Joyful Courage for Parenting Teens

In this episode of the Joyful Courage Podcast, I revisit a timeless challenge: how to motivate teens to help out at home and follow through on commitments — without constant nagging or power struggles. I share mindset shifts and practical strategies for building cooperation, breaking through resistance, and nurturing real connection. You’ll hear why letting teens feel natural consequences matters and how to hold boundaries with love. Listen in for encouragement and tools to parent teens with respect and confidence! For more show notes and info go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-297-solo-show-thoughts-on-motivating-adolescents/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this powerful conversation with Dr. Traci Baxley, author of Social Justice Parenting, we explore how to raise children who embrace equity, compassion, and activism. We unpack hard topics like the N-word, critical race theory (CRT), systemic racism, and the importance of taking action — even when it’s uncomfortable. Dr. Baxley offers practical tools for fostering inclusion at home and in our communities. Tune in to learn how parenting and social justice intersect to create meaningful change. For more information and show notes, go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-331-raising-allies-with-traci-baxley/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you're parenting a tween or teen and feeling like you’re constantly walking on eggshells—this episode is for you. I talk about parenting teens without losing yourself in the process. I share why your peace of mind doesn't have to wait for your kid to change, and how you can tap into presence, groundedness, and calm—even in the messiest moments. I offer three mindset shifts and practical tools to regulate, hold boundaries with love, and lead with connection. This is about parenting from the inside out. Listen now and reclaim your peace, no matter what’s going on around you. For more info and show notes, go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-587-parenting-teens-without-losing-yourself/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

My guest today is Ann Garcia, and this episode is full of resources & advice you can use right now. Ann is an expert on paying for college and has two kids in college right now, so she really gets it. Ann starts with an explanation of why some college educations are so expensive, what other options are available, and why you need to define your budget for college. Ann shares tips for staying focused on goals & how to talk to your teen about college. Ann tells me when it could be right to take student loans and gives lots of info on how to get scholarships. We also touch on financial aid, FAFSA, CSS Profile, & institutional merit aid. Find more show notes and info at: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-392-college-financial-planning-with-ann-garcia/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this solo episode of the Joyful Courage Podcast, I am revisiting the wisdom of episode 428, where I unpack the power of perception in parenting teens—taking a look at how our kids interpret our actions, form beliefs, and make decisions based on what they think we value. I reflect on my own parenting journey and offer insight into the connection between behavior, motivation, and belonging. If you’ve ever felt stuck around your teen’s performance or attitude, this episode is a must-listen for positive discipline tools, connection, and real talk. I know you'll love it - listen in! Find more info and show notes at: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-428-considering-the-power-of-perception/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this powerful episode of the Joyful Courage Podcast, I talk with Dr. Robyn Koslowitz about post-traumatic parenting, emotional reactivity, entitlement, and how to raise resilient teens with compassion. We unpack how unresolved trauma can hijack our parenting and how to rewire our responses with awareness and grace. Dr. Robyn shares insights on teaching kids about needs vs. wants, building emotional regulation, and the importance of letting teens make mistakes. If you’re parenting teens and feel stuck in old patterns, this conversation offers tools, validation, and real hope. Tune in to feel seen, supported, and empowered. More info and detailed show notes at: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-584-post-traumatic-parenting-with-dr-robyn-koslowitz/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, I wrap up the Positive Discipline for Teenagers book series with a deep dive into our unresolved teen issues—and how they sneak into our parenting. I reflect on my own experiences and share powerful tools to support healing, self-awareness, and courageous parenting. If you’ve ever wondered why certain challenges with your teen hit so hard, this conversation will help. I’m inviting you to shift from reactive to reflective, from fearful to courageous. Tune in to gain clarity, connection, and practical steps forward in your parenting journey. For more info and resources, go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-583-positive-discipline-for-teens-part-7-are-your-issues-getting-in-your-way/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of the Joyful Courage Podcast, I talk with psychologist and author Natalia Aiza about the emotional and practical challenges of parenting highly dependent young adults. We dive into the ways our own anxiety and desire to protect our kids can lead to unhelpful over-accommodation—and how to lovingly step back without stepping away. Natalia shares insights from