Mothers of Boys Survival Guide

Raising kids online can feel overwhelming—especially with AI, gaming, and social media changing faster than most parents can keep up. In our latest Mothers of Boys Survival Guide podcast, I sit down with a cybersecurity expert and mom of three boys to talk about what parents really need to know about online risks today—from predators and scams to AI and digital privacy. This is a calm, practical conversation about: ✔️ Teaching good cyber hygiene ✔️ Having ongoing conversations (without fear or overreaction) ✔️ Helping kids stay safe and confident online If you’re parenting boys—or kids of any gender in a digital world—I hope this episode is helpful. Please feel free to share it with another parent who might need it. 💙 🎧 Listen here: mothersofboys.life/cyber-smart #MOBsurvivalguide #ParentingInTheDigitalAge #CyberSmartKids #BoyMomLife #ParentingTeens #DigitalSafety

Parenting teen boys can feel like a daily power struggle—especially when emotions run high, and the stakes feel scary. This is Part 2 of my conversation with parenting coach Casey O’Roarty, host of the Joyful Courage podcast. Around here, I call the mothers of boys the MOB, and this is where we talk honestly about raising sons and what actually helps. In this episode, we dig into the real-life challenges parents face with teen boys, including screens, privacy, vaping, risky behavior, and how to stay grounded when everything in your body wants to react. If you’re trying to stay connected with your teen without making things worse, this conversation is for you. In this episode, we cover: Why self-regulation matters more than problem-solving in heated moments How fear and catastrophizing show up in parenting teens Talking about vaping and nicotine without turning it into a power struggle Privacy, trust, and the “Submarine Parent” approach Why curiosity works better than catching teens Technology, gaming, and teen social life Creating digital wellness and setting screen limits When to drop the rope and step out of power struggles A simple parenting mantra for the teen years 🎧 Looking for Part 1? Be sure to check out the first half of this conversation for foundational strategies on connection and boundaries. 📚 Resources & links – Joyful Courage podcast – Joyful Courage: Calming the Drama and Taking Control of Your Parenting Journey – More episodes and resources at mothersofboys.life #ParentingTeenBoys #TeenBoys #RaisingBoys #BoyMom #TeenParenting #PositiveDiscipline #MothersOfBoys #MOBsurvivalguide #JoyfulCourage #ParentingPodcast 📚 Grab Suzy Shaw’s Mothers of Boys Survival Guide 🔗 Visit http://motherofboys.life for resources, links, and more. 📌 Subscribe for more parenting tips and support for raising boys! ⭐⭐⭐ Mothers of Boys Survival Guide Podcast ⭐⭐⭐ https://mothersofboys.life/podcasts

Parenting teen boys can feel like one long power struggle—especially when they’re growing fast and pulling away.  In Part 1 of our conversation on the Mothers of Boys Survival Guide podcast, I’m joined by Casey O’Roarty—host of the Joyful Courage podcast and a trusted voice in teen parenting. We talk honestly about why the teen years are supposed to be messy, how power struggles sneak in, and what actually helps moms stay connected and influential (without losing their cool). This episode focuses on mindset shifts, language changes, and why caring for yourself is not optional—it’s essential. Listen to Part 2 for more practical tools and strategies. #MOBsurvivalguide #ParentingTeenBoys #BoyMomLife #TeenParenting #PositiveDiscipline #RaisingBoys 📚 Resources & links – Joyful Courage podcast – Joyful Courage: Calming the Drama and Taking Control of Your Parenting Journey – More episodes and resources at mothersofboys.life 📚 Grab Suzy Shaw’s Mothers of Boys Survival Guide 🔗 Visit http://motherofboys.life for resources, links, and more. 📌 Subscribe for more parenting tips and support for raising boys! ⭐⭐⭐ Mothers of Boys Survival Guide Podcast ⭐⭐⭐ https://mothersofboys.life/podcasts

Many boys who struggle to read aren’t lazy or unmotivated — their brains are wired differently. In this episode of Mothers of Boys Survival Guide, Suzy Shaw talks with dyslexia expert Russell Van Brocklen about the early signs of dyslexia in boys, why it’s often missed in school, and practical ways parents can support their child at home and advocate for the right accommodations. If you’ve been told to “wait and see,” this conversation offers clarity, hope, and real strategies you can use now. 👉 Watch, share, and subscribe for more support for boy moms.

