18 Summers: Podcast for Parents

Is the goal of parenting to keep our children happy? While it sounds like a noble objective, prioritizing constant happiness might actually be doing more harm than good. In this episode, we dive into the "happiness trap" and explore why a range of emotions, including disappointment and sadness is essential for a child's development. We break down the danger of over-scheduling, the necessity of failure, and why treating your children "equally" might actually be unfair. We discuss: The Happiness Myth: Why setting a benchmark for constant happiness puts immense pressure on children and makes them feel like something is wrong when they feel down. Failing Forward: How protecting kids from failure creates weak adults, and why risk-management is a vital life skill. The Fairness Trap: Why "equal treatment" isn't always the goal and how to navigate different needs among siblings without the guilt. The Gift of Boredom: The cultural obsession with "busy" kids and why an over-scheduled child misses out on creativity and self-regulation. Favoritism vs. Support: Redefining "favorites" as simply giving your "biggest light" to the child who needs it most in the moment. Join us as we question these common parenting beliefs and shift the focus from raising "happy" kids to raising resilient, prepared, and emotionally intelligent human beings.

Imagine walking past your teen's room and hearing them talk… but it's not to a friend. It's to AI. AI is not stealing our kids' relationships. It's doing something more subtle. It's making it easier to avoid building them. In this episode, Jamie and Jim tackle one of the biggest parenting questions of the last year: how do we guide our kids in a world where AI is always available, always responsive, and never judging? They explore the real danger, not the tool itself, but emotional outsourcing, intimacy without risk, and replacing uncomfortable growth with instant feedback. AI can be powerful. It can be useful. But it cannot replace human connection, discernment, and real conversation. If you are raising kids in today's digital world, this is a conversation you cannot ignore. Key takeaways to listen for Why AI feels like the "perfect friend" for teens The risk of emotional outsourcing and intimacy without vulnerability How constant feedback prevents real integration and growth Why garbage in, garbage out matters more than ever The importance of keeping humans as the first line of support How to set healthy boundaries around nighttime tech use Why discernment from a parent can never be replaced by a machine Resources Start by setting clear tech boundaries in your home. Keep phones out of bedrooms at night. Create tech-free spaces for connection. Have open conversations about how AI works and what it can and cannot provide. To learn more about building stronger connection inside your family, visit www.18summers.com and explore tools designed to help you lead your home with intention. About Jamie & Jim Sheils Jamie and Jim Sheils are the founders of 18 Summers, a movement dedicated to helping families build stronger relationships in a rapidly changing world. As parents of five, they focus on emotional intelligence, communication, and family culture. Through retreats, books, and honest conversations, they equip parents to stay connected to their kids even as technology evolves. Connect with Us Website: www.18summers.com Email: info@18summers.com Get a copy of "The Family Board Meeting" to learn how to create intentional rituals that strengthen trust and communication at home. Subscribe to the 18 Summers Podcast and leave a rating and written review to help more parents navigate AI and parenting with clarity and confidence.

Blending a family is not magical at first. It's two entire worlds trying to share one kitchen, one routine, and one emotional landscape. In this episode, Jamie and Jim break down the biggest mistake blended families make: trying to force the "we're one big happy family now" moment. They share the simple framework from The Family Board Meeting that helped them build trust, safety, and belonging inside their home. Blending does not happen through pressure. It happens through consistency, presence, and courage. If you're navigating step-parenting, adoption, or remarriage, this conversation will give you a grounded starting point. Key takeaways to listen for Why forcing connection actually delays bonding The power of intentional one-on-one time How tech distraction quietly damages trust Why the parent must go first in vulnerability The importance of never speaking poorly about other parental counterparts How 4 to 6 weeks of consistency can shift the entire home dynamic Resources Want practical tools for building trust and communication in your home? Grab a copy of "The Family Board Meeting" and start implementing the three simple pillars discussed in this episode. Visit www.18summers.com to explore more family leadership tools and conversations. About Jamie & Jim Sheils Jamie and Jim Sheils are the founders of 18 Summers and co-authors of The Family Board Meeting. As parents of five in a blended family, they've walked the challenges of step-parenting, adoption, and remarriage firsthand. Through books, retreats, and honest conversations, they equip families to build trust, deepen connection, and lead their homes with intention. Connect with Us Website: www.18summers.com Email: info@18summers.com Subscribe to the 18 Summers Podcast and leave a rating and written review to help more blended families build strong foundations.

