Parenting Through The Hard

In this episode, I reflect on starting a new year feeling tired, stuck, and unsure how to move forward as a parent. I share how my practice of choosing a word for the year helped me reframe what it means to begin again—without pressure, perfection, or forcing progress.

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a replacement for professional counseling or medical guidance.

If you’d like to partner with us and support the podcast, consider sponsoring an upcoming episode by making a do...

As this year comes to a close, I sat down to record what I thought would be a simple 7-minute Hope in the Hard reflection… but once I began, I realized this message needed more space. So today’s episode is a little longer — a gentle, unhurried conversation about looking back, letting go, and noticing the new thing God may already be growing beneath the surface.

If you’d like to partner with us and support the podcast, consider sponsoring an upcoming episode by making a donation of any size to Parenting Through the Hard [by clicking here].

Your support keeps this podcast running — and goes directly toward production costs and co...

In this special Christmas Hope in the Hard reflection, I’m sharing some tender thoughts about finding peace in the quieter moments of the season — the ones that don’t always feel “merry and bright.”

If you’d like to partner with us and support the podcast, consider sponsoring an upcoming episode by making a donation of any size to Parenting Through the Hard [by clicking here].

Your support keeps this podcast running — and goes directly toward production costs and continuing this mission.

For more resources and hope-filled tools, visit parentingthroughthehard.com

Disclaimer...

The holidays have always felt magical. But over time, and through hard seasons, they often felt more like survival. In this episode, I share honestly about what it’s looked like to navigate fractured family dynamics, quiet grief, and the slow work of healing. Even when it’s messy, love still matters. This episode explores how we as parents can hold onto hope and faith during the holidays, even in seasons marked by heartache, separation, or uncertainty.

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a repl...

What do you do when the life you dreamed for your child collides with the choices they’ve made? When the future you pictured seems to slip out of reach, it can leave you aching with a grief no one prepares parents for.

In this episode, I share the raw story of discovering my teen’s hidden struggles, the shock and heartbreak that followed, and the truth I’ve learned walking beside countless moms facing their own detours. Together, we’ll talk about why grief is not failure but love in its rawest form, why we so often re...

In this Hope in the Hard reflection, I talk about the seasons when love itself feels heavy, when caring deeply for our teens or grown children begins to feel more like carrying than connecting. As I reflect on my own journey, I’ve noticed how easy it is to hold on to things that were never ours to carry, and how setting that weight down can make room for grace, trust, and gentler love. This episode is an invitation to breathe, to surrender the heaviness, and to remember that love was never meant to crush us — it was meant to c...

Do you ever feel that automatic pull to fix things for your teen or adult child, especially when their struggle triggers something tender or fearful in you? I feel that tug in my parenting all the time. 

In this episode, I’m sharing some of what I’m learning about the hidden cost of rescuing, why the urge feels so strong, and a small practice that’s helping me (little by little) stay close without taking over.

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a replacement for professional counseling or medical guidance.

If you’d like to partner...

Join me for seven peaceful minutes to slow down, breathe, and rediscover hope, grace, and meaning in the middle of real life.

If you’ve ever ended the day completely drained and wondered why rest still feels out of reach, this one’s for you. In this short Hope in the Hard segment, I’m sharing some honest thoughts about what real rest looks like, not the kind that comes from scrolling or zoning out, but the kind that fills us back up from the inside out. Consider this your gentle challenge to find a few moments of tru...

You’re doing your best — but still not sure if it’s enough?

Friend, same! In this episode, we’ll talk about how to quiet the noise, reconnect with your inner wisdom, and parent from a place of love instead of fear.

You’ll walk away with a simple practice to help you check in with yourself and respond with clarity — even when emotions run high.

🛠️ Includes: The “3-Minute Heart Check” tool + journal prompts

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a replacement...

In this Hope in the Hard reflection, I talk about finding beauty in the ordinary moments of everyday life — especially for parents walking through hard seasons with their teens or grown children. It’s a gentle reminder that healing often happens in quiet, simple ways, not dramatic ones. Join me for seven peaceful minutes to slow down, breathe, and rediscover hope, grace, and meaning in the middle of real life.

When our kids make choices that scare or disappoint us, it’s tempting to tighten our grip. But control and love can’t coexist. In this episode, I explore the raw struggle of letting go..why it feels so painful, how fear keeps us stuck, and what it looks like to release control without abandoning our children or losing ourselves.