her upcoming book and the SPACE model, reminding us that while we can’t force our kids into therapy or independence, we can shift the environment. We explore real-life examples, including turning off the phone at night, reducing codependence, and letting our kids experience natural consequences. If you’ve ever wondered how to support your struggling teen or young adult without enabling them, this episode is full of validation, practical tools, and compassion. Tune in to feel seen and empowered—you are not alone, and your efforts matter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of the Joyful Courage Podcast, I break down the MAP process—Mirror, Align, Practice—a powerful tool for creating lasting transformation in your parenting. I share real-life stories (including a messy family meeting!) and offer encouragement for showing up with intention, even when it’s hard. You’ll learn why self-reflection matters, how to align with your values, and what brave, everyday practice looks like. If you’re ready to shift the dynamic in your family and parent with more connection and purpose, this episode is for you. Tune in for practical parenting support rooted in personal growth and real-life experiences. Find more information and show notes at: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/ eps-581-map-a-tool-to-transform-your-parenting/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of the Joyful Courage Podcast, I’m joined by the brilliant Kate Moryoussef, an ADHD women’s wellbeing coach, author, and mom. Kate shares her powerful story of being diagnosed with ADHD at 40 — along with one of her children — and we dig into what it really looks like to navigate family life when neurodiversity is part of the mix. Whether or not you or your child have an ADHD diagnosis, this conversation is rich with insight around emotional regulation, self-compassion, parenting with presence, and taking care of your own mental wellbeing. We talk about the unique challenges women face with ADHD, how emotional sensitivity shows up in everyday life, and why calm and self-awareness are essential for our relationships. Kate also introduces us to EFT (tapping) — a powerful tool for shifting energy and supporting self-regulation. If you're raising kids (neurodiverse or not), and you're looking for real tools and support for your own emotional health, you’re going to get so much from this episode. 🎧 Tune in and take what you need — this one’s for you. For more info and show notes: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-580-mom-has-adhd-too-parenting-and-self-compassion-with-kate-moryoussef/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week we dive into some of the scarier challenges parents face while raising tweens and teens. As usual, I emphasize the importance of building relationships, life skills, and personal growth. This episode discusses heavy topics like lack of friends, bullying, drug use, sex, suicide, and more, based on chapter 13 of the 'Positive Discipline for Teenagers' book by Jane Nelson and Lynn Lott. I advocate for open communication, harm reduction, curiosity, and providing unconditional love and support to help adolescents navigate these challenges. Can't wait to hear what you think - Find more show notes and info about our sponsors at https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-579-positive-discipline-for-teens-part-6-handling-scary-behaviors/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of the Joyful Courage Podcast, I have a heartfelt and eye-opening conversation with Christina Olivetti — a writer, educator, and passionate advocate for gender inclusion. Christina shares her powerful journey of raising her transgender son, Jake, and the deeply personal story behind her memoir, About Bliss. We talk about so much — from the importance of gender-affirming care and navigating medical decisions, to the emotional highs and lows that come with parenting a transgender child. Christina’s honesty, wisdom, and compassion shine through, and she offers incredible insights for parents who are walking a similar path or simply want to understand and support the trans community better. She also speaks about her involvement with Free Mom Hugs, a national organization offering love and support to LGBTQ+ families — a truly inspiring part of the conversation. I encourage all parents to tune in. Whether you’re raising a trans child or want to show up more fully as an ally, this episode is an important listen. Let’s keep growing, learning, and showing up with love. Find more show notes and info about our sponsors ata: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-578-love-gender-and-advocacy-with-cristina-olivetti/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of the Joyful Courage Podcast, I invite you to reflect with me on how our beliefs about our children can shape their behavior and our relationship with them. I revisit some key themes from past episodes and dive deeper into why it’s so important to look inward. When we take the time to examine our own belief systems, we open the door to creating a more positive and empowering environment for our teens and tweens. I talk about the value of self-awareness, curiosity, and our own ongoing growth as parents. You’ll hear practical ways to approach everyday parenting challenges—ways that come from seeing our kids as capable and resilient human beings. My hope is that this episode encourages you to explore your beliefs, shift your perspective, and find new ways to connect more meaningfully with your children. For more info and show notes, go to https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-480-power-of-examining-beliefs-we-hold-about-our-teens-and-tweens/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I