Casey O’Roarty is a positive discipline Trainer and Parent Coach. She hosts the popular parenting podcast, “Joyful Courage”. For the last 20 years, Casey has worked with families as an educator and coach to broaden perspectives on parenthood, behavior and relationships between parents and children. In this episode, Casey offers advice on how you can improve your relationship with your moody teenager and she reminds parents that we really have the power to influence a better relationship with our teen.   Key Takeaways  A little bit about Casey and her work.  What are some common mistakes parents make when raising teens?  Parents often make the mistake that they can explain the world to their children and help them prevent common mistakes from happening.  Teens need to experience the mistakes themselves.  Our teenagers don’t care about the laundry, and they don’t necessarily remember what it was like to be a ‘cute kid’ that used to cuddle up to mom.  As a parent, we influence the dynamic with our own teen.  What does positive discipline mean?  Be careful shutting down an idea your teen might have. It could kill their spirit or make them not want to bring their ideas to you in the future.  How can you help your teen open up? We often minimize or forget the experiences our teens are having. We’ve been through so much and this is their first time experiencing ‘life’.  What happens when your teen ‘disrespects’ you? How do you handle it?  Casey is an excellent problem solver, but that’s not always what her teen needs. So that’s why she asks first before giving advice.  Just because you’ve been a teenager once doesn’t mean you know what they’re experiencing.  You help your teen grow by standing beside them rather than trying to protect them.  How do you navigate the conversation around college?     Sponsored by Stand Up for Your Greatness!  Edgerety.com/education   Resources Besproutable.com/teens/  Casey on LinkedIn Casey on Instagram   Quotes:   “We look at our kid’s behavior and we immediately believe we’re doing something wrong, and that’s not always true.”    “Being more experienced doesn’t mean we actually know better.”    “Our relationships with our partner, with our friends, aren’t perfect either. We have our opinions and our judgements, and the relationship we have for each teen is also going to be different.”

Casey O’Roarty is a positive discipline Trainer and Parent Coach. She hosts the popular parenting podcast, “Joyful Courage”. For the last 20 years, Casey has worked with families as an educator and coach to broaden perspectives on parenthood, behavior and relationships between parents and children. In this episode, Casey offers advice on how you can improve your relationship with your moody teenager and she reminds parents that we really have the power to influence a better relationship with our teen. Key Takeaways <ul> <li>A little bit about Casey and her work. </li> <li>What are some common mistakes parents make when raising teens? </li> <li>Parents often make the mistake that they can explain the world to their children and help them prevent common mistakes from happening. </li> <li>Teens need to experience the mistakes themselves. </li> <li>Our teenagers don’t care about the laundry, and they don’t necessarily remember what it was like to be a ‘cute kid’ that used to cuddle up to mom. </li> <li>As a parent, we influence the dynamic with our own teen. </li> <li>What does positive discipline mean? </li> <li>Be careful shutting down an idea your teen might have. It could kill their spirit or make them not want to bring their ideas to you in the future. </li> <li>How can you help your teen open up?</li> <li>We often minimize or forget the experiences our teens are having. We’ve been through so much and this is their first time experiencing ‘life’. </li> <li>What happens when your teen ‘disrespects’ you? How do you handle it? </li> <li>Casey is an excellent problem solver, but that’s not always what her teen needs. So that’s why she asks first before giving advice. </li> <li>Just because you’ve been a teenager once doesn’t mean you know what they’re experiencing. </li> <li>You help your teen grow by standing beside them rather than trying to protect them. </li> <li>How do you navigate the conversation around college? </li> </ul> Sponsored by Stand Up for Your Greatness! <a href="https://www.edgerety.com/education/programs/high-school-and-middle-school-programs/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Edgerety.com/education</a> Resources <a href="https://www.besproutable.com/teens/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Besproutable.com/teens/</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/joyfulcourage/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Casey on LinkedIn</a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/joyful_courage/?hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Casey on Instagram</a> Quotes: “We look at our kid’s behavior and we immediately believe we’re doing something wrong, and that’s not always true.”  “Being more experienced doesn’t mean we actually know better.”  “Our relationships with our partner, with our friends, aren’t perfect either. We have our opinions and our judgements, and the relationship we have for each teen is also going to be different.”