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a replacement for professional counseling or medical guidance.

If you’d like to partner with us and su...

This week, I’m introducing something new—short Hope in the Hard reflections in between our regular podcast episodes. These are simple, honest moments to pause and reconnect. In this first one, I talk about prayer when you have no words, and how silence can still be sacred.

In the middle of parenting teens and young adults, it's so easy to lose myself in the storm—caught between my children’s needs, my expectations, and the constant fear of what might go wrong. In this episode, I invite you into a quiet, honest conversation about what happens when we lose our inner voice—and how we can return to it through love, faith, and connection.

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a replacement for professional counseling or medical guidance.

If you’d...

After a year and a half away from the mic, I’m stepping back into this space with a story I never expected to tell. Two days after releasing my last episode, my mom—who loved me with steady, unconditional love..passed away.

Grief and parenting through hard seasons have reshaped me in ways I couldn’t have imagined. They’ve taught me that control was never the answer, faith had to become part of the story, and showing up authentically means naming the mess as much as the beauty.

This relaunch episode is dedicated to my mo...

As I navigate through a deeply personal and challenging time, today's episode signifies a monumental shift in my life, one that I know will leave a lasting impact. In the midst of this, I've made the decision to take a break from recording to focus on being present with my family. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Have you ever found yourself trying to do all the right things with your child, pouring all your love and so, so much energy into parenting, only to start to question if you are even on the right path? Sometimes, even our best intentions can steer us off course.

In this episode, we cover:

Click here...

Are you exhausted, barely keeping your head above water, wondering if the next wave of fear will be the wave that finally takes you out? Well, friend, reframing is one powerful way you can start to protect your peace. 

In this episode, we cover:

In today's episode, we are going to take a look at some common fear triggers. How many of them resonate with you? We'll discuss the vicious cycle of fear, and what I've learned about the role of mirror neurons in my relationship with my teen. I'll also share some ways that I've been trying to break the cycle of fear in my own life & improve communication with my teens and adult children.
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About Through The Hard:
"Through The Hard," originally titled Unyielding, is proudly presented by Pathways to Hope Network—a parent-led non-profit organization co...

As we step into a new year, there's NO BETTER TIME to kickstart healthy habits and cultivate self-compassion. 

In this special rerun of Episode 32, we revisit an insightful discussion with Megan Dahlman, a Certified Trainer, Nutrition Coach, and mom of boys. Megan shares invaluable insights for moms navigating challenging seasons of chaos and uncertainty, emphasizing the crucial first steps on their self-compassion journey.

Key Takeaways:

Welcome to the final episode of 2023, where we take a reflective journey through some of my favorite clips of Through the Hard and Unyielding.

Join us as we revisit the memorable moments and lessons learned.....
Segment 1: Episode 10 Moving Through the Unknown with Purpose
Segment 2: Episode 27 Embracing Imperfection: Why You Need to Let Go of the Need to Fix Your Teen
Segment 3: Episode 12 What No One Tells You About Youth Probation
Segment 4: Episode 37 React Less, Respond More: Parenting Tips for Mindful Communication
Segment 5: Episode 35 The Role of Self-Reflection in the Healing Process
...

In this episode of Through the Hard, we dive into the topic of control and over-functioning in parenting. It's something many of us struggle with, and it can have negative effects on our teens. I often find myself in that same place, trying to control every aspect of my teen's life, thinking it is the best way to protect them. But I'm learning that it's so important to find a balance. Our teens need some freedom to make their own choices and learn from their mistakes.

That's where the concept of balanced oversight comes...

In this episode of Through the Hard, we dive into the topic of control and over-functioning in parenting. It's something many of us struggle with, and it can have negative effects on our teens. I often find myself in that same place, trying to control every aspect of my teen's life, thinking it is the best way to protect them. But I'm learning that it's so important to find a balance. Our teens need some freedom to make their own choices and learn from their mistakes.

That's where the concept of balanced oversight comes...

Today's Parenting Teens Through the Hard episode is a heartfelt throwback from last year.

We're diving into the challenges we all face during the holiday season while caring for a teen in crisis. Your experiences and emotions are valid, and we're here to explore them with compassion and understanding. Join us as we discuss the many conflicting emotions we experience and offer a few suggestions on how to approach setting boundaries, avoiding problematic gifts, planning how to handle difficult conversations, and creating new traditions to bring joy. Despite the hardships we are experiencing, this holiday season is...