Family trips are supposed to be magical. So why do they sometimes feel messy, chaotic, and completely exhausting? In this episode, Jamie and Jim unpack the real reasons parents avoid traveling with their kids. From schedule disruptions and budget fears to airport meltdowns and unexpected emergencies, they share honest stories from years of traveling as a growing family of seven. The truth? Travel is rarely perfect. But it builds something far more valuable than comfort. It builds culture, resilience, perspective, and shared stories that shape your family for life. If you've ever wondered whether the stress is worth it, this conversation will change how you see family adventure. Key takeaways to listen for Why "too stressful" is often just unmanaged expectations How messy travel moments become the most powerful memories Why kids remember more than you think The real cost of waiting until life feels convenient How to create buy-in so everyone feels invested in the adventure Why nothing is an emergency unless it's truly an emergency Resources Start small. Travel does not have to be international or expensive. A local road trip, camping weekend, or even a day adventure can create powerful family bonding moments. Want to be intentional about how you build your family culture? Visit www.18summers.com to explore tools that help you lead your home with purpose. About Jamie & Jim Sheils Jamie and Jim Sheils are the founders of 18 Summers, a movement focused on helping families create deeper connection and stronger culture. As parents of five, they've built a family life centered around adventure, intentionality, and shared growth. Through retreats, books, and honest conversations, they equip parents to prioritize what truly matters before the 18 summers fly by. Connect with Us Website: www.18summers.com Email: info@18summers.com Grab a copy of "The Family Board Meeting" to learn how to create simple rituals that strengthen communication and connection inside your home. Subscribe to the 18 Summers Podcast and leave a rating and written review to help more families choose connection over convenience.

Thinking about adoption? There are beautiful moments ahead, but there are also myths, pressure, and realities most people never talk about. In this deeply personal episode, Jamie and Jim Sheils share their own adoption journey as a blended family of five children, including adoption at birth and adoption at older ages. They break down the misconceptions, emotional pressures, bonding challenges, and hard conversations every couple needs to have before starting the process. Adoption is not a rescue mission. It is not a shortcut. It is a sacred commitment that requires alignment, preparation, boundaries, and honesty. If you are considering adoption, or know someone who is, this episode is essential listening. Key takeaways to listen for The biggest myths about adoption that create unnecessary pressure Why adoption must be two clear yeses from both partners How trauma, identity, and trust shape the bonding process Why love alone is not enough and what preparation really means The importance of boundaries in open and closed adoption What real attachment looks like and why it takes time Resources If adoption is on your heart, begin by educating yourself on trauma-informed parenting and attachment. Join adoptive and foster support groups, read widely, and connect with families who have walked this path before you. To explore more conversations on intentional parenting and family leadership, visit www.18summers.com . About Jamie & Jim Sheils Jamie and Jim Sheils are the founders of 18 Summers, a movement dedicated to helping families build stronger connections and raise confident, capable kids. As parents who have experienced blended family life, adoption, foster care, and biological parenting, they share honest conversations rooted in real experience. Their work centers on strengthening family culture, developing emotional intelligence, and preparing parents for the responsibilities that truly shape a child's life. Connect with Us Website: www.18summers.com Email: info@18summers.com Get a copy of our book "The Family Board Meeting" to learn how to build intentional rituals that strengthen your family bond. Subscribe to the 18 Summers Podcast and leave a rating and written review to help more families navigate adoption and parenting with clarity and confidence.

