S2E274: Tackling Parent Burnout, Boundaries and Stress Management With Therapist Leah Marone (Part 1)

Parenting and educating in today’s world can feel like running a marathon without a finish line. In this episode, psychotherapist and wellness expert Leah Marone joins us to unpack parent and educator burnout, decision fatigue, and the relentless pressure of choosing the “right” path for your children. Leah shares practical strategies for setting boundaries, managing stress, and reclaiming balance, helping parents feel more resilient and confident in both life and education decisions.Leah's new book, Serial Fixer: www.serial-fixer.com

When Aheli transferred from one of the top public schools in her area to Alpha, her love of learning had all but disappeared. In this Student Spotlight episode, Aheli shares how personalized, goal-based learning helped her rediscover curiosity, confidence, and a genuine excitement for school again.

When Aheli transferred from one of the top public schools in her area to Alpha, her placement tests revealed a surprise- she was four grade levels behind in math! In this Student Spotlight episode, Aheli shares how she used Alpha’s AI tutoring and personalized pacing to catch up fast. Hear what the transition from traditional school to Alpha was really like, what “hole-filling” her education looked like, and how she’s now thriving in a system designed to meet her where she’s at.

In part two of this two-part series, MacKenzie and producer Jay continue to unpack something we don’t often talk about publicly: Parent Tenets. These are the core beliefs we ask every Alpha parent to buy into- and shape everything we do.From “change is constant” to “high standards are the key to your child’s happiness,” these tenets can be both inspiring and a little uncomfortable. If you’re curious about new ways to think about education, this episode will challenge your perspective and spark fresh ideas.

This week, MacKenzie and producer Jay are diving into something we don’t often talk about publicly: Parent Tenets. These are the core beliefs we ask every Alpha parent to buy into- and shape everything we do.From “change is constant” to “high standards are the key to your child’s happiness,” these tenets can be both inspiring and a little uncomfortable. In part one of this two-part series, we unpack where these ideas come from, why they matter, and how they play out in real life. If you’re curious about new ways to think about education, this episode will challenge your perspective and spark fresh ideas.

In part two of this series on developing the skill of confidence, MacKenzie is joined by Alpha Guide Shaas. Together, they break down exactly how confidence is taught at Alpha, and how the same strategies and principles can be used by anyone listening. From implementing subtle nonverbal techniques to developing and referencing “confidence anchors”, you’ll walk away with tangible tools to help your students or kids speak boldly, step into leadership, and believe in themselves.

Confidence is one of the most powerful skills a young person can develop- it shapes how they speak, lead, take risks, and show up in the world. And the good news? Confidence can be taught! In this episode, MacKenzie is joined by Shaas, one of Alpha’s talented Guides, to break down practical, proven strategies any parent or educator can use to help kids build lasting confidence. From subtle nonverbal techniques and “confidence anchors” to creative exercises like Alpha’s Hot Ones workshop, you’ll walk away with tangible tools to help your students or kids speak boldly, step into leadership, and believe in themselves.

In this episode, we return to our two-part series with Rhett Jones, an Alpha graduate and entrepreneur who launched his first business while still in high school. Through Alpha’s Masterpiece Program, Rhett set out to build a professional bike park during his senior year- a project that pushed him to raise $350K in just eight weeks, hire a crew of 10 full-time builders, and spend months managing the on-site construction. Today, that bike park is a thriving success, drawing media attention and becoming a popular destination in the community. Rhett’s story is a powerful example of how Alpha empowers students to set audacious goals, gain real-world experience, and graduate ready to run their own ventures. You won't want to miss this episode!!

This episode kicks off a two-part series with Rhett Jones, an Alpha graduate and entrepreneur who launched his first business while still in high school. Through Alpha’s Masterpiece Program, Rhett set out to build a professional bike park during his senior year- a project that pushed him to raise $350K in just eight weeks, hire a crew of 10 full-time builders, and spend months managing the on-site construction. Today, that bike park is a thriving success, drawing media attention and becoming a popular destination in the community. Rhett’s story is a powerful example of how Alpha empowers students to set audacious goals, gain real-world experience, and graduate ready to run their own ventures. You won't want to miss this series!!

In part 2 of this episode, MacKenzie sits down with Stacy Hock, Vice Chair of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, to discuss the current landscape of K-12 education reform. Drawing on her experience as an education leader and mom of four with kids in public, private, and Alpha schools, Stacy shares her perspective on tailoring education to each child’s unique needs and path. She also digs into the red tape and regulations that often hold schools back, and how reform could open doors for more innovation in learning.