aParently! A Conversation Between Parents with Vivian Miller In this episode, I sit down with Vivian Miller, a single mom to an eleven year old son who is very lucky to have her in his corner. Vivian shares honestly about navigating separation, domestic violence, supervised visits, and the long journey of repairing connection with her son. She also talks about living with complex PTSD and how that shows up in the day to day moments of parenting, especially during transitions between homes and those heavy Sunday evenings. We get into: The fight, flight, and freeze responses in parents Why feeling “stuck” or “lazy” is often a trauma response, not proof you are a bad parent Irritability, snapping at our kids, and the shame that follows Repair conversations and giving kids space to come back when they are ready Turning healthy aggression into connection through “sword play” with pool noodles The power of “special time” and giving kids the lead for a set window Listening to your kids talk about things you do not care about and staying in it anyway Asking questions until you find something you genuinely connect with Somatic tools Vivian uses, like yoga, breathwork, journaling, and grief work Parent listening partnerships and how being heard makes it easier to listen to our kids This podcast is not about being perfect or about my coaching. It is about hearing from real parents, walking away with something new, finding something you relate to, and remembering that you are doing better than you think you are. When in doubt, let me remind you. If you ever want fresh eyes or a steady voice in your corner, you can schedule a free coaching session at shawnhop.com. You can also visit aParently.community for articles, tools, and a growing community of parents who get it. Video Version Available on YouTube @coachshawnhop
This week on aParently! A Conversation Between Parents, I’m sitting down with Alex Reynolds, a married father of two great boys, Jonny (11) and Thomas (8). Alex has been a steady and thoughtful member of my Dads Group for the past year and a half. He is also the founder of Charming Quail Design, where he creates jewelry that celebrates what you nerd out about with a timeless elegance that will make everyone a little jealous. Explore his work here: https://www.charmingquail.com/?ref=SHAWNHOPKINS In our conversation, we talk about: • The new emotions our kids are growing into • Letting go of the idea of being “SuperDad” • Cleaning things up, both literally and emotionally • Celebrating our wins The Video of this conversation is available https://youtu.be/dJzht6mO8B0 It is an honest and encouraging conversation filled with the reminders every parent needs. If you enjoy the episode, please listen, like, review, subscribe, and share it with another parent who might need the encouragement. Then do the most important thing. Close your laptop and hug your kids. You’re doing better than you think you are.
Parent Pause: When You Don't Want to Be Around Your Kids: Come Back to the Room In this short episode, Shawn talks honestly about a feeling many parents have but rarely say out loud: sometimes you just don’t want to be around your kids. Not because you don’t love them, but because you’re overwhelmed, tired, or stretched thin. Shawn shares what helps him come back to the room instead of getting lost in his head, including simple reset moments like exaggerated dance parties, low-stakes baking, and giving kids access without giving every ounce of energy. It’s real, it’s human, and it’s a reminder that you’re doing better than you think you are. Take good care.
Parent Pause: Confidence, Not Arrogance In this quick Parent Pause, Shawn breaks down the difference between raising a confident child and an arrogant one—and why kids often confuse the two. You’ll learn how to validate effort without inflating ego, how to teach a growth mindset through simple questions, and how everyday encouragement shapes a child’s self-image. A short, practical reminder that confidence lifts others up, arrogance pushes them away, and you have the tools to help your child grow in all the right ways. You’re doing better than you think you are. Take good care.
Take It Away, Parents: Raising Kids Who Know Their Worth — The Takeaway Episode In this wrap up to the Raising Kids Who Know Their Worth series, Coach Shawn pulls together the most practical tips from every episode into one easy listen. You will get clear, real world ways to build self respect at home through everyday moments. From how you correct without shame, to helping your child say no with confidence, to body respect and consent, to naming feelings and navigating a sexualized media world, this episode is your quick start guide to keep the work going. What you will learn How to correct behavior without shaming your child Simple phrases that teach boundaries and consent at home Everyday habits that model body respect Ways to help kids notice, name, and trust their feelings How to talk with kids about media, image, and worth Why connection first is the fastest path to real change Perfect for busy parents, caregivers, and anyone raising kids who want practical steps they can use today to grow confidence, respect, and connection at home.
aParently! A Podcast for Parents Series: Raising Kids Who Know Their Worth — Episode 5 Navigating Self-Respect in a Sexualized World Our kids are surrounded by pressure — from social media, marketing, and even school hallways — to believe their worth comes from looks, attention, and popularity. In this episode, Shawn Hopkins shares how parents can help kids understand the difference between attention and respect, build resilience against sexualized messages, and hold onto their worth no matter what the world tells them. You’ll hear practical ways to model respect at home, guide your kids in setting boundaries without shame, and use simple conversations about ads and posts to connect and protect. Parents — you are doing better than you think you are! And when in doubt, stay calm and call Shawn.