40: Communication Tips to Boost a Better Relationship with Your Teen

Alena Cirello uses a person-centered approach in helping her clients get the breakthroughs they’re seeking. As a Certified Hypnotherapist and the Owner of Center for Self-Healing Arts, Alena creates unique strategies for her clients to self-actualize their future. In this episode, Alena breaks some common myths about hypnosis and explains how it can really help you and your teen tap into achieving your goals.    Key Takeaways  A little bit about Alena and her background in hypnotherapy. There are so many misconceptions about hypnotherapy. What is it exactly?  Alena can’t ‘break into your mind’ and manipulate you into robbing a bank.  Alena helps people with their mind and body connection. How can hypnosis help teens and parents?  Hypnosis is not a quick fix. Hypnosis is a supportive tool to treatment.  How does hypnosis work? Alena breaks down her process. Alena helps relieve a bit of stress going on in her teen client’s lives.  Alena believes in a collaborative approach.     Sponsored by Stand Up for Your Greatness!  Edgerety.com/education   Resources Selfhealingarts.net Alena on LinkedIn   Quotes:   “I cannot give you suggestions that are not within your belief system. I cannot force any beliefs on you.”    “Hypnosis increases the mind and body connection. It helps you feel the mind and body connection.”    “Hypnosis only works if you have an open mind. We tend to think hypnosis is like a quick fix.”

Alena Cirello uses a person-centered approach in helping her clients get the breakthroughs they’re seeking. As a Certified Hypnotherapist and the Owner of Center for Self-Healing Arts, Alena creates unique strategies for her clients to self-actualize their future. In this episode, Alena breaks some common myths about hypnosis and explains how it can really help you and your teen tap into achieving your goals.  Key Takeaways <ul> <li>A little bit about Alena and her background in hypnotherapy.</li> <li>There are so many misconceptions about hypnotherapy. What is it exactly? </li> <li>Alena can’t ‘break into your mind’ and manipulate you into robbing a bank. </li> <li>Alena helps people with their mind and body connection.</li> <li>How can hypnosis help teens and parents? </li> <li>Hypnosis is not a quick fix. Hypnosis is a supportive tool to treatment. </li> <li>How does hypnosis work? Alena breaks down her process.</li> <li>Alena helps relieve a bit of stress going on in her teen client’s lives. </li> <li>Alena believes in a collaborative approach. </li> </ul> Sponsored by Stand Up for Your Greatness! <a href="https://www.edgerety.com/education/programs/high-school-and-middle-school-programs/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Edgerety.com/education</a> Resources <a href="https://www.selfhealingarts.net/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Selfhealingarts.net</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/alena-stanley-51011a7/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Alena on LinkedIn</a> Quotes: “I cannot give you suggestions that are not within your belief system. I cannot force any beliefs on you.”  “Hypnosis increases the mind and body connection. It helps you feel the mind and body connection.”  “Hypnosis only works if you have an open mind. We tend to think hypnosis is like a quick fix.”

39: Breaking Common Hypnotherapy and Hypnosis Myths

Chetana Parmar, Advanced Yoga &amp; Meditation Teacher, has over 20 years of experience in sustainability and environmental issues and also offers guided meditation sessions to organizations. Chetana is a Meditation Instructor, Climate Activist, and Sustainability Consultant. In this week’s episode, she talks about some of the benefits of taking a pause throughout your day and how you can instill good meditation practices in your teens.    Key Takeaways  What are some of the benefits of meditation?  It’s all about taking small moments out of your day to be conscious of your wellbeing and your space. You can start by taking small breaths at the stop light!  What do the impacts of focusing on your breath have on the brain?   Wouldn’t it be great if teachers took a moment to help students breath and help them reset for the next day?  How do you get started on a meditation practice? Do you need a teacher?  A good gentle reminder is to try to take a deep breath in every time you walk through a doorway.  Tim Ferris, a well-known entrepreneur, found that 80%+ of his podcast interviewees all had a mindfulness practice.  Teens model what their parents do. If you have a good practice, they’ll follow suit.  You don’t need to dedicate massive amounts of time to this. If you have a hectic day, find 2 seconds to take a breath in and a breath out.     Sponsored by Youth Leadership Lessons: https://varsityleadership.com/   Resources:  www.chetana.co.uk  Chetana on LinkedIn  Exeterpoweryoga.com  https://insighttimer.com/yoga_chetana Instagram: @yoga_chetana   Quotes:   “Notice your breath. How does it feel when you take a deep breath in?”    “Throughout the day, just focus on your breath 2-3 times.”    “You can meditate anywhere. Just notice your breath. There are so many ways you can bring your presentness into being.”