Teen boys are… a mystery. One minute sweet, the next minute grunting, eye-rolling, or insisting they’re “fine” while their world is clearly on fire.  In this week’s Mothers of Boys Survival Guide podcast, I’m joined again by psychologist Dr. Gloria Vanderhorst, and we dig into what’s actually happening inside the brains and hearts of our pre-teens, teens, and young men. We talk about: ✔️ Why communication gets harder ✔️ Power struggles (and how to survive them) ✔️ Lying, embarrassment, and shutdowns ✔️ Teen risk-taking (hello, cliff-jumping 😳) ✔️ Rituals that help boys open up ✔️ How to stay connected—even when they’re off at college, ignoring your calls If you’re raising a teen boy, this episode is your emotional life raft. Give it a listen and share it with another boy mom who needs a little solidarity today.

Why do young boys sometimes shut down or struggle to express what they feel? Psychologist Dr. Gloria Vanderhorst joins the Mothers of Boys Survival Guide to explore the emotional world of boys and how parents can help young boys use their words instead of their fists or feet. Dr. Vanderhorst explains how boys develop emotional intelligence differently from girls, why they often communicate through action rather than language, and how small changes in our responses can build lasting trust and confidence. From classroom frustrations to grocery store meltdowns, this episode offers real-world parenting advice and a deeper understanding of how to raise emotionally strong, self-aware young men. Perfect for any parent who’s ever wondered what’s really going on behind their son’s silence—or his shouting.

Divorce isn’t just a legal process — it’s an emotional earthquake. And when you’re a mom trying to protect your kids (especially boys, who are more emotional than you think), the pressure can feel next-level. In this week’s episode of the Mothers of Boys Survival Guide, I sat down with Lisa Johnson, a certified domestic-violence advocate and co-founder of Been There, Got Out. After a decade fighting through a high-conflict divorce, she now helps parents stay grounded, protect their kids, and navigate toxic co-parenting dynamics without losing their sanity. We talk about: Early red flags of a high-conflict divorce How to protect your kids from emotional manipulation The 10-minute connection rule every mom should know Supporting boys who internalize stress and anger Smart communication & documentation strategies Finding the right support — for you and your kids This episode isn’t doom-and-gloom. It’s truth, strength, and real tools for moms who are fighting to stay strong and raise resilient boys through messy chapters of life. You are not alone in this. 💛  

🎮 Is your son obsessed with Roblox, Minecraft, or Fortnite? You’re not alone! In this week’s episode of The Mothers of Boys Survival Guide podcast, Suzy and Cheryl talk with Matt Highland, former teacher and co-founder of Hackingtons.com, about what every mom should know about gaming. From screen time limits and online safety to turning gaming into real-world coding skills, this episode is packed with insight (and a few laughs). Gaming isn’t the enemy — It’s today’s playground for creativity, problem-solving, and social connection. Roblox is a platform, not a game — Kids can build, code, and even earn money creating games within it. Screen time ≠ wasted time — With guidance, gaming can develop real-world skills like coding, teamwork, and strategy. Safety starts with connection — Talk openly with your kids, set boundaries, and model healthy tech habits. Encourage creators, not just consumers — Help your kids channel their love of gaming into learning, building, and innovating. 👉 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform or at MothersOfBoys.life.

Childhood vaccines raise some of the biggest questions parents face. In this episode of the Mothers of Boys Survival Guide, host Suzy Shaw welcomes back retired pediatrician Dr. Barnaby Starr, who spent decades guiding families with trusted, practical advice. Together, they cover everything from newborn vaccines like Hepatitis B to school and teen immunizations including MMR, HPV, meningococcal, flu, and COVID-19. Dr. Starr explains how vaccines work, what side effects parents should expect, and why herd immunity is so critical. Packed with clarity and compassion, this conversation helps parents feel more confident navigating vaccine decisions for their children.