Is school actually preparing your kids for real life… or just teaching them how to pass tests? In this episode, Jamie and Jim Sheils unpack the uncomfortable truth about modern education and why some of the most important life skills are never taught in a classroom. From emotional intelligence to financial literacy, they share the three core areas every child needs to thrive personally and professionally and how you can start teaching them at home right now. Key takeaways to listen for The three life skills schools ignore that shape long-term success Why discipline is overrated and devotion is the real driver of mastery How emotional intelligence protects your kids from avoidable struggle A simple family book strategy that builds wisdom and connection Why high grades do not guarantee financial confidence or strong relationships Resources Want to equip your kids with the tools school skips? Start by reading one book together in one of these three areas: personal development, relationship skills, or financial intelligence. Even one shared book can radically shift your family conversations and awareness. To learn more about building intentional family culture, visit www.18summers.com  and explore our resources designed to help families lead with purpose. About Jamie & Jim Sheils Jamie and Jim Sheils are the founders of 18 Summers, a movement dedicated to helping families raise confident, connected, and capable kids. Through live events, retreats, books, and conversations with world-class thinkers, they focus on what truly prepares children for life beyond school. Their work centers on strengthening family relationships, developing emotional intelligence, and building financial confidence from an early age. As parents who have walked this path themselves, they share what has worked in their own home and in the lives of thousands of families they've mentored. Connect with Us Website: www.18summers.com Email: info@18summers.com Get a copy of our book "The Family Board Meeting" to learn how to create powerful weekly rituals that build trust and leadership inside your home. Subscribe to the 18 Summers Podcast and leave a rating and written review to help more families rethink education and raise kids who are ready for real life.

Want a family that thrives, not just survives? Lee Benson breaks down his game-changing formula to turn everyday moments into lasting bonds. Tune in to learn how intentional dinners, distraction-free hangouts, and simple rituals can transform your household into a powerhouse of love, growth, and community.   Key takeaways to listen for Practical strategies for setting family goals and assigning meaningful roles The surprising influence of music and emotional energy on family and business success Growing impactful communities: from personal passion to global influence How to eliminate distractions to maximize meaningful family interactions Real-life transformations through the Dinner Table Method   ResourcesJoin a community of like-minded families who are equipping their kids with real-world skills at https://community.dinnertable.com/. Start with the FREE community, then explore the Family Elite options—virtual or in-person. Ready to level up? Use code "SHIELDS" for a discount when joining the paid communities!   About Lee BensonLee Benson is a best-selling author, keynote speaker, and the Founder and CEO of Execute to Win (ETW) and Dinner Table. With over 30 years of business experience, Lee has dedicated his career to one core mission: creating value. From his humble beginnings pulling weeds for 25 cents an hour, he went on to found and lead eight companies, including Able Aerospace, which scaled from a two-person startup to a global business serving 2,000 customers in 60 countries before achieving a 9-figure exit in 2016. At ETW, Lee now helps organizations of all sizes accelerate value creation through strategic execution and leadership alignment. A respected voice in business, he's been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and Inc., and interviewed by CNBC and Bloomberg for his insights on leadership, execution, and driving measurable results.   Connect with Lee Website: Dinner Table Instagram: @dinnertablefamily LinkedIn: Lee Benson   Connect with UsTo learn more about us, visit our website at www.18summers.com or email us at info@18summers.com. To get a copy of our book "The Family Board Meeting", click here. Subscribe to 18 Summers Podcast and leave a rating and written review!   Social Media Channels Facebook Group: 18 Summers LinkedIn: Jimmy Sheils Instagram: @18summerstribe