Chetana Parmar, Advanced Yoga &amp; Meditation Teacher, has over 20 years of experience in sustainability and environmental issues and also offers guided meditation sessions to organizations. Chetana is a Meditation Instructor, Climate Activist, and Sustainability Consultant. In this week’s episode, she talks about some of the benefits of taking a pause throughout your day and how you can instill good meditation practices in your teens.  Key Takeaways <ul> <li>What are some of the benefits of meditation? </li> <li>It’s all about taking small moments out of your day to be conscious of your wellbeing and your space. You can start by taking small breaths at the stop light! </li> <li>What do the impacts of focusing on your breath have on the brain?  </li> <li>Wouldn’t it be great if teachers took a moment to help students breath and help them reset for the next day? </li> <li>How do you get started on a meditation practice? Do you need a teacher? </li> <li>A good gentle reminder is to try to take a deep breath in every time you walk through a doorway. </li> <li>Tim Ferris, a well-known entrepreneur, found that 80%+ of his podcast interviewees all had a mindfulness practice. </li> <li>Teens model what their parents do. If you have a good practice, they’ll follow suit. </li> <li>You don’t need to dedicate massive amounts of time to this. If you have a hectic day, find 2 seconds to take a breath in and a breath out. </li> </ul> Sponsored by Youth Leadership Lessons: <a href="https://varsityleadership.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://varsityleadership.com/</a> Resources: <a href="http://www.chetana.co.uk/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> www.chetana.co.uk</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/chetanaparmar/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Chetana on LinkedIn</a> <a href="https://exeterpoweryoga.com/expert-yoga-instructor/chetanaparmar" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Exeterpoweryoga.com</a> <a href="https://insighttimer.com/yoga_chetana" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> https://insighttimer.com/yoga_chetana</a> Instagram: @yoga_chetana Quotes: “Notice your breath. How does it feel when you take a deep breath in?”  “Throughout the day, just focus on your breath 2-3 times.”  “You can meditate anywhere. Just notice your breath. There are so many ways you can bring your presentness into being.”

38: Mindful Teens~The Power of Small Meditation Breaks

Joani Geltman has over 30 years of experience working with parents, children, schools, and community groups. She is also a parenting coach, college professor, and public speaker. In this episode, Joani share insights from her book, “A Survival Guide to Parenting Teens”, simple, concrete practical tips useful in those daily moments of stress as a parent when you wish you had the "right thing to do and the right thing to say”!   Key Takeaways  Have you ever asked, “What were you thinking?” to your teen?  The teenage brain is still growing, and parents often forget that their teen lacks experience.  Parents are looking at their teens from an adult brain.  Your consequences, you grounding them, is nowhere in their brain when they’re being impulsive.  Telling your child not to do something is not a strategy.  Small children respond okay with a voice of authority. In adolescence, this backfires.  All family members are going through major transitions in their life simultaneously.  What can you do if you’re having a fight with your teen?  Teens just want you to acknowledge what you’re feeling.  How can you talk to your teens about safety?  As a parent, sometimes you can preface by saying, “I wouldn't be your mom/dad if I didn’t ask this...” to help your teen understand that you care.     Sponsored by Vermont Student Assistance Corporation “Gear UP”: https://www.vsac.org/     Resources Joanigeltman.com  A Survival Guide to Parenting Teens by Joani Geltman   Quotes:   “Kids feel before they think. It’s a brain that’s a volcano waiting to erupt.”    “It’s not what you say, it’s how you say it. With teens, that’s especially important.”    “Your teens might grumble, but you’ve now planted a seed with it; their safety.”

Joani Geltman has over 30 years of experience working with parents, children, schools, and community groups. She is also a parenting coach, college professor, and public speaker. In this episode, Joani share insights from her book, “A Survival Guide to Parenting Teens”, simple, concrete practical tips useful in those daily moments of stress as a parent when you wish you had the "right thing to do and the right thing to say”! Key Takeaways <ul> <li>Have you ever asked, “What were you thinking?” to your teen? </li> <li>The teenage brain is still growing, and parents often forget that their teen lacks experience. </li> <li>Parents are looking at their teens from an adult brain. </li> <li>Your consequences, you grounding them, is nowhere in their brain when they’re being impulsive. </li> <li>Telling your child not to do something is not a strategy. </li> <li>Small children respond okay with a voice of authority. In adolescence, this backfires. </li> <li>All family members are going through major transitions in their life simultaneously. </li> <li>What can you do if you’re having a fight with your teen? </li> <li>Teens just want you to acknowledge what you’re feeling. </li> <li>How can you talk to your teens about safety? </li> <li>As a parent, sometimes you can preface by saying, “I wouldn't be your mom/dad if I didn’t ask this...” to help your teen understand that you care. </li> </ul> Sponsored by Vermont Student Assistance Corporation “Gear UP”: <a href="https://www.vsac.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.vsac.org/</a> Resources <a href="http://www.joanigeltman.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Joanigeltman.com</a> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HSUWKNU/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_tkin_p1_i0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> A Survival Guide to Parenting Teens by Joani Geltman</a> Quotes: “Kids feel before they think. It’s a brain that’s a volcano waiting to erupt.”  “It’s not what you say, it’s how you say it. With teens, that’s especially important.”  “Your teens might grumble, but you’ve now planted a seed with it; their safety.”

37: What Were You Thinking?!

