Joyful Courage for Parenting Teens

Middle school is a major transition, and in this replay episode I talk about how we can prepare—not panic—as our tweens start to explore identity, tech, friendships, risk-taking, and independence. I offer insight into what’s happening developmentally, what we need to normalize (from vaping and friend drama to sex and substance conversations), and how to set healthy boundaries while staying connected. You'll hear practical ways to show up with presence, foster emotional safety, and handle tough moments with intention. This is your invitation to be proactive, emotionally available, and ready to walk the bridge to adolescence with compassion and courage. For deeper show notes and more info, go to https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-484-the-real-work-of-parenting-during-the-middle-school-years/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of the Joyful Courage Podcast, I dive deep into one of the biggest struggles parents of teens face—wanting to fix our kids’ problems instead of truly seeing and hearing them. I share real-life examples, practical Positive Discipline tools, and introduce my new acronym, VIBE: Validate, Inquire, Breathe, Empathize. By learning to validate our teens’ emotions without rushing to fix, we build trust, create emotional safety, and open the door to authentic problem-solving. If your teen is shutting you out, giving one-word answers, or feeling discouraged, this episode will help you reconnect and influence from a place of love. Find more info and show notes at: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-597-using-validation-to-reconnect-wtih-your-teen/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever feel like your teen doesn’t quite fit into the “introvert” or “extrovert” box? In this week’s episode, I talk with psychiatrist and author Dr. Rami Kaminski, who introduces the idea of the “otrovert”—someone who thrives as a non-joiner, deeply connected to a few people but resistant to the pull of the group. We explore how embracing this way of being can free parents from pushing kids to “fit in” and instead celebrate who they truly are. If your teen values authenticity over popularity—or you wish you understood them better—this conversation will shift your perspective. Find more info and show notes at: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-596-being-an-otrovert-with-dr-rami-kaminski/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This solo episode comes straight from my heart. Inspired by my morning routine, I pulled cards and reflected deeply on what it means to take full responsibility for generating the love, connection, and joy I want in my life—especially as a parent of teens. I talk about how we respond to the inevitable unfolding of life, how we often contribute to relationship dynamics without realizing it, and the courage it takes to choose differently. This is a deep dive into personal growth, mindset shifts, and conscious parenting—imperfectly, but with intention. Find more info and show notes at: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-382-solo-show-meeting-creating-life-unfolds Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Jaimie Kelton of the If These Ovaries Could Talk podcast to explore the real experiences of queer parenting, non-bio connection, and the power of chosen family. We dive into the fears, joys, and boundary-pushing truths that come with raising kids in queer households—and why these stories matter to all of us. Whether you're part of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally raising kids in today’s world, this conversation is packed with wisdom, laughter, and reminders that parenting is a radical act of love. Find more info and show notes at https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-594-queer-parenthood-and-raising-resilient-teens-with-jaimie-kelton/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, I’m inviting you to pull up a chair and exhale with me. We’re talking about the messy beauty of midlife, the realities of parenting teens, and what it means to trade the illusion of control for the groundedness of a compass. Whether you’re just entering the teen years or deep in the thick of it, I want you to feel seen, encouraged, and reminded that you’re not alone. I’m also sharing a new offering I’m working on — and I’d love your wisdom as I shape it for this community. for more show notes and information, go to https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-593-parenting-growth-and-the-power-to-choose/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, I sit down with Tammy J. Cohen — author of A Text Message Away — to talk about the power of connection through simple, consistent gestures. Tammy shares her personal journey of learning to lead with heart, empathy, and curiosity — even (especially) when the people you love put up walls. We talk about how texting can become a surprisingly meaningful bridge to connection with our kids (or anyone), why we often wear masks instead of showing our true selves, and how to move from “What’s wrong with you?” to “What happened to you?” Tammy also opens up about her own struggles with judgment and control and how she learned to trust her kids as they grew into adults. This conversation is full of reminders that our children — no matter how old — long to feel loved, seen, and safe with us. And that connection doesn’t have to be perfect to matter — it just has to be steady. Get show notes and more information at https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-592-daily-habits-that-build-connection-with-tammy-j-cohen/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of the Joyful Courage Podcast, I dive deep into how parents of teens can let go of control, validate their kids’ experiences, and rebuild trust—even when walls have gone up. You’ll hear tools and mindset shifts to dismantle your own armor, hand back energetic responsibility, and meet your teen with curiosity, acceptance, and love. Parenting tweens and teens can feel messy and humbling, but it’s also an incredible opportunity to grow alongside them. Listen in for practical Positive Discipline strategies to strengthen connection while respecting your teen’s independence. For more info and show nots, go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-591-dismantle-walls-and-deepen-your-bond-with-your-teen/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, I chat with breathwork expert Kurtis Lee Thomas about how simple breathing techniques can help parents of teens manage stress, frustration, and overwhelm. Breathwork isn’t just for crisis moments—it’s a powerful daily tool to calm your nervous system, build resilience, and create more ease in family life. If you want practical strategies to stay present, connected, and lead with joyful courage, this episode is your breath of fresh air. For more info and show notes, go to: https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-590-breath-as-a-superpower-with-kurtis-lee-thomas/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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