Friend, today, we're going to delve into a topic that might tug at the heartstrings a bit – the profound importance of vulnerability in parenting, particularly during these challenging teenage years.

Together, we'll dive a little deeper into this concept I like to call "heart talk." A gentle, intimate dialogue rooted in trust and authenticity, a space where we can really connect with our teens. Because, you see, parenting during these years can be quite a tender journey.

You and I are going to explore those areas where our teens find it tough to open up to...

In episode 48, we're diving into a topic that's pretty important on this parenting journey through the hard: talking openly and genuinely with our teenagers.

You know, as parents, it's crucial to get a handle on our own emotions and fears before we embark on those deep heart-to-heart chats. Think of it like learning a new dance – it takes time, understanding, and a solid connection.

In this episode, I've got some down-to-earth strategies to share to help you get closer to having deeper conversations with your teens. We're also gonna ch...

In Episode 47, I give you an inside glimpse of the content for Day 1 of our recent workshop on The Four Principles for Fighting Fear, specifically in the context of parenting teenagers. As a parent, I understand how fear can sometimes hinder our ability to parent our teens effectively. That's why I want to share a personal "cheat code" for managing fear and becoming a more confident parent.

You see, parental fear is often rooted in love. We want the best for our teenagers, and we worry about their well-being. But sometimes, this fear can hold us back...

In this episode of our podcast "Parenting Teens Through the Hard," we are talking about the importance of understanding the changing dynamics of communication with our teens and how crucial it is for us to adapt.

We all know that our teens are heavily influenced by their peers, technology, and social media. However, it's essential for us to remember that our voices still hold immense value in their lives. We need to find ways to connect and communicate effectively with them.

A key aspect we focus on is modeling healthy communication and empathy. Empathy acts...

"What will you pursue in the middle of this mess that might somehow justify all your suffering?"

In this episode, we are opening our eyes to one of the biggest struggles we experience as parents of teenagers or young adults in crisis. Whether we are dealing with teen behavior issues, addiction, failing grades in high school, manipulation, or isolation, there is a heaviness that creeps in around us with no intention of leaving anytime soon. 

Join us as we discuss how we go from hurt parents to healed parents a...

Hey Sis! Ever think about parenting teens like you're tending a garden? Well, that's what we're getting into in this episode – 'cause, let's face it, our kids are a bit like flowers. They bloom when they're ready, in their own sweet time.

We're just here to play the gardener, you know? Nurturing, observing, and maybe doing a bit of waiting.

This summer, as I strolled around my yard, checking out how each plant was doing, it hit me how much parenting teens can feel like tending a garden. And guess what? I had to spill th...

"As we heal the parts of us that, even in the midst of chaos, need to grieve over the loss of the family we dreamed would be ours, we get better at parenting. We learn to be ok with holding the reins a little looser because holding them tight never seems to bring our child closer.  And through this beautiful process of losing and finding, we stumble upon our sweet spot."

In today’s episode, we discuss the 4th and final stage of learning.  At this stage, our skills are developing and becoming ingrained in us thro...

“Parenting is not your purpose. It’s preparing you for your purpose.”

We often make the learning process more complicated than necessary because of the negative feelings we experience when as parents, we make mistakes.  Ironically, not doing it right and making mistakes are actually vital steps in the learning process.

In today’s episode, we are moving on to explore conscious competence parenting, which is stage 3 of any learning process.

Join us to learn more about….

Show-notes Episode 41

Title: The Learning Curve: Stage 2 of Learning to Parent a Teen in Crisis

Today’s episode is another bite sized episode, perfect for a quick walk around the neighborhood. The second of our mini series on the four stages we go through as we learn to parent a teen in crisis. These stages take us through the learning curve we face as we develop the skills needed in order to feel more confident in our parenting abilities.

I...

“Do the best you can until you know better. Then, when you know better, do better.”

Hey….You made it! I wondered if you would find the time this week, friend. I know that right now, you are juggling all the things, and finding a little time to shut off the chatter in your brain is challenging.

Today’s episode is bite-sized. Just about 20 mins from beginning to end to kick off a little mini-series we are doing on the four stages we go through as we learn to parent a teen in crisi...

“Everyone we meet is both our student and our teacher.”

Today’s episode is a countdown of the four factors that guide our parenting decisions.  Together we talk about the benefits & challenges that we experience with each one of these factors.

Join us to learn more about….