Molly is a College Facilitator and helps teens develop the skills they need to be ready to leave the nest and become independent adults. Molly is focused on helping teens not just take a bunch of classes, but find their passion in life. In this episode, Molly shares what she is thinking about when she is working one-on-one with her students, the importance of taking a step to instill and teach the power of failure, and so much more.     Key Takeaways   About Molly and the work she does in education.  We are doing teens a disservice because we are not teaching them the skills they need to become successful.   It can’t just be about the results; it has to be about the process.  The military has often reported that teens today lack perseverance and leadership skills This gave Molly a clue on what she had to help teens with.     Molly helps teens work with their athlete coach and guides them on how to have the right communication with them.   It’s important to understand what makes your teen passionate about certain subjects. This will help guide them towards a sustainable and fulfilling career.   Teachers often teach the unit, teens take the test, and then move on. There are so many skills to be learned in that process.   How do you develop grit and resilience?   How do you create a great relationship with your teens? Be real, be honest, and be open to saying “I’m sorry”.     When it comes to college, it’s not about where your teen goes, it’s about what they make of it.        Sponsored by Youth Leadership Lessons: https://varsityleadership.com/   Resources  Hoosacvalley.org  “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” book by Stephen Covey  “It's the Student, Not the College” book by Kristin White   Molly on LinkedIn    Quotes:    “A lot of times we miss the boat when kids fail. We just continue to move on as opposed to using that as a way to teach kids how to fail in life.”     “It’s shifting the narrative to ask your teen what makes them feel alive? What do you really love to do?”     “Kids know when they fail. It’s not black and white [to teach resilience]. We just need to have the conversation on what they learned from the experience.” 

Molly is a College Facilitator and helps teens develop the skills they need to be ready to leave the nest and become independent adults. Molly is focused on helping teens not just take a bunch of classes, but find their passion in life. In this episode, Molly shares what she is thinking about when she is working one-on-one with her students, the importance of taking a step to instill and teach the power of failure, and so much more.   Key Takeaways  <ul> <li>About Molly and the work she does in education. </li> <li>We are doing teens a disservice because we are not teaching them the skills they need to become successful.  </li> <li>It can’t just be about the results; it has to be about the process. </li> <li>The military has often reported that teens today lack perseverance and leadership skills This gave Molly a clue on what she had to help teens with.  </li> </ul> <ul> <li>Molly helps teens work with their athlete coach and guides them on how to have the right communication with them.  </li> <li>It’s important to understand what makes your teen passionate about certain subjects. This will help guide them towards a sustainable and fulfilling career.  </li> <li>Teachers often teach the unit, teens take the test, and then move on. There are so many skills to be learned in that process.  </li> <li>How do you develop grit and resilience?  </li> <li>How do you create a great relationship with your teens? Be real, be honest, and be open to saying “I’m sorry”.  </li> </ul> <ul> <li>When it comes to college, it’s not about where your teen goes, it’s about what they make of it.  </li> <li> </li> </ul> Sponsored by Youth Leadership Lessons: <a href="https://varsityleadership.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://varsityleadership.com/</a> Resources  <a href="https://www.hoosacvalley.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hoosacvalley.org</a> “<a href="https://www.franklincovey.com/the-7-habits/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” book by Stephen Covey</a> “<a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NPE31S6/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&amp;btkr=1#:~:text=all%20more%20important.-,Kristin%20M.,enjoy%20yourself%20at%20any%20school." rel="nofollow" target="_blank">It's the Student, Not the College” book by Kristin White</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-meczywor-5863501a8/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Molly on LinkedIn</a> Quotes:  “A lot of times we miss the boat when kids fail. We just continue to move on as opposed to using that as a way to teach kids how to fail in life.”   “It’s shifting the narrative to ask your teen what makes them feel alive? What do you really love to do?”   “Kids know when they fail. It’s not black and white [to teach resilience]. We just need to have the conversation on what they learned from the experience.”

36: What Skills Should Teens Develop Prior to Going to College?

