Raising Boys & Girls
That Sounds Fun Network
Welcome to the Raising Boys and Girls Podcast with Sissy Goff, David Thomas, and Melissa Trevathan. In each episode of this podcast, we’ll share some of what we’re learning in the work we do with kids and families on a daily basis at Daystar Counseling Ministries. Our goal is to help you care for the kids in your life with a little more understanding, a little more practical help, and a whole lot of hope. So pull up a chair and join us on this journey of raising boys and girls. Connect with us at raisingboysandgirls.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
May 12, 2026 • 39min
Episode 374: The Cornerstone of Resilience and Capability with Dr. Ken Ginsburg
Dr. Ken Ginsburg, adolescent medicine specialist and author focused on resilience, shares his concise framework. He explains connection as the foundation of resilience and outlines the “7 Cs” like confidence and coping. He discusses praising effort, balancing protection with preparation, finding meaning through contribution, and guiding children in a tech-filled world.
May 7, 2026 • 26min
Episode 373: Capable the High School Years with David and Sissy
They explore a widening capability gap in high schoolers and why some teens retreat while others overperform. Conversation covers how screens and online norms lower relational standards and blunt resilience. They discuss real-world fixes like responsibility, healthy risk-taking, mentors, and rituals to build coping skills and steadier relationships.
May 5, 2026 • 46min
Episode 372: When to Push and When to Pull Back in the Middle School Years with Dr. Lisa Damour
Dr. Lisa Damour, clinical psychologist and bestselling author who studies adolescent development, walks through the tricky middle school years. She discusses how resilience grows from tolerating discomfort. She explains why avoidance undermines capability. She offers ways to encourage action without rescuing and how to stay connected while giving space.
Apr 30, 2026 • 22min
Episode 371: Capable the Middle School Years with David and Sissy
Middle school as a hidden training ground for independence and resilience. The loss of in-person time to screens and how that stalls social skills. Friendship is a practice — initiating, repairing, tolerating awkwardness. Ways to shift kids outward through chores, service, mentors, and unplugged outdoor practice. Practical steps to give preteens responsibility, healthy voices, and manageable discomfort.
Apr 28, 2026 • 50min
Episode 370: From Trauma to Regulation to Resilience with Neurobiologist Dr. Bruce Perry
Dr. Bruce Perry, neurobiologist and child psychiatrist who studies trauma and the developing brain. He clarifies stress versus trauma and invites a shift from blaming to understanding. He champions moderate, predictable stress, the importance of risk and rhythm, and how a regulated caregiver can calm a dysregulated child.
10 snips
Apr 23, 2026 • 27min
Episode 369: Capable the Elementary Years with David and Sissy
Conversation about why ages 6–11 are a pivotal window for kids to build confidence. They explore how manageable struggle, not rescue, fosters resilience. Rising anxiety, anger, and sensory overload are discussed as opportunities for growth. Practical ideas include boundaries, everyday responsibilities, and simple tools to help kids learn they can do hard things.
Apr 21, 2026 • 44min
Episode 368: Building Independence and Resilience in Toddlers with Zee Pendleton and Angela Rice
Angela Rice, lifelong Nashvillian and veteran early-childhood teacher, and Zee Pendleton, longtime preschool director and educator, share practical, grounded perspectives. They explore toddlers’ rising anxiety, screen-driven declines in play and connection, and ways to build independence through everyday tasks. Short, clear strategies highlight presence, limits, and chances to try and fail.
Apr 16, 2026 • 21min
Episode 367: Capable the Toddler Years with David and Sissy
They explore toddlers’ drive for autonomy and why “I do it myself” signals healthy development. They contrast calm separations with anxious attachment and offer short, confident drop-off language. Boundaries plus empathy are highlighted as ways to create security. Practical ideas for age-appropriate responsibilities and tools for self-regulation are discussed.
12 snips
Apr 14, 2026 • 38min
Episode 366: Helping Boys Become Capable Men with Sherman Bucher
Sherman Bucher, director of child and adolescent counseling who leads boys’ programs and parent groups, discusses boys’ rising anxiety and openness to help. He talks about harmful online messages, redefining strength as emotional awareness, the importance of real friendships beyond screens, healthy risk-taking, consistent boundaries at home, and the role of fathers and male mentors.
23 snips
Apr 9, 2026 • 26min
Episode 365: Boys' Challenges to Capability with David and Sissy
They dig into how everyday risks and small struggles build real capability in boys. They explore why modern convenience and rescuing limit emotional regulation and perseverance. Practical examples and a one-week risk audit offer ways to create growth moments. They outline rehearsable regulation tools and warn against numbing strategies that block development.
