How to Help Your Teen Plan for College (Without the Debt) with Shellee Howard from College Ready

Send us a textIt’s so easy to lose it when our kids’ emotions are running high. We tell them to “calm down,” and before we know it… we’re yelling too.If that sounds familiar, you’re going to love this episode.My special guest, Lisa Danahy, is a certified yoga therapist, educator, and founder of Create Calm. She’s spent more than 35 years helping kids, parents, and teachers learn practical ways to manage big emotions, regulate their nervous systems, and create more calm at home, in classrooms, and within themselves.Lisa shares some beautiful, down-to-earth tools you can start using right away — from “balloon breathing” to simple co-regulation practices that help both you and your kids reset in the heat of the moment. These are the kinds of things that actually work when your tween refuses to get out of bed, your teen is rolling their eyes, or you feel your own patience slipping.You’ll walk away feeling encouraged, equipped, and reminded that calm isn’t about control — it’s about connection.Grab your coffee, take a deep breath, and join us for this hopeful, heart-centered conversation.Mentioned in this episode:CreateCalm.orgCreating Calm in Your Classroom by Lisa Danahy - https://amzn.to/3LLiLaZMoms of Tweens and Teens Membership – community, resources, and workshops to help you connect more deeply with your tween or teenSupport the showCheck out What's Waiting For You At Moms of Tweens and Teens Find more encouragement, wisdom, and resources: Website: https://momsoftweensandteens.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/momsoftweensandteens/ Join our Community HERE. Find awesome resources HERE. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momsoftweensandteens/ Sheryl also has an Inner Circle weekly Parenting Program with a community of like-minded moms, personal coaching, and tons of resources to equip and support you to love well, navigate the challenges and meet your tween and teen’s unique needs during these pivotal years.

Send us a textIn this insightful conversation, Dr. Anna Levy-Warren, a licensed clinical psychologist and founder of Organizational Tutors, breaks down the concept of executive functioning (EF)—the brain processes that help kids and teens organize, plan, focus, and manage their emotions. Discover how everyday tasks like getting ready for school, homework, and handling transitions can feel overwhelming for both kids and parents. Dr. Levy-Warren shares actionable strategies to help families support their tweens and teens with EF challenges, while also addressing the role of anxiety and how to manage family dynamics.Key takeaways & tips:Use visual timers so time is seen, not just spoken.Do a 5-minute “start together”: help list the first 2–3 steps, then step back.Work backward from the real due date, including life events (games, birthdays, church, work).Expect a lag in shifting; name it and give a bridge (“Finish that last sentence, then let’s move to shoes”).Lead with repair over guilt: “I got activated. I’m sorry. Let’s try that again.”Model what you want to see: put your own phone away, breathe, open your calendar.Where to find Dr. Anna Levy-Warren:Organizational Tutors: organizationaltutors.comSupport the showCheck out What's Waiting For You At Moms of Tweens and Teens Find more encouragement, wisdom, and resources: Website: https://momsoftweensandteens.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/momsoftweensandteens/ Join our Community HERE. Find awesome resources HERE. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momsoftweensandteens/ Sheryl also has an Inner Circle weekly Parenting Program with a community of like-minded moms, personal coaching, and tons of resources to equip and support you to love well, navigate the challenges and meet your tween and teen’s unique needs during these pivotal years.

Send us a textIn this episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with Shelley Branine, and let me tell you—this conversation blew me away. Shelley is a truth seeker, freedom fighter, wife, and warrior mom of two amazing daughters—one of whom actually graduated from college just a week before finishing high school.As a mom myself, I was inspired hearing her story of how she navigated the college process with her girls and discovered the power of dual enrollment. Shelley explains how high school students can take college courses—often for free or at very little cost—and how this path not only saves families significant time and money but also gives students incredible confidence and real-world experience.I loved how Shelley shared not just the wins but also her own struggles with student loan debt, the misconceptions about dual enrollment, and the truth about scholarships and college athletics. She brings so much clarity to a topic that feels overwhelming for so many parents and students.If you’ve ever wondered about alternatives to the traditional (and expensive) college route, this episode is full of hope and practical steps. You’ll walk away knowing how to start the conversation with your guidance counselor, what questions to ask, and how to explore this smarter, debt-free option for your family.Shelley’s upcoming book, Finish College in High School (coming early 2026), will be an incredible resource, but for now, I can’t wait for you to hear her wisdom and encouragement in this episode.Where to find Shelley:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shelleybranine/Website and Articles Written by Shelley: https://shelleybranine.com/blog/Support the showCheck out What's Waiting For You At Moms of Tweens and Teens Find more encouragement, wisdom, and resources: Website: https://momsoftweensandteens.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/momsoftweensandteens/ Join our Community HERE. Find awesome resources HERE. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momsoftweensandteens/ Sheryl also has an Inner Circle weekly Parenting Program with a community of like-minded moms, personal coaching, and tons of resources to equip and support you to love well, navigate the challenges and meet your tween and teen’s unique needs during these pivotal years.

Send us a textIf your teen has been vaping, using weed, lying, or just seems totally unmotivated—and you’re tired of the constant arguments or feeling unsure how to help them turn things around—this episode is for you. Amber Hollingsworth is an addiction specialist and creator of the YouTube channel Put The Shovel Down—and in this interview, Amber shares what really helps when teens are experimenting, struggling, or unmotivated to change.Amber shares Why “waiting for rock bottom” backfires—and what creates change insteadThe #1 most enabling behavior (hint: it’s not giving $20)How to "Drop the rope” and get out of the tug-of-war and lower the resistanceHow you want natural consequences vs. parent-imposed punishment to do the teachingWhat true boundaries actually look like: spoiler - they are rules for yourself, not your teenHow to build “credit” with your teen so your words carry weightKey Takeaways:Don’t be the villain. When you argue, threaten, or lecture, you become the distraction that keeps your teen from looking inward.Let the world be the bad guy. Natural consequences teach; parent-made punishments often fuel denial and blame.Boundaries are about you. “If you’re arrested, I won’t pick you up”—that’s a boundary. “You can’t leave the house”—that’s a rule you likely can’t enforce.Lead with empathy, then influence. “I get why fitting in matters” opens ears; lectures close them.Build credibility (“credit”). When your teen feels understood, your guidance finally lands.Where to find Amber:Put The Shovel Down on YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PutTheShovelDown/videosConsults/coaching webiste: https://www.familyrecoveryacademy.online/Free Resources: https://www.familyrecoveryacademy.online/free-resourcesSupport the showCheck out What's Waiting For You At Moms of Tweens and Teens Find more encouragement, wisdom, and resources: Website: https://momsoftweensandteens.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/momsoftweensandteens/ Join our Community HERE. Find awesome resources HERE. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momsoftweensandteens/ Sheryl also has an Inner Circle weekly Parenting Program with a community of like-minded moms, personal coaching, and tons of resources to equip and support you to love well, navigate the challenges and meet your tween and teen’s unique needs during these pivotal years.

Send us a textDo you have a teen who spends most of their time in their room, glued to their phone, avoiding homework, and tuning you out—no matter what you say or do? You’re not alone—and today’s conversation will help you understand what’s really going on and what you can do about it.In this powerful and practical episode, Sheryl sits down with Dr. Melanie McNally, clinical psychologist, brain coach, and author of Helping Your Unmotivated Teen: A Parent’s Guide to Unlock Your Child’s Potential and The Emotionally Intelligent Teen. Since 2013, Melanie has helped hundreds of adolescents build emotional intelligence, motivation, and confidence—and today, she’s sharing her insights with us.You’ll hear why so many teens struggle with motivation today, how technology is affecting their brains and emotions, and what we can do as parents to help our tweens and teens develop drive, grit, and goals. You’ll also hear why the first step to helping your teen might be looking at your own phone habits—and how modeling change can make all the difference.What You’ll Learn (quick hits)Why tech disrupts self-regulation—and how to set simple family guardrailsThe listening shift that opens teens up (pause, reflect, then respond)Using both intrinsic and extrinsic motivators wiselyPairing structure with choice (e.g., “one sport + one club,” teen’s choice)How to spot small wins and transfer those skills to schoolWhere to Connect with Dr. Melanie:Website: drmelaniemcnally.com • Instagram: @drmelaniemcnally Books: Helping Your Unmotivated Teen : https://amzn.to/3IUpRc2The Emotionally Intelligent Teen: https://amzn.to/3VSlzF8Support the showCheck out What's Waiting For You At Moms of Tweens and Teens Find more encouragement, wisdom, and resources: Website: https://momsoftweensandteens.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/momsoftweensandteens/ Join our Community HERE. Find awesome resources HERE. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momsoftweensandteens/ Sheryl also has an Inner Circle weekly Parenting Program with a community of like-minded moms, personal coaching, and tons of resources to equip and support you to love well, navigate the challenges and meet your tween and teen’s unique needs during these pivotal years.

Send us a textDo you ever feel like all your tween or teen eats is buttered noodles or ramen? 🙋‍♀️ I hear this from so many moms — and I’ve been there too! We want our kids to eat healthier and learn life skills, but with everything on our plates, it feels impossible to make it happen.That’s why I’m so excited about this conversation with Katie Kimball. Katie is a mom of four, a former teacher, and the creator of Kids Cook Real Food, named the best online cooking class for kids by the Wall Street Journal. She’s passionate about helping families build a healthier relationship with food, and she has a gift for teaching kids (and parents!) the skills they need in the kitchen — and beyond.In this episode, Katie shares:How cooking can be a powerful way to connect with our kids and teach resilience.Why getting tweens and teens involved in the kitchen is one of the best gifts we can give them.Practical ways to help picky eaters expand their palate (without the battles).The life skills our kids gain when we let them take ownership and even fail in safe ways.How food impacts everything from mood to skin to energy — and how to help our kids notice it too.This was such a fun and eye-opening conversation. Katie reminds us that teaching our kids to cook isn’t about adding another thing to our never-ending list — it’s about inviting them into everyday life in ways that lighten our load, build their confidence, and set them up for success.Where to find Katie:👉 You can grab some of Katie’s free resources at kidscookrealfood.com/tweens-and-teensYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KatieKimballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiekimballkidscook/.Support the showCheck out What's Waiting For You At Moms of Tweens and Teens Find more encouragement, wisdom, and resources: Website: https://momsoftweensandteens.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/momsoftweensandteens/ Join our Community HERE. Find awesome resources HERE. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momsoftweensandteens/ Sheryl also has an Inner Circle weekly Parenting Program with a community of like-minded moms, personal coaching, and tons of resources to equip and support you to love well, navigate the challenges and meet your tween and teen’s unique needs during these pivotal years.

Send us a textFeeling burned out? Need some encouragement and inspiration? Or maybe you just need to hear a little reassurance today? Well, friend, you are in the right place. I am so excited to welcome our special guest, Tyra Lane-Kingsland, to the show!Whenever I talk to Tyra, I leave feeling so encouraged, refreshed, inspired, and filled up. She’s like going to an emotional chiropractor!She is a mother of six, the founder of Inspired Life, a passionate coach, speaker, author, and a true advocate for the well-being of moms everywhere.In this episode, she brings such wisdom about creating margin, setting boundaries, and prioritizing self-care. Tyra reminds us that our worth is not tied to our children’s achievements or our ability to do it all.Whether you’re overwhelmed, weary, or just need a little inspiration, Tyra’s words will help you feel lighter, more grounded, and empowered to care for your own heart as you care for your family.Let’s dive in!Where to find Tyra:Website: https://www.inspiredtolivefully.com/about/meet-tyra/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspiredfully/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Tyra+Lane+KinglandFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/inspiredfullySupport the showCheck out What's Waiting For You At Moms of Tweens and Teens Find more encouragement, wisdom, and resources: Website: https://momsoftweensandteens.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/momsoftweensandteens/ Join our Community HERE. Find awesome resources HERE. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momsoftweensandteens/ Sheryl also has an Inner Circle weekly Parenting Program with a community of like-minded moms, personal coaching, and tons of resources to equip and support you to love well, navigate the challenges and meet your tween and teen’s unique needs during these pivotal years.

Send us a text🎓 Feeling overwhelmed by the college process? You’re not alone.Whether your teen is unsure about their future or you’re wondering how you’ll ever afford college, this episode is packed with wisdom, clarity, and hope.I’m joined by Shellee Howard, founder and CEO of College Ready and mom of four—all of whom graduated debt-free, including a Harvard grad. Shellee shares how she turned her own confusion and frustration into a mission to help families navigate the college process with confidence, strategy, and clarity.✨ In this episode, we talk about:Why most families start in the wrong place when planning for collegeHow to help your teen discover who they are and what lights them upWhat makes a standout college essay (and how her son got into Harvard!)Why so many teens feel lost—and what to do about itHow to explore options without pressure and avoid massive debtThe ONE thing that can make all the differenceWhether your kid is a planner or a dreamer (or doesn’t even want to think about college yet), Shellee’s insight will help you support them with compassion, strategy, and a realistic plan.Where to find Shellee:FREE RESOURCE: Shellee is offering my listeners a free 30-minute consultation to help you get clear on what’s next. Visit 👉 https://collegeready.plan.infoInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/collegereadyplanWebsite: https://collegereadyplan.com/Contact Shellee to set up free consultation: [email protected] out Shellee’s bestselling book: How to Send Your Student to College Without Losing Your Mind or Your Money – https://amzn.to/3JjfNsWSupport the showCheck out What's Waiting For You At Moms of Tweens and Teens Find more encouragement, wisdom, and resources: Website: https://momsoftweensandteens.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/momsoftweensandteens/ Join our Community HERE. Find awesome resources HERE. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momsoftweensandteens/ Sheryl also has an Inner Circle weekly Parenting Program with a community of like-minded moms, personal coaching, and tons of resources to equip and support you to love well, navigate the challenges and meet your tween and teen’s unique needs during these pivotal years.

Send us a textHave you recently moved—or are you simply trying to feel more at home where you are? In this uplifting episode, I sit down with Ali Wenzke, author of The Art of Happy Moving, who has moved 10 times in 11 years and brings a wealth of wisdom on building community, letting go of clutter, and finding joy in life’s transitions.We dive into:The emotional side of moving (and why it’s not talked about enough)Practical, doable decluttering tips (even with sentimental items and kids!)How to make new friends as an adult without the pressureSupporting kids through the challenges of a moveWhy gratitude and connection are the real keys to happiness—wherever you live✨ Whether you’re preparing for a move or just looking to deepen your sense of belonging, this conversation will leave you feeling encouraged, empowered, and inspired to take your next step.📘 Grab Ali’s book, The Art of Happy Moving:📸 Follow Ali on Instagram: https://instagram.com/alliewenzke🌐 Visit her blog: https://artofhappymoving.com💗 Learn more about the Moms of Tweens and Teens Community: https://momsoftweensandteens.com📱 Follow Moms of Tweens and Teens on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momsoftweensandteensSupport the showCheck out What's Waiting For You At Moms of Tweens and Teens Find more encouragement, wisdom, and resources: Website: https://momsoftweensandteens.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/momsoftweensandteens/ Join our Community HERE. Find awesome resources HERE. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momsoftweensandteens/ Sheryl also has an Inner Circle weekly Parenting Program with a community of like-minded moms, personal coaching, and tons of resources to equip and support you to love well, navigate the challenges and meet your tween and teen’s unique needs during these pivotal years.

Send us a textIn this deeply moving episode, I sit down with Jennifer Thompson—blogger, speaker, and author of Return to Jesus—for an honest conversation about faith, shame, healing, and the unconditional love of God.Jennifer shares her powerful story of overcoming self-worth struggles and performance-based faith, including her experience with post-abortive shame and how a Bible study helped her finally understand that she is fully loved and accepted by God. Through raw honesty and vulnerability, Jennifer reminds us that we don’t have to hide the parts of our story that feel broken—we can bring them to Jesus and find redemption and peace.This episode is for anyone who has ever felt unworthy, distant from God, or unsure of their place in faith. Jennifer’s gentle, compassionate message is a breath of fresh air for weary hearts.You’ll hear about:Why Jennifer believes our hardest struggles are where connection and healing beginHow to move from performance-based faith to a deeper relationship with GodPractical ways to abide with God in everyday life (yes, even in the laundry and late-night feedings)Encouragement for moms who feel unseen, overwhelmed, or ashamed of parts of their pastA beautiful invitation to experience God’s love—no matter where you are in your faith journeyMentioned in this episode:➡️ Jennifer’s new book: Return to Jesus➡️ Connect with her at https://jenthompsonauthor.com/➡️ Read her blog: Truly Yours, Jen - https://trulyyoursjen.com/➡️ Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trulyyoursjen/Support the showCheck out What's Waiting For You At Moms of Tweens and Teens Find more encouragement, wisdom, and resources: Website: https://momsoftweensandteens.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/momsoftweensandteens/ Join our Community HERE. Find awesome resources HERE. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momsoftweensandteens/ Sheryl also has an Inner Circle weekly Parenting Program with a community of like-minded moms, personal coaching, and tons of resources to equip and support you to love well, navigate the challenges and meet your tween and teen’s unique needs during these pivotal years.