Richard Capriola has been a mental health and substance use counselor for over two decades. He has treated both teen and adults diagnosed with substance use disorders including over a decade as a counselor at Menninger Clinic in Houston Texas. Richard is the author of “The Addicted Child”, a handy parental guide for adolescent substance abuse.  In this episode Richard will discuss adolescent substance abuse, how the pandemic changed teen substance abuse and warning signs every parent, teacher and coach should know about.  Key Takeaways  How has the pandemic affected teen substance abuse?  Why did drug use go down during the pandemic? Children became isolated at home.  What drugs are teens using right now?  Richard sees vaping on the raise among teens.  Vape devices can easily be hidden, so parents and teachers might not be aware of its use.  Why are teens using substances in the first place? The biggest reason cited was to help with their anxiety.  We often spot the substance issue first, but we do not recognize the underlying emotional issue that the child is trying to cure or resolve.  How should parents respond when their teens don’t think it’s a big deal?  Why do people do drugs?  Teens run the potential of having more risk in their brains than a fully developed brain.  What are some of the warning signs that a teen is doing drugs? What’s a healthy boundary when it comes to trusting your teen vs. verifying what they’re saying?  If you find something alarming in their room, try not to attack them. Instead, ask proactive questions.  The parent also needs support. You cannot do this alone if your teen is starting to have substance abuse issues.  There is hope! Treatment plans do work!  Drug tests are not foolproof.  Richard talks about his book, “The Addicted Child”.   Sponsored by Youth Leadership Lessons: https://varsityleadership.com/ Resources Helptheaddictedchild.com  The Addicted Child: A Parent's Guide to Adolescent Substance Abuse by Richard Capriola Quotes: “It doesn’t do me any good to treat a teen for marijuana use if I can’t help that teen with their anxiety. They’re going to continue to medicate.”  “Teens are interested in the brain and how it works, so I would teach them about the brain, and then I would introduce how drugs work in the brain.”  “Build a support system for yourself too. You’re going to need help and support too, not just your teen. This is going to be a journey.”

Richard Capriola has been a mental health and substance use counselor for over two decades. He has treated both teen and adults diagnosed with substance use disorders including over a decade as a counselor at Menninger Clinic in Houston Texas. Richard is the author of “The Addicted Child”, a handy parental guide for adolescent substance abuse.  In this episode Richard will discuss adolescent substance abuse, how the pandemic changed teen substance abuse and warning signs every parent, teacher and coach should know about.  Key Takeaways <ul> <li>How has the pandemic affected teen substance abuse? </li> <li>Why did drug use go down during the pandemic? Children became isolated at home. </li> <li>What drugs are teens using right now? </li> <li>Richard sees vaping on the raise among teens. </li> <li>Vape devices can easily be hidden, so parents and teachers might not be aware of its use. </li> <li>Why are teens using substances in the first place? The biggest reason cited was to help with their anxiety. </li> <li>We often spot the substance issue first, but we do not recognize the underlying emotional issue that the child is trying to cure or resolve. </li> <li>How should parents respond when their teens don’t think it’s a big deal? </li> <li>Why do people do drugs? </li> <li>Teens run the potential of having more risk in their brains than a fully developed brain. </li> <li>What are some of the warning signs that a teen is doing drugs?</li> <li>What’s a healthy boundary when it comes to trusting your teen vs. verifying what they’re saying? </li> <li>If you find something alarming in their room, try not to attack them. Instead, ask proactive questions. </li> <li>The parent also needs support. You cannot do this alone if your teen is starting to have substance abuse issues. </li> <li>There is hope! Treatment plans do work! </li> <li>Drug tests are not foolproof. </li> <li>Richard talks about his book, “The Addicted Child”. </li> </ul> Sponsored by Youth Leadership Lessons: <a href="https://varsityleadership.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://varsityleadership.com/</a> Resources <a href="https://helptheaddictedchild.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Helptheaddictedchild.com</a> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08KJHJYBY/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_tkin_p1_i0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> The Addicted Child: A Parent's Guide to Adolescent Substance Abuse by Richard Capriola</a> Quotes: “It doesn’t do me any good to treat a teen for marijuana use if I can’t help that teen with their anxiety. They’re going to continue to medicate.”  “Teens are interested in the brain and how it works, so I would teach them about the brain, and then I would introduce how drugs work in the brain.”  “Build a support system for yourself too. You’re going to need help and support too, not just your teen. This is going to be a journey.”

35: How to Work Through Teen Substance Abuse”  with Richard Capriola, Mental Health Counselor Author of "The Addicted Child"

Melinda Shofner has been a high school counselor for the past 20 years and specializes in College and Career Counseling. She helps students make the best decision possible in their college of choice, what a good fit really means, and she also helps students prepare for transitioning from life at home to college. In this episode, Melinda talks about scholarships, the implications of student loans, and additional resources students can tap into.   Key Takeaways  There’s so much anxiety around choosing the right college for your teen.  Picking the right college is like teaching your child how to drive.  How many colleges should you be applying to?  What happens if your teen gets accepted into a college you can’t afford?  Is your teen considering taking out student loans? Sit down with them to do the numbers.  Melinda believes it’s important to look at school retention rates. How many of these young students are dropping out, and why?  What makes a good entrance essay?  There are so many changes happening during the first year of college that many students do not realize or are not prepared for it all. It’s important to have that conversation early with them.  Melinda shares how you can set the right college expectations for your teen.  How can young adults and parents get scholarships?  How do merit-based scholarships work?  What types of resources can parents and students tap into?     Resources Email Melinda: Melinda.D.Shofner@gmail.com   Sponsored by Stand Up for Your Greatness!  Edgerety.com/education   Quotes:   “Their dream school is going to be tough when it comes to admission cost. When there’s a $10,000 difference in between schools, that’s actually a $40,000 difference over the four years.”    “Your teen is going to be a young adult. They’re going to be need to own their credit and make plans for living on their own.”    “So often the message is that college is “the best time of your life”, and when it’s not, you think it’s you. We have to be really honest with our teen that it’s not perfect all the time.”