Adoption isn’t the finish line—it’s the beginning of a lifelong journey. In this episode of the Mothers of Boys Survival Guide, Suzy Shaw and Cheryl Bohn sit down with Ryan Hanlon, PhD, President & CEO of the National Council for Adoption, to talk about what happens after a child comes home. From building attachment and supporting siblings to navigating schools, subsidies, and long-term resources, this conversation unpacks both the challenges and the joys of life after adoption. Whether you’re preparing to adopt or already parenting, you’ll find practical strategies, encouragement, and expert insight to help guide your family.

Thinking about adoption but not sure where to start? Suzy Shaw and co-host Cheryl Bohn sit down with Ryan Hanlon, PhD—President & CEO of the National Council for Adoption (NCFA)—to cover what every mom should ask before adopting. We get real about eligibility, timelines, costs, open vs. closed adoption, medical info, choosing an agency, and how to know if your family is truly ready. Clear, practical, zero fluff. Guest: Ryan Hanlon, PhD (NCFA) — adoptioncouncil.org In this episode you’ll learn: Eligibility criteria by adoption type and state Foster care vs. private domestic vs. international: timelines & costs What “open” adoption actually looks like today Medical/background info you can expect—and how to evaluate it Questions to decide if you’re ready (as a couple and as a family) How to find an ethical, well-matched agency If this helped, share it with a mom who’s considering adoption—and follow the Mothers of Boys Survival Guide for next week’s part two on life after the adoption.

From high school practices to college recruiting, the demands on our boys (and us moms!) ramp up fast.  In our latest episode of the Mothers of Boys Survival Guide, Coach Matt Hogan shares what every parent needs to know about: ✔️ The real time commitment in high school sports ✔️ When recruiting actually starts (hint: later than you think) ✔️ Highlight reels, prospect camps & how not to waste money ✔️ Balancing academics and athletics for the long game Matt’s a former college and high school coach, sports dad of two, and the leader of the Annapolis Hawks Club Lacrosse Program.  💬 Drop a comment if your son is navigating high school sports—we’d love to hear your experience!

Beyond Chicken Nuggets If you’ve ever bribed your kid with dessert, begged them to “just take one bite,” or watched them live exclusively on goldfish crackers… this one’s for you. 🙋‍♀️ In this week’s Mothers of Boys Survival Guide podcast, we’re joined by Jacqueline Stern, registered dietitian and founder of Annapolis Nutrition, who helps parents take the stress out of mealtimes. We talk about: 👉 Why picky eating happens (and when it’s more than just a phase) 👉 How to stop food battles before they start 👉 Packing stress-free snacks for school, camp, and playdates 👉 The simple mantra every parent needs: one bite at a time Mealtime doesn’t have to be a battlefield. Tune in and discover how to raise confident, healthy eaters without losing your sanity.  🎧 Listen Now

Do you have a son who avoids reading like it’s a chore? You’re not alone—and this episode is packed with support and solutions. We’re joined by literacy expert and fellow boy mom Dr. Jessica Hovland, who shares real talk and practical tips for helping boys become more confident readers. From bedtime routines and graphic novels to Minecraft books and reading to the dog 🐶—you’ll walk away with strategies you can use today. Whether your son is just starting to read or facing challenges in middle or high school, this episode is for you. 💙 🎙 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform 📘 Grab the book: Mothers of Boys Survival Guide 🌐 Join the community: MothersOfBoys.life

Bracing for Takeoff: When Your Son Leaves the Nest Is your son gearing up to leave for college—or already out the door with a box of ramen and a half-packed first aid kit?  In this episode of the Mothers of Boys Survival Guide, we talk with mom Rebecca Vandall about the emotional ups, downs, and unexpected wins of launching a son into adulthood.  We cover: ✅ How to stay connected without hovering ✅ What to pack (and what sparks dorm friendships!) ✅ Navigating homesickness, independence, and sibling shifts ✅ Real-life strategies like “Proof of Life Money” and care package parties ✅ Reclaiming time for yourself and rediscovering your identity post-launch Whether your son is weeks from move-in day or you're just beginning to imagine it, this conversation is full of relatable stories, expert insights, and laugh-out-loud moments. 🎙 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform 📘 Grab the book: Mothers of Boys Survival Guide 🌐 Join the community: MothersOfBoys.life