Episode 4: Respecting Your Kids’ Thoughts and Feelings Season 2: Raising Kids Who Know Their Worth Every parent knows the frustration: one child shuts down and won’t share a thing, while another talks through every feeling on repeat. Both can leave you wondering how to actually help. In this episode, Shawn Hopkins, parent coach and foster/adoptive dad, explores why kids process emotions so differently — and how to respect your child’s thoughts and feelings no matter where they fall on the spectrum. You’ll learn: Why some kids hold it all in while others spill it all out. Five key factors that shape how kids share (or don’t share). How to create safe spaces for both quiet and expressive kids. What “cleanup” sounds like when you haven’t handled emotions well. Simple scripts to validate your child’s feelings without fixing them. When kids feel their inner world is respected, they begin to respect it too. That’s how they grow confidence in what they carry inside — and how they learn their worth. Join us at the aParently Roundtable — a free, virtual space for parents to connect, share ideas, and celebrate wins, happening Sundays at 6pm MST / 8pm EST. And if you’d like one-on-one support, schedule your free coaching session with Shawn at shawnhop.com.
Respect Starts at Home: Teach Your Child Body Respect & Consent (From first talks to tough moments) In our series Raising Kids Who Know Their Worth, this episode brings worth into the body. We open with Juan’s joyful “I love my body” moment, then get practical: simple house rules kids can use today (you are the boss of your body, permission is required, swimsuit areas are off limits, knock and wait, private spaces stay private). You will get five kid-ready scripts, a family reset for body-shaming and media, and clear repair steps for when we miss the mark. We talk comparison traps, social media pressure, dad modeling, and how language at home shapes a child’s inner voice. Plus a quick resource: my article “Puberty Talk for Your Boys: TnT, Testosterone and Testicles.” Free support: I offer free coaching and the aParently Roundtable, Sundays at 6 pm MT / 8 pm ET. Email coachshawn@shawnhop.com for the link.
When “No” Is Exactly What You Want to Hear from Your Kid** This is Episode 2 in the series *Raising Kids Who Know Their Worth*. Last week, we talked about *Respect Starts with Worth, Not Shame*. This week, we’re exploring why a child’s “no” can be one of the most important things you’ll ever hear — and how respecting that no, in safe situations, builds confidence, boundaries, and trust. Shawn Hopkins shares a personal story about his youngest son, a hug, and an unexpected “no” that changed his understanding of self-respect. You’ll learn practical ways to respond that honor your child’s voice without losing your role as the parent. This week’s Respect Move: Give your child space to say no and mean it. Join the conversation at the virtual *aParently Roundtable* on **Sunday, August 17th**. DM or email [coachshawn@shawnhop.com](mailto:coachshawn@shawnhop.com) for the link. Free parent coaching available at [shawnhop.com](http://shawnhop.com).
Episode 1: Respect Starts With Worth, Not Shame In this kickoff episode of One Respectful Act a Week, Shawn Hopkins shares a deeply personal story about how his own understanding of worth was shaped—and how it shows up in his parenting today. We’re diving into the truth that self-respect doesn’t come from obedience, shame, or behavior control—it comes from knowing you matter. You’ll learn one powerful way to model respect this week: explaining your decisions instead of simply enforcing them. Plus, Shawn introduces the aParently Roundtable, a free weekly parent gathering where real-life wisdom is shared, questions are asked, and support is offered. If you’ve ever wondered how to help your child build confidence, emotional safety, and inner strength—this is where it begins.
We want to raise kids who feel safe talking to us—but real listening takes more than good intentions. It takes presence, practice, and the humility to pause our advice and simply be there. In this episode, certified parent coach Shawn Hopkins shares why listening is one of the most powerful tools in parenting, how to recognize moments that matter, and what it looks like to build trust through silence. With personal stories, practical tips, and a whole lot of grace, this episode will help you become the parent your child can turn to—no matter what they're carrying.
Ever look at your child and think, “You’re amazing—how do you not see it?” In this episode, we dive into that frustrating, tender gap between how we see our kids and how they see themselves. We’ll talk about what real confidence looks like (and what it doesn’t), why some kids struggle to believe in their own value, and how you can help build lasting, grounded confidence in your child. You’ll walk away with 7 practical strategies you can start using today—from how you praise them, to the way you model self-compassion, to the tiny moments that build up their identity over time. Confidence isn’t something kids are born with—it’s something we grow, together.