In this podcast episode, we discuss the anxieties and insecurities we face in our parenting journey and introduce the primary factors that should guide parenting decisions and three other inf...

“Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.”
Carl Jung

“And every day, the world will drag you by the hand, yelling, “This is important! And this is important! And this is important! You need to worry about this! And this! And this!” And each day, it’s up to you to yank your hand back, put it on your heart, and say, “No. This is what’s important.”
Iain Thomas

In today's episode, we talk about the important roles that connection an...

Sometimes it can feel like we are full-time firefighters. We rush from one crisis to the next, never really fixing problems, just trying to slow down the spread. 

Today we talk about the difference between reacting and responding and give you some practical advice on how you can begin the process of being more mindful of the things that are important to you in your relationship with your teen.

Learn more about …

"Friendship is a key coping mechanism for life’s tougher moments 💙"

In this final episode of our series on self-compassion, we're delving into one of the most cherished ways to practice self-care when you have a teen in crisis—spending time with friends.

Fact: The importance of self-care and the support of friends cannot be overstated.

Joining me in this conversation is my very best friend, Tonya. Together, we unwind and share insights on why friendship becomes our lifeline in the challenging journey of parenting teens in crisis.

Discove...

"Journaling is simply thinking through your fingers 💙"

Join us for the second part of my enlightening interview with Leif Holmes as we delve deeper into the profound connection between journaling and self-compassion. In this episode, we candidly explore the personal benefits we've experienced through journaling, the obstacles that sometimes hinder this practice, and the crucial steps to take when life's storms begin to roll in.

Key Insights:

“I write because I don’t know what I think until I read what I wrote” Flannery O’Connor

Join us in this week's episode as we continue to sow the seeds of self-compassion, accompanied by our insightful guest, Leif Holmes. Leif, a pastor with over 30 years of shared life experience with his wife, Laura, and raising three kids together, brings a unique perspective to our conversation.

Discover the beauty of journaling through Leif's lens—how it intertwines seamlessly with our self-care goals and the multitude of benefits he's unearthed...

In our recent survey, we asked parents navigating the tumultuous journey of raising teens in crisis about their self-care practices.

Here's a glimpse into their go-to strategies:

Today, we're delving into result number 3—Counseling, Support Groups, or 12-step Programs and how these practices relate to parenting a teen in crisis.

Key Insights:

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

Show-notes Episode 32

Self-Compassion 101: Your Body

"If your compassion does not include yourself, it is incomplete." Jack Kornfield

In today's episode, Megan Dahlman, Certified Trainer, Nutrition Coach, and mom of boys, shares what she believes moms navigating a season of chaos and uncertainty should do first on their self-compassion journey.

This episode's takeaways:

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

Pause for a moment; there's something crucial here.

In the world of parenting a teen facing challenges, self-care isn't just a luxury—it's a lifeline. It's about showing up as the kind of mama you can be proud of, even in the midst of tough times.

When we take charge of our well-being, we free our children from the weight of our struggles. It allows them to focus on navigating their own path without ...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

Show-notes Episode 30

Title: A Look at Teen Behaviors: Conflict

Today's episode is part 3 of our 3-part series looking at some common teen behaviors that you may be witnessing in your child and diving a little into why it happens, what about it creates challenges for us, and what we can do in response.

Understanding that conflict is less about an entitled teenager or a controlling mom an...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

Show-notes Episode 29

Title: A Look at Teen Behaviors: Manipulation

Today's episode is part 2 of a 3-part series where we will look into some common teen behaviors that you might be witnessing in your child and dive a little into why it happens, what about it creates challenges for us, and what we can do in response.

The behavior we are focusing on today is teen manipulation. Manipulatio...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

Today's episode is part 1 of a 3-part series where we will be looking into some common teen behaviors that you might be witnessing in your child and dive a little into you why it happens, what about it creates challenges for us, and what we can do in response.

The behavior we are focusing on today is isolating.  What are some things you can do if you are concerned about isolation?

T...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

Did you know studies show that over-involved parenting is associated with anxiety, depression, life dissatisfaction, and emotional dysregulation? In today’s episode, we talk about what everyone guilty of over-involved parenting wants to know.  If we’re not meant to fix the problem or behavior, what are we supposed to do? 

This episode's takeaways:

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

Show-notes Episode 27

Strengthening Your Relationship with Your Child

If life as a parent is less than perfect right now, if you feel like you are on a hamster wheel, living the same life over and over again, it may be an indication that it's time to make some shifts in your parenting. 