Melinda Shofner has been a high school counselor for the past 20 years and specializes in College and Career Counseling. She helps students make the best decision possible in their college of choice, what a good fit really means, and she also helps students prepare for transitioning from life at home to college. In this episode, Melinda talks about scholarships, the implications of student loans, and additional resources students can tap into. Key Takeaways <ul> <li>There’s so much anxiety around choosing the right college for your teen. </li> <li>Picking the right college is like teaching your child how to drive. </li> <li>How many colleges should you be applying to? </li> <li>What happens if your teen gets accepted into a college you can’t afford? </li> <li>Is your teen considering taking out student loans? Sit down with them to do the numbers. </li> <li>Melinda believes it’s important to look at school retention rates. How many of these young students are dropping out, and why? </li> <li>What makes a good entrance essay? </li> <li>There are so many changes happening during the first year of college that many students do not realize or are not prepared for it all. It’s important to have that conversation early with them. </li> <li>Melinda shares how you can set the right college expectations for your teen. </li> <li>How can young adults and parents get scholarships? </li> <li>How do merit-based scholarships work? </li> <li>What types of resources can parents and students tap into? </li> </ul> Resources Email Melinda: <a href="mailto:Melinda.D.Shofner@gmail.com">Melinda.D.Shofner@gmail.com</a> Sponsored by Stand Up for Your Greatness! <a href="https://www.edgerety.com/education/programs/high-school-and-middle-school-programs/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Edgerety.com/education</a> Quotes: “Their dream school is going to be tough when it comes to admission cost. When there’s a $10,000 difference in between schools, that’s actually a $40,000 difference over the four years.”  “Your teen is going to be a young adult. They’re going to be need to own their credit and make plans for living on their own.”  “So often the message is that college is “the best time of your life”, and when it’s not, you think it’s you. We have to be really honest with our teen that it’s not perfect all the time.”

34: When Does College Make Sense?

Dr. John B. Molidor, CEO &amp; President of the Brain Based Leadership Institute, works with people to better understand how their brains work. He guides his clients towards using their brains more efficiently and to help them make better decisions. In this episode, he explains why it can be so frustrating working with your teen as they begin to enter adulthood. Your brain doesn’t fully form until you’re 25 years old, so it’s important for parents to practice a bit of grace when your child makes illogical mistakes.   Key Takeaways  Why do teenagers do some of the most ridiculous things sometimes? Chances are that teenagers don’t really have a good reason for some of the actions they do. Their brain is not fully formed.  We’re asking our teenagers to grow up faster than what their brains will allow. Brains don’t fully form until about 25 years old, however our teenagers can start driving at 16.  How can we get our teens to follow simple directions? It’s not always them being defiant!  How can parents help their teens better develop a healthy brain?  The brain is the only thing in our bodies that can change and get rewired.  Let’s talk about the importance of sleep for your teen.  Parents also need to follow by example and practice good sleep hygiene. You can teach an old dog new tricks! The brain is always learning.  What routine should you have after you’ve learned something new?  Why is hydration so important? The brain is made up of water!  Dr. Molidor offers additional resources if you’d like to learn more about the brain!  The brain and the body really needs sunshine. Even if you live in a gloomy place, make an effort to get out and be in the sun.     Sponsored by Stand Up for Your Greatness!  Edgerety.com/education   Resources  Dr. Molidor on LinkedIn  Matt Walker’s books Brain Rules by John Medina  Seven And A Half Lessons About The Brain by Lisa Feldman Barrett   Quotes:   “Let them nap during the day instead of having them sleep till 1pm. Sleep consistency is important.”    “The beauty of some of this is by saying to your teenager, ‘You need to do this’, you start to examine your own biases and things that have been ingrained in you and then you can ask, ‘Is this true?’”    “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks? That’s wrong. You can teach an old dog new tricks.”