Balancing boardrooms and ball fields is no small feat. Scott Danner, AAMS®, demonstrates how he balances a high-octane career with parenting two teenage soccer players, navigating double-booked calendars, empty-nest moments, and home-based hacks. Learn about his four-pillar L.I.F.E. Model to stay aligned amid chaos and build a lasting legacy by tuning in!   Key takeaways to listen for What unexpected parenting surprises teach about resilience A simple ritual that builds stronger family ties 4 healthy-risk opportunities that fuel teen development Reasons why a dedicated "home base" brings stability How the LIFE Model's pillars harmonize work and family   Resources The Bible in a Year | Apple Podcasts Ted Lasso Freedom Street by Scott Danner | Kindle, Paperback, and Hardcover   About Scott Danner, AAMS®Scott Danner, AAMS®, is the CEO of Freedom Street Partners, bestselling author of Freedom Street, and creator of the L.I.F.E. Model (Leadership, Impact, Faith & Energy). A champion of high performers, he coaches individuals and teams to grow with intention, build cultures of meaningful connection, and serve others at the highest level. As host of The High Performance LIFE podcast, Scott explores how to live with purpose, strengthen relationships, and show up fully in every role, helping listeners craft lives of freedom, fulfillment, and lasting impact.   Connect with Scott Website: Scott Danner Podcast: The High Performance Life | Apple Podcasts and Spotify Instagram: @scottwdanner LinkedIn: Scott Danner   Connect with UsTo learn more about us, visit our website at www.18summers.com or email us at info@18summers.com. To get a copy of our book "The Family Board Meeting", click here. Subscribe to 18 Summers Podcast and leave a rating and written review!   Social Media Channels Facebook Group: 18 Summers LinkedIn: Jimmy Sheils Instagram: @18summerstribe

What if your kid's lemonade stand became a legit business? In this episode, we crack the "Education Matrix" code, turning allowances into assets, guiding kids to buy real estate, launch ventures, and master money without brewing entitlement. Get ready-to-use tools and stories to make you their first business coach.   Key takeaways to listen for Why everyday financial topics in conversations are vital for kids How a simple visual can change kids' learning curve around money Mastering one specialized skill vs. being well-rounded The best financial lessons you can give your kids A way to give money a deeper purpose in a child's life   Resources Education Matrix   Connect with UsTo learn more about us, visit our website at www.18summers.com or email us at info@18summers.com. To get a copy of our book "The Family Board Meeting", click here. Subscribe to 18 Summers Podcast and leave a rating and written review!   Social Media Channels Facebook Group: 18 Summers LinkedIn: Jimmy Sheils Instagram: @18summerstribe

What does it really take to thrive as a blended family for over 14 years? In this episode, we share hard-earned lessons, honest stories, and the intentional practices that helped us navigate challenges and strengthen our bond. Tune in for practical advice on communication, connection, and creating unity in your blended family journey.   Key takeaways to listen for The value of effective communication in a blended family's success How to build trust and relationships with your children Challenges and approaches to integrating external family dynamics Why you need to establish family rituals to strengthen bonds Emotional process and impact of adopting his stepchildren   Connect with UsTo learn more about us, visit our website at www.18summers.com or email us at info@18summers.com. To get a copy of our book "The Family Board Meeting", click here. Subscribe to 18 Summers Podcast and leave a rating and written review!   Social Media Channels Facebook Group: 18 Summers LinkedIn: Jimmy Sheils Instagram: @18summerstribe

Is traditional education failing entrepreneurs? Russell Gray reveals why Main Street capitalism, real-world economic education, and mentorship hold the keys to thriving businesses and prosperous families. Learn how financial intelligence can transform your approach to entrepreneurship and wealth-building in this eye-opening episode.   Key takeaways to listen for The definition and importance of Main Street capitalism Parenting strategies for children's entrepreneurial success Main dangers of monopolies and the true essence of competitive capitalism Raising Capitalist Foundation and its mission to empower young capitalists How economic education shapes informed, productive citizens   Resources Raising Capitalists Project Equity Happens by Robert Helms and Russell Gray | Paperback and Mass Market Paperback Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin | Kindle, Audiobook, and Paperback   About Russell GrayRussell Gray is a seasoned entrepreneur, investor, and media personality with decades of experience empowering individuals to achieve financial independence through Main Street Capitalism. As a talk show host, author, conference speaker, and guest contributor on numerous prominent podcasts, Russ is dedicated to helping Main Street USA earn big, invest smart, and live free. He hosts the Main Street Capitalist Show and Main Street Capitalists Clubs, serves as the resident financial strategist for The Real Estate Guys™ Radio Show, and founded The Raising Capitalists Foundation to further support financial education. Through these diverse endeavors, Russ continues to advocate passionately for smart investing, economic empowerment, and personal freedom.   Connect with Russell LinkedIn: Russell Gray Email: follow@russellgray.com X: @RussWGray   Connect with UsTo learn more about us, visit our website at www.18summers.com or email us at info@18summers.com. To get a copy of our book "The Family Board Meeting", click here. Subscribe to 18 Summers Podcast and leave a rating and written review!   Social Media Channels Facebook Group: 18 Summers LinkedIn: Jimmy Sheils Instagram: @18summerstribe