There are parenting moments that knock the wind out of you—and being cursed at by your kid might top the list. Whether they say “F-you” outright or invent their own version, the sting is real. In this episode, Shawn breaks down what to do in that moment—and what to do after. You’ll learn how to respond without escalating, how to uncover the emotion beneath the outburst, and why your calm presence is more powerful than any punishment. Need more support? Visit aParently.community for helpful articles and a forum where parents can share, vent, and connect. And if you’d like personalized support, you can schedule a free coaching session at shawnhop.com. You’re doing better than you think you are. And when in doubt—stay calm, call Shawn.
We all want to raise responsible kids—ones who remember their tasks, help out without nagging, and grow into capable adults. But let’s be real: sometimes our own childhood baggage sneaks into the mix. Guilt, shame, and old expectations can make parenting feel heavier than it needs to be. In this episode, I share practical tools to help kids take ownership (no yelling required), some common missteps we all make, and how shifting from “you” to “I” statements can change everything. I’ll also open up about my own struggles in this area—and the small, powerful ways we can move forward with grace and connection. This one’s for every parent trying to teach responsibility without losing their mind. You’re not alone—and you’re doing better than you think. Mentioned in this episode: 🟡 aParently.community – Free articles and parenting tools 🟡 Schedule a free coaching session – Get clarity, confidence, and support 🟡 Related article: “Shut Up and Listen: Becoming the Parent Your Kids Can Talk To”
In this episode, I share a simple but powerful method we’ve started using in our home to help our kids navigate sibling conflict. It’s called the Think-Feel-Do Method, and it’s helping my boys name their feelings, advocate for themselves, and communicate what they need after things go sideways. It’s not magic—but it’s starting to work. And that’s what this podcast is all about: practical tools, honest stories, and little wins that help us parent with more clarity and connection. Check out the related article at aParently.community and grab a free coaching session if you’re feeling stuck at shawnhop.com You’re doing better than you think you are. And when in doubt? Stay calm and call Shawn.
Ever feel like your kid just tunes you out the moment you start giving advice? You’re not alone. In this episode of aParently!, we break down a simple, effective way to share your wisdom—without the eye rolls or shutdowns. Learn: Why timing is everything How to open the conversation with curiosity What to say to actually be heard (and not just tolerated) A real-life example where asking the right questions made all the difference This isn't about being perfect—it’s about being effective. And it starts with a pause, a question, and a little bit of intention. 💬 Want more support? Explore free articles and resources at www.aparently.community 📅 Ready to go deeper? Schedule a free coaching session with Shawn—because you’re doing better than you think you are. www.shawnhop.com 🎧 Listen now and learn how to parent with connection, not just correction.
In this deeply practical episode, Coach Shawn explores what’s really going on when a child can’t let go of hate or resentment. Drawing from his experience as a foster dad and insights from trauma-informed child development experts, he unpacks how behaviors often mask deeper needs — and how parents can respond in healing, powerful ways.
"The EdAward: A Father’s Legacy and the Power of Showing Up" When you grow up with a dad who shows up—really shows up—it changes everything. In this deeply personal episode, I share the story of how my father, Edward Miller Hopkins, shaped the way I parent my boys—especially as a foster dad stepping into their lives after deep loss and trauma. You’ll hear about legacy, acceptance, and the power of being the steady voice that says, “You’re enough, right now, just as you are.” This episode is a tribute. To the father who raised me. To the boys who now call me Dad. To any parent who’s ever wondered if they’re doing enough. If there were an award for Damn Fine Dadding… it would be called the EdAward. 🔊 Listen now and remember—you’re doing better than you think you are.
Parenting is hard. Parenting a young adult who's still figuring it out—while you’re juggling bills, burnout, and a messy kitchen—is next-level hard. In this honest episode, I share a story about my son, Miguel, and what I’ve learned (the hard way) about how the words we choose can build trust—or break it down. I talk through five common phrases I’m working to replace, why they don’t help, and what I’m saying instead. If you’ve ever yelled something you instantly regretted, or wished for a script when your kid shuts down, this one’s for you. Because sometimes it’s not about saying the perfect thing—it’s about saying the better thing.
Parenting is hard. Parenting a young adult who's still figuring it out—while you’re juggling bills, burnout, and a messy kitchen—is next-level hard. In this honest episode, I share a story about my son, Miguel, and what I’ve learned (the hard way) about how the words we choose can build trust—or break it down. I talk through five common phrases I’m working to replace, why they don’t help, and what I’m saying instead. If you’ve ever yelled something you instantly regretted, or wished for a script when your kid shuts down, this one’s for you. Because sometimes it’s not about saying the perfect thing—it’s about saying the better thing.