Dr. John B. Molidor, CEO &amp; President of the Brain Based Leadership Institute, works with people to better understand how their brains work. He guides his clients towards using their brains more efficiently and to help them make better decisions. In this episode, he explains why it can be so frustrating working with your teen as they begin to enter adulthood. Your brain doesn’t fully form until you’re 25 years old, so it’s important for parents to practice a bit of grace when your child makes illogical mistakes. Key Takeaways <ul> <li>Why do teenagers do some of the most ridiculous things sometimes?</li> <li>Chances are that teenagers don’t really have a good reason for some of the actions they do. Their brain is not fully formed. </li> <li>We’re asking our teenagers to grow up faster than what their brains will allow. Brains don’t fully form until about 25 years old, however our teenagers can start driving at 16. </li> <li>How can we get our teens to follow simple directions? It’s not always them being defiant! </li> <li>How can parents help their teens better develop a healthy brain? </li> <li>The brain is the only thing in our bodies that can change and get rewired. </li> <li>Let’s talk about the importance of sleep for your teen. </li> <li>Parents also need to follow by example and practice good sleep hygiene.</li> <li>You can teach an old dog new tricks! The brain is always learning. </li> <li>What routine should you have after you’ve learned something new? </li> <li>Why is hydration so important? The brain is made up of water! </li> <li>Dr. Molidor offers additional resources if you’d like to learn more about the brain! </li> <li>The brain and the body really needs sunshine. Even if you live in a gloomy place, make an effort to get out and be in the sun. </li> </ul> Sponsored by Stand Up for Your Greatness! <a href="https://www.edgerety.com/education/programs/high-school-and-middle-school-programs/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Edgerety.com/education</a> Resources <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-b-molidor-ph-d-2916218/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Dr. Molidor on LinkedIn</a> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Matthew-Walker/e/B075SGBD58/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_ebooks_1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Matt Walker’s books</a> <a href="https://brainrules.net/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Brain Rules by John Medina</a> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Seven-Half-Lessons-About-Brain-ebook/dp/B081TT1V8M" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Seven And A Half Lessons About The Brain by Lisa Feldman Barrett</a> Quotes: “Let them nap during the day instead of having them sleep till 1pm. Sleep consistency is important.”  “The beauty of some of this is by saying to your teenager, ‘You need to do this’, you start to examine your own biases and things that have been ingrained in you and then you can ask, ‘Is this true?’”  “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks? That’s wrong. You can teach an old dog new tricks.”

33: Understanding How the Teen Brain Actually Works

Ashley Keough is a Clinical Social Worker, Psychotherapist, and Speaker practicing in New Hampshire. Ashley has been in this field of work for the last 20 years and helps her clients own their story. In this week’s episode, Ashley shares some scary stats about the rise of suicides in our teens today, and what parents can do to help ease the distress of adulthood as your teen goes through these tough developmental changes.     Key Takeaways  How do you know if your teen is suicidal? What are the signs? Suicide rates are on the rise. Why is that?  Suicide is the second leading cause for adolescence.  If your teen has shifted from having a bunch of friends to having no one, that should be a concern.  If you see risk factors in your teen, how do you then go about having a conversation with them?  It’s okay to tell your teens that you are concerned.  What happens if your teen has admitted suicidal thoughts?  Whatever you do, don’t tell them to suck it up, or that they’re just doing it for attention.  What happens if one of your child’s friends is self-harming?  Ashley encourages parents to work with the school and get support and awareness around this issue. Once your child turns 18, everything changes. This is where connection with your child is really key.  How do you validate your teens feelings and not be dismissive of them?  Ashley shares examples of what parents can say to their teen to comfort them.     Sponsored by “Youth Leadership Lessons” https://varsityleadership.com/   Resources Ashley on Instagram Ashely on Facebook   Quotes:   “Therapy is about collaboration, partnership, and helping people acknowledge the growth and power inside them.”    “The rates of death by suicide in the United States have risen 57.4% over the last ten year period.”    “Teens are really smart and they’re listening for your authenticity.”

Ashley Keough is a Clinical Social Worker, Psychotherapist, and Speaker practicing in New Hampshire. Ashley has been in this field of work for the last 20 years and helps her clients own their story. In this week’s episode, Ashley shares some scary stats about the rise of suicides in our teens today, and what parents can do to help ease the distress of adulthood as your teen goes through these tough developmental changes.   Key Takeaways <ul> <li>How do you know if your teen is suicidal? What are the signs?</li> <li>Suicide rates are on the rise. Why is that? </li> <li>Suicide is the second leading cause for adolescence. </li> <li>If your teen has shifted from having a bunch of friends to having no one, that should be a concern. </li> <li>If you see risk factors in your teen, how do you then go about having a conversation with them? </li> <li>It’s okay to tell your teens that you are concerned. </li> <li>What happens if your teen has admitted suicidal thoughts? </li> <li>Whatever you do, don’t tell them to suck it up, or that they’re just doing it for attention. </li> <li>What happens if one of your child’s friends is self-harming? </li> <li>Ashley encourages parents to work with the school and get support and awareness around this issue.</li> <li>Once your child turns 18, everything changes. This is where connection with your child is really key. </li> <li>How do you validate your teens feelings and not be dismissive of them? </li> <li>Ashley shares examples of what parents can say to their teen to comfort them. </li> </ul> Sponsored by “Youth Leadership Lessons” <a href="https://varsityleadership.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://varsityleadership.com/</a> Resources <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ashleykeoughspeaks/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ashley on Instagram</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ashleykeoughspeaks" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ashely on Facebook</a> Quotes: “Therapy is about collaboration, partnership, and helping people acknowledge the growth and power inside them.”  “The rates of death by suicide in the United States have risen 57.4% over the last ten year period.”  “Teens are really smart and they’re listening for your authenticity.”

32: Teen Suicide Prevention: What Parents Can Do to Help Their Teen Through Turbulent Times

Peter Bielagus is a Financial Speaker and the Author of three books on money management. In this week’s episode, he explores whether it makes sense for your teen to attend college. He also answers the question on what parents can do if their teen doesn’t want to go to college; the options they have to pursue education; and the types of conversation you should be having with your teen around money and education.    Key Takeaways  Going to college to get good grades is an outdated concept. A student today needs to take advantage of more than just when they’re at a university.  It’s too expensive to just go to college just for the degree, and nothing more.  What do you do when your teen doesn’t want to go to college?  20 years ago, college was an experience. Today, it is an investment and students need to be very cautious on how they use that investment in time.  There are different approaches to take in regard to furthering your teen’s education. College is no longer the only ‘best option’.  Growing up, Ed never had the expectation that his parents would pay for college. Today, it seems to be the gold standard. Peter weighs in on his thoughts.  There is such a thing as student loans, but there is no such thing as retirement loans. Parents need to prioritize their retirements first.  Do not sacrifice for your teen when it comes to saving for their college fund.  Does it make sense for your teen to take a gap year?  What’s too big of a student loan? Should parents encourage their teen to go to an ivy league school?  In the finance world, numbers don’t mean anything.  Parents need to remember that debt reduces opportunities.     Sponsored by “Youth Leadership Lessons”  https://varsityleadership.com/   Resources   https://peterbspeaks.com/ Peter on LinkedIn   Quotes:   “Is college worth it? The answer really is going to be, that’s up to you and your teen.”    “Parents saving for their teen’s college education should probably be the last priority that parents have in their overall financial plan.”    “What debt does, at base, is it shrinks our opportunities.”

Peter Bielagus is a Financial Speaker and the Author of three books on money management. In this week’s episode, he explores whether it makes sense for your teen to attend college. He also answers the question on what parents can do if their teen doesn’t want to go to college; the options they have to pursue education; and the types of conversation you should be having with your teen around money and education.  Key Takeaways <ul> <li>Going to college to get good grades is an outdated concept. A student today needs to take advantage of more than just when they’re at a university. </li> <li>It’s too expensive to just go to college just for the degree, and nothing more. </li> <li>What do you do when your teen doesn’t want to go to college? </li> <li>20 years ago, college was an experience. Today, it is an investment and students need to be very cautious on how they use that investment in time. </li> <li>There are different approaches to take in regard to furthering your teen’s education. College is no longer the only ‘best option’. </li> <li>Growing up, Ed never had the expectation that his parents would pay for college. Today, it seems to be the gold standard. Peter weighs in on his thoughts. </li> <li>There is such a thing as student loans, but there is no such thing as retirement loans. Parents need to prioritize their retirements first. </li> <li>Do not sacrifice for your teen when it comes to saving for their college fund. </li> <li>Does it make sense for your teen to take a gap year? </li> <li>What’s too big of a student loan? Should parents encourage their teen to go to an ivy league school? </li> <li>In the finance world, numbers don’t mean anything. </li> <li>Parents need to remember that debt reduces opportunities. </li> </ul> Sponsored by “Youth Leadership Lessons”  <a href="https://varsityleadership.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://varsityleadership.com/</a> Resources <a href="https://peterbspeaks.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://peterbspeaks.com/</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-bielagus-08922a" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Peter on LinkedIn</a> Quotes: “Is college worth it? The answer really is going to be, that’s up to you and your teen.”  “Parents saving for their teen’s college education should probably be the last priority that parents have in their overall financial plan.”  “What debt does, at base, is it shrinks our opportunities.”

31: Should My Teen Go to College? Is It Worth It?

Hosted by Ed Gerety, Top Motivational Speaker/Author, CSP ~ An authentic conversation about the toughest issues facing teenagers today and what we can do as parents to help them navigate these challenging waters. Featuring award-winning educators, authors, and special guests that provide expert advice, real solutions, and inspiration so together we can help our teens succeed in school and in life.

Parents Navigating the Teen Years

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