Today, we delve into the complexities of maintaining a healthy relationship, particularly when facing communication challenges and emotional conflicts. Dial in as we share personal experiences and strategies for fostering understanding, respect, and emotional connection in a relationship. Key takeaways to listen for Underrated benefits of shared healing Why you need to be open about personal struggles A common misstep of trying to 'solve' problems Ways to balance emotional and practical responses How partners maintain their individual strengths and roles     Connect with UsTo learn more about us, visit our website at www.18summers.com or email us at info@18summers.com. To get a copy of our book "The Family Board Meeting", click here. Subscribe to 18 Summers Podcast and leave a rating and written review! Social Media Channels Facebook Group: 18 Summers LinkedIn: Jimmy Sheils Instagram: @18summerstribe

Tackling entitlement in parenting can be daunting. Dive into this thought-provoking episode where we explore effective strategies to foster work ethic, financial responsibility, and humility in children. Learn from community insights and practical parenting techniques to raise grounded and responsible individuals. Key takeaways to listen for The role of education in preventing an egocentric view of the world Practical ways to instill empathy and a sense of responsibility Underlying dangers of an "endless ATM" parenting approach An essential element for building a non-entitled mindset Experiences and cultural exposure vs. Materialism     Connect with Us To learn more about us, visit our website at www.18summers.com or email us at info@18summers.com. To get a copy of our book "The Family Board Meeting", click here.   Subscribe to 18 Summers Podcast and leave a rating and written review!   Social Media Channels Facebook Group: 18 Summers LinkedIn: Jimmy Sheils Instagram: @18summerstribe

Creating a strong foundation for kids is a parent's ultimate mission, and Nellie Harden is here to guide you. In this episode, the family empowerment coach and author unpacks the critical 6,570 days that shape a child's future, especially young women. Dive into her practical strategies, personal experiences, and insights from her book to help parents instill confidence, worth, and lasting values. Key takeaways to listen for The foundational importance of early years in a child's life How crucial is establishing a secure environment for children Parenting strategies that respect individual personality differences Why engage in one-on-one time with each child What to look forward to in Nellie's upcoming book Resources Brené Brown: books, biography, latest update   Join the 6570 Tribe! Sign up for Nellie Harden's email community to receive weekly foundation teachings, bonus downloads, and first access to new resources. Start today at https://www.nellieharden.com/resources! About Nellie Harden Nellie Harden is the founder of The 6570 Family Project™, where she helps families build a foundation of worth, esteem, and confidence in their young women before they leave home so they can become self-disciplined leaders equipped for their greatness. Married for over 20 years and a mother to four daughters, Nellie loves adventure, laughing, random dancing, and singing. Living in coastal North Carolina, she draws inspiration from its small-town charm, influenced by her favorite shows like Gilmore Girls and One Tree Hill. With a passion for personal and leadership development, Nellie thrives on empowering parents and young women through proactive and intentional parenting, ensuring they're equipped for life's challenges. Connect with Nellie Website: Nellie Harden Facebook: Nellie Harden, Writer Instagram: @nellie.a.harden YouTube: Nellie Harden Connect with Us To learn more about us, visit our website at www.18summers.com or email us at info@18summers.com. To get a copy of our book "The Family Board Meeting", click here. Subscribe to 18 Summers Podcast and leave a rating and written review!   Social Media Channels Facebook Group: 18 Summers LinkedIn: Jimmy Sheils Instagram: @18summerstribe