In today’s episode, we will talk about three practical ways you can begin to change your paren...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

The Greatest Risk You Are Facing

In today’s episode, we talk about the greatest risk you are facing this season (it’s not what you may think). We also discuss replacing reaction with rest, identifying the emotions that may indicate you could be in reaction mode, and the four steps you should take when you find yourself there.

Notes from the show:

Parents on this journey get stuck in a cy...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

Getting Through the Holidays

The holiday season can be challenging. In today's episode, we talk about some of the challenges you may face and a few new unexpected opportunities present this time of year. 

Resources: 

Pathways website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/ (Remember to Subscribe!)

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

Show-notes Episode 23

Finding Your Own Path

From the moment we become parents, we condition ourselves to recognize potential dangers. For this reason, as parents with children in the juvenile justice system, it's very challenging to know how much to get involved and how much to restrain. With all our focus on them and their path, we forget that we have our own journey on this path toward healing. In this episode, we talk ...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

Raw, Real & Unedited

Warning: Emotional Episode. 

Today, I was feeling all the feels. Having a podcast or running a social media page doesn’t make you an expert on anything. Don’t let anyone tell you anyone different. Being in this role brings so many blessings, and I’m so grateful to walk beside each of you during this season of life, but it also has its challenges. Today’s message was taken in a moment o...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

Show-notes Episode 21

Building Teen Competence and Confidence with Loving Detachment

One of the reasons we get so exhausted as parents is that we can become a little over-involved in our child's decisions. In this episode, we explore the practice of loving detachment and learn about the surprising impact it can have on building competency and confidence in your teen.

Listen as we review the two questions you should ask yo...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

Unyielding  Episode 20

The #1 Reason You Feel Exhausted

Raising teenagers can be EXHAUSTING; in this episode, we discuss the #1 reason for it. 

Join the conversation as I talk about the “Backpack Principle.” 

This new way principle brings awareness and clarity to what it looks like to begin the process of loving detachment. I’ve been practicing it for a couple of weeks now, and it has ...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

When Does the Healing Begin?

Parents who have been stretched thin are questioning their ability to continue holding and often ask when does the healing begin?

In this episode, we explore what healing really looks like on this journey with our child.

We also discuss some of our obstacles in getting to a place of healing, how our hope is found in the whispers, whether our patterns in parentin...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

Finding Meaning in the Mess

How do I do this, and how do I do it right? That’s the question nestled deep in the heart of every parent I meet.

In this episode, we talk about the two truths found in every action we take, and we also discuss the one thing that changed everything about my journey, as well as each parent I’ve coached or mentored that has been ab...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

The Secret to Reestablishing Trust 

For this final episode in Season 2, we are talking about trust. Upon reading that word, some of you are already thinking to yourself… I can’t trust my child right now. They’ve made so many choices that have me questioning their thinking. 

Well, today isn’t about trusting them. Today, we are talking about trusting ourselves. See, somewhere along the way, we lost that ability, ...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

Down Grief Mountain with Mary Cranston 

In part two of my interview with Mary Cranston, we begin looking ahead to the journey down the other side of Grief Mountain.  

What can we expect to encounter as we continue to navigate this journey?

Understanding the grieving process gives us permission to accept where we are, to see more clearly the work we are meant to do in this season, and to wait ...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

Sometimes we are so consumed with trying to keep our heads above water with court dates, challenging behaviors, and worrying about the future that it's easy to dismiss the fact that there is real grief under the surface. When thinking about the challenges of grief, one person came to mind that I knew would be an incredible blessing to you. Her name is Mary Cranston and she is a life coach, a counselor, a motivational speaker, and a published ...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

When The Challenge Changes You - Part 2

In Episode 14, A quick part two of our interview with Blake, he continues his candid conversation about what life was like as a teen in the juvenile justice system. Listen as he examines if there was anything that anyone could've done that may have changed the path he was on, discusses life after detention, his advice for parents, what his life is like today, and sends a personal message ...

When The Challenge Changes You - Blake’s Story

In this episode, I have the honor of interviewing Blake, who offers us the gift of his perspective on what it was like to be a child who experienced the juvenile justice system. 