Battle-Tested: 10 Parenting Tips Every Boy Mom Wants to Know What do you get when you raise 7 kids (4 boys) and survive to tell the tale? A whole lot of wisdom — and even more heart. 💙 This week on the Mothers of Boys Survival Guide, Suzy and Cheryl sit down with Mary Pat Gaeng, a mom of 7 and grandmother of 6, to share the 10 boy mom truths she’s learned the hard way. Learn why physical affection matters more than you think Find out how to stop power struggles in their tracks Discover the power of simple meals and shared responsibility Hear why raising a good human matters more than raising a “typical boy” Whether you're in the toddler trenches or navigating teen years, this episode is packed with relatable stories, practical tips, and encouragement that will meet you right where you are. 🎙 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform 📘 Grab the book: Mothers of Boys Survival Guide 🌐 Join the community: MothersOfBoys.life

Purposeful Play: Raising Boys Who Learn by Doing Is your son always on the move, building, pretending, or turning life into a game? You’re not alone—and it’s not just play, it’s purposeful learning! In this inspiring episode of the Mothers of Boys Survival Guide, veteran kindergarten teacher and boy mom Kathy Baer joins Suzy Shaw and Cheryl Bohn to break down how purposeful play builds brain development, supports emotional growth, and teaches vital life skills like communication, collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking. 💡 Discover how simple activities—like playing with a cardboard box—can spark imagination, boost confidence, and even improve learning outcomes. 👦 Hear powerful stories from Kathy’s 36 years in the classroom (including one that might bring you to tears). 🏠 Get creative ideas for summer play that doesn’t require fancy toys or nonstop supervision. 🎙 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform 📘 Grab the book: Mothers of Boys Survival Guide 🌐 Join the community: MothersOfBoys.life

Raising Boys with Brains in Mind: A Guide to Their Development What’s really going on inside your son’s head? In this episode, international speaker and bestselling author Mike Kuczala joins Suzy Shaw and Cheryl Bohn to explore how boys’ brains develop—from birth through adolescence—and why movement is essential to their growth and learning. From kinesthetic learning to puberty and screen time, Mike explains how physical activity, emotional support, and environment shape boys’ ability to focus, thrive, and mature. Whether you're raising a toddler or navigating the teenage “man cub” years, this conversation will help you better understand, support, and connect with your son at every stage. 🎧 Listen for expert insights, practical parenting tips, and science-backed strategies you can use at home. 🎙 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform 📘 Grab the book: Mothers of Boys Survival Guide 🌐 Join the community: MothersOfBoys.life

🎙️ Postpartum Depression: What New Moms Really Go Through In this eye-opening episode of the Mothers of Boys Survival Guide podcast, psychologist and mom of five Dr. Kimberly Scipione joins us to break the silence around postpartum depression. We talk about: ✔️ The difference between baby blues and clinical PPD ✔️ Why social media fuels unrealistic expectations ✔️ When to seek help—and how partners can support ✔️ Effective therapies and how long recovery really takes Whether you're a new mom, a partner, or someone who cares about maternal mental health, this episode is for you. 🔔 Subscribe and listen now to support honest, empowering conversations for mothers everywhere. 🎙 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform 📘 Grab the book: Mothers of Boys Survival Guide 🌐 Join the community: MothersOfBoys.life

New baby in the house? Feeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone. In this episode of The Mothers of Boys Survival Guide, we talk with an experienced pediatric nurse (and mom of six!) about what really happens after delivery. From postpartum recovery and hormones to feeding stress and emotional ups and downs — this is the real talk every mom needs to hear. Whether you’re in the thick of it or supporting someone who is, this episode is full of comfort, clarity, and expert advice. 💙👶 🎙 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform 📘 Grab the book: Mothers of Boys Survival Guide 🌐 Join the community: MothersOfBoys.life