Join us as we reflect on the personal and professional journeys of 2025. Today's episode explores how embracing growth through adversity and making pivotal life and business decisions can align with your deepest values. From restructuring our podcast to making impactful family and real estate investments, we share insights on navigating life's challenges with purpose and passion. Key takeaways to listen for Impact of real estate investments on education A promising real estate strategy for 2025 Emotional and strategic family decisions The crucial role of community involvement How to navigate through legal and financial challenges     Connect with Us To learn more about us, visit our website at www.18summers.com or email us at info@18summers.com. To get a copy of our book "The Family Board Meeting", click here.   Subscribe to 18 Summers Podcast and leave a rating and written review!   Social Media Channels Facebook Group: 18 Summers LinkedIn: Jimmy Sheils Instagram: @18summerstribe

Fishing is more than a hobby for Alden Sheils—it's a way of life. In this episode, we explore how he built his career from scratch, earning his captain's license straight out of high school and learning from the best. Hear his insights on resilience, personal growth, and why choosing your own path is the ultimate key to success.   Key takeaways to listen for How Alden turned a love for fishing into a full-time career by age 21 The value of mentorship and working to learn rather than for immediate financial gain Insights into overcoming challenges like seasickness and less-than-ideal role models Ultimate benefits of choosing your own career The importance of independence, self-discipline, and building trust in your industry   Resources Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki | Paperback and Kindle The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho | Paperback and Hardcover Napoleon Hill   About Alden Sheils Alden began his fishing career at just 13 years old, working as a fishing mate in the Florida Keys. By the age of 15, he expanded his expertise to the waters of St. Augustine, exploring the backwaters independently and gaining experience on local boats. After graduating high school, Alden earned his captain's license, becoming the youngest in his class to do so. Since then, he has been running his own charters while continuing to work with seasoned local captains to refine his skills and grow as a professional. For Alden, fishing is about more than just catching fish—it's about connecting with nature, being present, and sharing meaningful experiences with others.   Connect with Alden Website: Hot Reels Inshore Charters Instagram: @hotreelsinshore  Facebook: Hot Reels Inshore Charters   Connect with Us To learn more about us, visit our website at www.18summers.com or email us at info@18summers.com. To get a copy of our book "The Family Board Meeting", click here. Subscribe to 18 Summers Podcast and leave a rating and written review!   Social Media Channels Facebook Group: 18 Summers LinkedIn: Jimmy Sheils Instagram: @18summerstribe

Dive into Leland Sheils' compelling story of non-traditional education and remarkable recovery from a life-altering car accident. Discover how his unique learning experiences and personal philosophies have shaped his views on financial literacy and overcoming adversity. Listen in to learn about the transformative power of personalized learning paths and self-motivation.     Key takeaways to listen for The importance of self-discipline in managing abundant free time How Montessori and Waldorf education enhance the learning experience Major upsides of financial literacy from a young age Why independence in Lelands' upbringing plays a crucial role An effective way to ensure genuine interest and commitment About Leland Sheils Leland Sheils is a 19-year-old entrepreneur and EMT student whose personal and professional life has been shaped by unique educational experiences and resilience in the face of adversity. As the second oldest son of Jim and Jamie, Leland's journey underscores the importance of personalized education and forging one's own path in both career and life. He is currently furthering his education to become a firefighter.   Connect with Us To learn more about us, visit our website at www.18summers.com or email us at info@18summers.com. To get a copy of our book "The Family Board Meeting", click here.   Subscribe to 18 Summers Podcast and leave a rating and written review!   Social Media Channels Facebook Group: 18 Summers LinkedIn: Jimmy Sheils Instagram: @18summerstribe