In part one of this two-part interview, Blake openly shares his story of what life was like during his teen years. His experiences, the factors he believes influenced his decisions, his relationship with his mom and siblings, and what he credits as the difference-maker in him changing his...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

In this episode, I have the honor of interviewing Pete Feliciano. Pete graduated college with a degree in Law and Justice and a Master's degree in counseling. He recently retired from an extensive career working with hundreds of families in Thurston County Juvenile Court as a probation counselor for the last 32 years. Throughout those years, he has been a strong voice advocating for children and families in our community, and I am so grateful that he is on the show to...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

In part two of my podcast interview with Pastor Jim Ladd, we discuss the difference between protecting and equipping our child and learn what could be at risk if we don't get this right.

We also discuss the message our children receive when we constantly operate in protection mode and the question you should ask yourself if you find yourself helping a little too much.

If you have a child in crisis, we sincerely hope that y...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

Moving Through the Unknown with Purpose

This episode is the second in a series of interviews with different people offering different perspectives on what to consider as you walk beside your child through the justice system. 

Questioning what it looks like to parent well through a season we've never had to navigate before is a normal part of this process. In this episode, I have the honor of interviewing my pastor and friend, Jim La...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

Show-notes (episode 9): 

Today's episode is the first in a series of interviews. We will interview different people for each show to offer different perspectives on important things you may want to consider while navigating the justice system with your child. 

It takes a lot of courage to share your story with others. Many families are so afraid of being judged or labeled that they never share the struggles they experienced when they had a c...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

Are you always worried about what you'll say if someone asks you about your child? 

In Episode 8, we are talking about one of the most challenging aspects of having a child facing charges, on probation, or incarcerated. The challenge of how to approach talking to others about it. We'll discuss all the ins and outs of who you should trust with this information, what you should tell, and what to do when someone asks you and simply ...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

We all have different interpretations about what it means to be strong during a crisis. But, so often, when we find ourselves in the thick of it, our perception of what we should or shouldn’t reasonably be able to handle can be a little off.

In this episode, I discuss what I think it means to be strong and the importance of managing your mental health as you navigate this season. 

Resources: <...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

In Episode Six, we talk about the child at the center of it all,  your son or daughter, who has temporarily gone off track and is learning in real-time how to navigate the juvenile court system while feeling the full impact of a decision they made gone wrong.

Up until now, we’ve primarily talked about the feelings or experiences of others who the arrest of our child has impacted. We haven’...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

Having a child in crisis affects the entire family. Amid chaos and emotions, it's easy to overlook other family members who may not be directly involved, particularly siblings. Whether we talk about it with them or not, our children are very aware of the changes in the family dynamic and that the stress of the situation impacts us. This episode discusses how we should talk to our children about their sibling's arrest or incarceration.  We also talk abou...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

Studies show that couples argue more during their child's teen years than they do any other time in their child's developmental years. In episode four, we take at look at some of the ways having a child in crisis can impact your marriage/domestic relationship. From different parenting styles to the slippery slope of “Don’t tell dad,” I share a few lessons I had to learn the hard way. The show wraps up with a great practical trip to help keep you ...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

In Episode Three, we discuss the importance of understanding trauma while walking through this journey. More specifically, the trauma associated with parenting a child facing criminal charges.  We hear the advice of other moms who have walked this very same road, those who have faced this trauma, and hope to help strengthen you as you are walking through your own journey. 

Resources: 

Pathways website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/ 

Blog: https...

In Episode One, we take a look at the Juvenile Courts System. 
We talk through a little about what happens after an arrest, the diversion program (12:35), Detention (13:00), and Attorneys (15:00).  We also talk about what to expect at a hearing (19:00), Terms and Conditions (26:00), and Pretrial Hearings (28:30). Most importantly, though, we talk about how having a child in crisis is not an indicator of whether or not you are a good mom.  

Resources: 

Local and national resources: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/
Blog: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/blog-2/
FAQ: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/f-a-q/ 

...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

Part 2. Today we pick up where we left off in episode 1 and continue the conversation with more information on the juvenile court process. We’ll review felony and misdemeanor charges as well as degrees and counts. We’ll also briefly touch on plea deals & trials, what sentencing & probation look like, and then wrap the episode up by talking about record sealing.

Local Thurston County Juvenile Court Programs https://www.thurstoncountywa.gov/sc/Pages/court-cases...

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

Welcome to Unyielding 

My name is Angie, and as your host, my goal is to sit with you and meet you right where you are. To pick up on the conversation that is already going on in your head. I'm not afraid of tough conversations, and I'm not shy about giving a voice to the struggles you are facing. Most importantly, I'm here to remind you of all the ways the unyielding love you fee...