Joyful Courage for Parenting Teens

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