In this heartfelt episode, we discuss the profound lessons learned from recent family experiences. From navigating the challenges of parenting transitions to dealing with the loss of a family pet, we share insights on nurturing intuition, fostering bravery, and the importance of one-on-one family time. Key takeaways to listen for A powerful lesson from a daddy-daughter date Simple adventures that can teach bravery and provide life lessons The emotional process of dealing with the sudden loss of a family pet How changing parenting strategies is key to the evolving needs of children Why dedicated family time is crucial in strengthening bonds     Connect with Us To learn more about us, visit our website at www.18summers.com or email us at info@18summers.com. To get a copy of our book "The Family Board Meeting", click here.   Subscribe to 18 Summers Podcast and leave a rating and written review!   Social Media Channels Facebook Group: 18 Summers LinkedIn: Jimmy Sheils Instagram: @18summerstribe

Open your heart to the magic of holiday celebrations in this episode, where we share personal stories and practical tips for enriching family gatherings. Learn how to navigate potential stressors and embrace new traditions to create memorable and meaningful experiences. Whether you're refining festive routines or introducing fresh ideas, this discussion is packed with insights to make your celebrations truly special. Key takeaways to listen for An innovative tradition aimed at eliminating holiday scheduling conflicts Strategies for low-key, inclusive celebrations Benefits of keeping celebrations simple and accessible A simple way of fostering genuine connections during family gatherings The value of creating and maintaining holiday traditions     Connect with Us To learn more about us, visit our website at www.18summers.com or email us at info@18summers.com. To get a copy of our book "The Family Board Meeting", click here.   Subscribe to 18 Summers Podcast and leave a rating and written review! Social Media Channels Facebook Group: 18 Summers LinkedIn: Jimmy Sheils Instagram: @18summerstribe

Join Dr. Alan E. Nelson as he probes the early indicators of leadership in children, including how parents can nurture these traits to foster potential leaders from a young age. Delving into the unique characteristics of neurodivergent leaders and the pivotal role of parental guidance, he shares insights from his extensive experience in leadership development. Understand how to support and cultivate leadership qualities in young minds effectively by tuning in!     Key takeaways to listen for ●     Natural leadership traits in children ●     Practical ways of creating leadership opportunities at home ●     What does inclusive leadership mean? ●     The benefits of intentional leadership development ●     How to overcome personal and leadership challenges     Resources ●     Lead Young Training ●     My Kid Leads! by Alan E Nelson | Kindle and Paperback     About Dr. Alan E. Nelson Alan E. Nelson, EdD, is considered a global expert in young leader development. Dr. Nelson led in the social sector for 25 years. He is the author of 20 books, 21 storybooks, and over 200 articles. His works, "The O Factor," "My Kid Leads!" "LeadYoung," and the "KiddieLead" and "Unum" series reveal this pioneering accomplishment. Alan has an MA in psychology-communication and a doctorate (EdD) in leadership from the University of San Diego. Dr. Nelson is also a Lecturer of Management at the Naval Postgraduate School, where his students include NASA engineers, Top Gun pilots, Navy SEALs, and international military officers. He has also taught at top-tier schools such as USC, Pepperdine, and UCI. At midlife, Dr. Nelson concluded that the best strategy to develop effective and ethical leaders is to get to them while they're moldable, not moldy. This began a journey, interacting with 1000s of 10–18-year-olds worldwide to understand what leaders are like as youth and how to identify and develop their potential while they're pliable.     Connect with Dr. Alan ●     Website: KidLead Academy ●     LinkedIn: Alan E. Nelson, EdD     Connect with Us To learn more about us, visit our website at www.18summers.com or email us at info@18summers.com. To get a copy of our book "The Family Board Meeting", click here.   Subscribe to 18 Summers Podcast and leave a rating and written review!     Social Media Channels ●     Facebook Group: 18 Summers ●     LinkedIn: Jimmy Sheils ●     Instagram: @18summerstribe