want to take a moment to share some personal updates with you. As my husband undergoes cancer treatment, I’ve made the decision to replay some powerful past episodes of the podcast that I believe are just as relevant and impactful today. One of those episodes is a conversation I had with Oren Jay Sofer, the author of Say What You Mean: A Mindful Approach to Nonviolent Communication. In our talk, Oren beautifully weaves together his experiences with meditation and communication to show how we can bridge the gap between inner mindfulness and how we connect with others. We dive into the heart of mindful parenting—focusing on presence, curiosity, and intention—and discuss simple, practical ways to bring these qualities into our everyday lives. I encourage you to really listen in. You’ll hear strategies for embracing those all-important mindful pauses, nurturing a genuine sense of curiosity, and shifting from blame to identifying needs in your relationships. These tools aren’t just theory—they can truly transform the way we show up for our kids, our partners, and ourselves. Let’s lean into these conversations together, with compassion and care. Find more info and show notes at: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-174-learning-to-be-a-more-mindful-communicator-with-oren-jay-sofer/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are revisiting Episode 388 - and it's a good one! I’m breaking down 4 powerful steps to build trust and connection—even when your teen shuts you out. This isn’t a behavior problem—it’s a relationship one. You’ll reflect on your own reactions, learn how to truly listen, and show up in ways your teen can trust. Let’s get real, get honest, and rebuild connection—together. For show notes and more go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/solo-4-steps-being-support-teen-needs/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode is a dive deep into the concept of mistaken goals in parenting teens, exploring how our kids' challenging behaviors are often rooted in unmet needs like attention, power, revenge, assumed inadequacy, and excitement-seeking. I break down each mistaken goal, sharing how parents can recognize the hidden messages behind their teen’s actions and respond with empathy, connection, and positive discipline. If you’re struggling with power struggles, risky behavior, or feeling disconnected, this series is for you. Listen now to gain practical strategies and fresh insights that will transform your relationship with your teen. For more information and show notes, go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-574-positive-discipline-for-teens-part-5-why-do-they-act-like-that/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Back again with a follow up replay - this episode was recorded the same week as my show with Dr. Bryson (the one revisited in eps 572). I loved the convo so much I was inspired to go deeper into trusting our teen’s development. This show goes into what is happening in the teen brain and how to work WITH our kids to promote relationship and autonomy over time. Enjoy! Find more info and show notes at: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-512-trusting-our-teens-development/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ready to launch your teen with confidence? Revisit this episode featuring Dr. Tina Bryson! As an acclaimed parenting expert, Dr. Bryson dives deep into how to support your teen without falling into fear-based parenting. Discover why worrying less can actually help your teen thrive, how to strike the perfect balance between support and independence, and why allowing mistakes is crucial for your teen's growth. Dr. Bryson even shares her own heartfelt experiences of sending two of her teens off to college—and how different those journeys were. Whether your teen is college-bound or just starting high school, this episode is packed with actionable advice you won’t want to miss. Tune in now! For more show notes and information go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-511-avoiding-fear-based-parenting-with-dr-tina-bryson/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this week's episode, I dive into the mistaken goals of power and revenge, exploring how kids' behaviors often reflect deeper beliefs about belonging, safety, and significance. I share raw personal stories about my own children, highlighting how misinterpreting their actions led to disconnection—and how shifting from reactivity to curiosity transformed our relationships. This conversation challenges parents to look beneath the surface, embrace emotional discomfort, and engage in responsive, relationship-changing parenting. Listen to grow, reflect, and reconnect. Get more info and full show notes at: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-571-power-revenge-and-parenting-clarity/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of the Joyful Courage Podcast, I dive into chapters 10 and 11 of Positive Discipline for Teenagers by Jane Nelsen and Lynn Lott. I explore what the chapters share about building strong relationships with teens, prioritizing life skills over punishment, and creating supportive structures. I also share practical strategies for managing teen tech use while balancing connection and boundaries. Tune in for empowering parenting tips that support positive discipline and intentional adolescent growth. For more info and show notes, go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-570-positive-discipline-for-teens-part-4-life-skills-and-navigating-screens/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices