold us back—and how modeling courage and embracing mistakes are powerful models for our kids. Emily shares her experience with recovery, self-forgiveness, and building honest relationships with her children, even through discomfort. This conversation is packed with insights on autonomy, navigating teen years, and showing up authentically as a parent. For more show notes and info go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-612-emily-redondo-on-recovery-family/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Part four of my Middle School Mini Series is here! In this episode, I share powerful Positive Discipline tools that build connection and courage with your tween or teen. From family meetings and special time, to curiosity, validation, encouragement, and rituals—these practices create belonging and strengthen relationships during the messy middle school years. Parenting in adolescence isn’t about perfection, it’s about presence, connection, and long-term growth. If you’ve been craving practical strategies and heartfelt encouragement, this is the episode for you. Tune in and let’s navigate middle school parenting together with courage and curiosity. Parents, you don’t want to miss this! For more show notes, resources and info, go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-611-middle-school-series-part-four-connection-and-courage/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this powerful episode of the Joyful Courage Podcast, I sit down with certified peer recovery specialist, family consultant, TEDx, speaker and author Lisa Katona Smith to talk about how parents can stay calm, connected, and effective when teens experiment with substances, in active addiction, recovery or face big struggles. We explore Lisa’s Parallel Recovery approach — staying regulated, setting clear limits, and leading with curiosity instead of panic. You’ll learn why “detaching with love” isn’t enough, how to avoid piling your emotional “coat” onto your kids, and practical scripts for hard conversations. If you’re parenting tweens or teens through stress, substance use, or mental health challenges, this episode is a must-listen. For more show notes and info, go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-610-lisa-katona-smith-talks-teen-substance-use/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Middle school is the perfect training ground for life skills — and in part three of the Middle School Series on Joyful Courage, I’m sharing how we can guide our tweens and teens as they practice the tools they’ll need for independence, resilience, and healthy relationships. From self-regulation and problem solving to organization, time management, communication, and self-advocacy, I unpack why these skills are still developing, why mistakes matter, and how we can model calm, curiosity, and confidence as they learn. Tune in for encouragement and practical tips to help your kids grow through the ups and downs of adolescence. Find more show notes and info at https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-609-middle-school-series-part-3-life-skills-to-nurture/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this week’s Joyful Courage Podcast, I sit down with therapist and author Sophia Vale Galano to talk about helping teens manage anxiety while staying grounded as parents. We explore how to meet our kids with empathy, guide them toward support without fixing, and keep conversations about mental health open and natural. Sophia offers practical tools from her book Calming Teenage Anxiety plus fresh insight on resilience, therapy, and when to seek extra help. If you’re ready to feel steadier and more connected as you support your teen, tune in and get inspired by this compassionate, hopeful conversation. For more info and show notes, go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-608-calming-teenage-anxiety-with-sophia-vale-galano/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Parenting teens in the digital age is no small task. In this episode, I talk with Jean Twenge about the realities of screen time, social media, and AI. We dive into why it’s important to own our mistakes, set clear limits, and remember that phones are a privilege—not a right. Jean shares real-life examples from her own family, and we get into the challenges of parental controls, pushback from teens, and how to encourage critical thinking around tech use. This conversation is packed with practical insight and encouragement for parents navigating today’s digital landscape. For more show notes and info go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-607-dr-jean-twenge-and-the-10-rules-for-tech-with-teens/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, I dive into the tough but essential conversations we need to be having with our middle schoolers — around tech, social media, consent, substances, mental health, and more. I remind parents that silence doesn’t protect our kids; it leaves them to figure things out through peers or the internet. Instead, we can lead with curiosity, plant small conversational seeds, and revisit these topics over time. Our job isn’t to have the perfect talk, it’s to show up again and again with openness, honesty, and love. Staying connected is the key to guiding them forward. For more show notes and resources go to https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-606-middle-school-series-part-two-essential-conversations Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Middle school is a wild ride — bodies changing, moods shifting, friendships evolving, and parents wondering how to keep up. In this first episode of my four-part middle school series, I unpack the developmental landscape of early adolescence and share how we can shift from managing to mentoring our kids. Listen in for insight on belonging, peer influence, critical thinking, and why curiosity is your greatest parenting tool during these years. You’ll also get practical conversation starters for tough topics like tech, sex, and mental health. Middle school can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Let’s navigate it together. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices