Nurturing the Mind and Heart: Salesian Wisdom for Raising Teen Girls

In this episode, Kati and Ellen explore the transitions in family life, education, and personal growth, highlighting how to navigate change with confidence and resilience. From summer routines to high school and college transitions, we offer practical insights for parents and students alike.

In this insightful episode, Kati and Ellen chat with science and math teacher Michal Kolpak about the delicate balancing act of caring for aging parents and teenage daughters, emphasizing the importance of communication, self-care, and family inclusion. Discover practical tips for managing multiple generations, fostering independence in teens, and staying resilient through life's surprises.

In this episode, Kati and Ellen host a compelling discussion with Mary McVearry Austin ‘99, a pelvic health physical therapist, exploring menopause, teenage health, and the importance of self-care. They share practical advice, scientific insights, and compassion-driven perspectives to support women and families through life's transitions.

In this conversation, Kati and Ellen explore the significance of Easter, the meaning of being resurrection people, and how faith and hope can guide us through life's crosses. We offer insights into spiritual growth, family traditions, and the symbolism of rebirth during spring.

Mike Williams, leading trial lawyer and partner with Kirkland & Ellis, spoke to Georgetown Visitation as part of our Fides et Scientia - faith and knowledge - speaker series, sharing his experience and lessons from his pro-bono work, representing inmates on death row. He shares his love for his family and his fight for the dignity of all people, even in very difficult circumstances.

In this conversation, Dr. Liz Turner discusses her journey in music education, emphasizing the importance of joy in singing and the role of the arts in community building. She shares insights on developing confidence in young performers, the empowerment that comes from theater, and the life lessons learned through the arts. The conversation highlights the significance of teamwork and collaboration in performances, concluding with reflections on the joy and growth experienced by students in their artistic endeavors.

In this conversation, Kati and Ellen discuss the importance of creating a nurturing and safe home environment for children as they grow. They emphasize the need for intentionality in home design, particularly in how spaces are personalized with family art and memories. The discussion also covers the significance of comfort and functionality in furniture choices, encouraging social interaction among children, and fostering a spirit of generosity and hospitality in the home. Additionally, the incorporation of spirituality into home decor is highlighted as a way to create a meaningful living space.

At Georgetown Visitation’s Salesian Motherhood Workshop, speaker Krista Simpson Anderson speaks about her journey of marriage and motherhood, then being suddenly widowed and how she relearned to embrace joy, to mother her children, and to trust God even in the grief and sorrow of life. Krista co-founded The Unquiet Professional to support military families and survivors and founded Brave Group, LLC to help educate the community on the importance of preparing for the unexpected.

In this engaging conversation, Kati, Ellen, and a guest, longtime Visitation staff member Arjetta Faulkner-Ekandem, explore the multifaceted nature of prayer and its significance in personal and communal life. Arjetta shares her journey of developing a personal prayer life, emphasizing the importance of direct communication with God. The discussion delves into how to listen for God's voice amidst life's busyness, the strength found in prayer during challenging times, and the role of prayer in teaching children about faith. The conversation highlights various forms of prayer, the importance of authenticity, and the impact of mentorship in spiritual growth.

At Georgetown Visitation’s Salesian Motherhood Workshop, speaker Ann O’Neil Gradowski ‘81 spoke about how mothers can “be who we are and be that very well so as to bring honor to the Master Craftsman whose handiwork you are” (St. Francis de Sales). She shared personal stories and insights about the different phases of mothering our children and nurturing other people.