Drop the Rope: How to Help (Not Enable) Your Teen Struggling with Weed, Vaping, or Alcohol with Amber Hollingsworth

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.

Send us a textDo you have a tween or teen who struggles to get excited about their life or find a sense of direction? It can feel overwhelming as a parent knowing how to support them. As a parent, do you struggle to know how to motivate them or know how to help them discover their gifts and what they love to do?As a parent, you want them to find purpose, but how can you help them find the right path in the midst of all the pressures and uncertainty of next steps and everyone else’s expectations?Well I’m excited to have Dana Roefer is with us today to talk about all of these things. We are diving into How to Build an Entrepreneurial Mindset in Our Tweens and Teens.Dana serves as the Vice President of Faith Driven Entrepreneur for Teens. Entrepreneurship has been at the heart of Dana’s career, both in launching her own ventures and supporting others in building theirs. She is passionate about helping entrepreneurs gain clarity, navigate challenges, and bring their ideas to life.Alongside her husband, Matt, Dana also founded the Grand Rapids Children's Business Fair and Journey Academy, creating opportunities for young people to explore innovation and entrepreneurship.What We Talk About:Supporting unmotivated tweens and teens: How to help your child find purpose and direction when they’re unsure of what they want to do.Building an entrepreneurial mindset: Why fostering an entrepreneurial spirit in teens can help them navigate life’s pressures and challenges.Dana’s background: How Dana’s career in entrepreneurship led her to create resources for teens, including the Faith Driven Entrepreneur for Teens program.Asking “why” before “what” and “where”: Why it’s crucial to help teens discover their “why” before making major decisions like college or career choices.The importance of curiosity and self-discovery: How exploring your teen’s interests and strengths early on can lead to greater clarity and confidence.Overcoming pressure and comparison: How to help teens deal with societal expectations, academic pressure, and self-doubt.The Faith Driven Entrepreneur for Teens program: A 12-episode digital course that helps teens discover their strengths, explore different careers, and connect with inspiring stories from entrepreneurs.Practical ways to get teens involved: How volunteering, exploring various activities, and asking insightful questions can help teens discover their interests and strengths.Where to find Dana and Faith Driven Entrepreneur for Teens: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 textDo you ever wonder why you get so reactive about what your tween or teen says or does? One minute, something they say doesn’t bother you, and the next, you feel like you’re about to lose it? What’s going on with that?In today’s episode, I’m joined by Shelly Robinson, a certified conscious parenting coach, the founder of Raising Yourself, and the creator of the Connected Kid Toolkit. Shelly is passionate about helping parents break generational cycles and build emotionally connected homes. With over half a million parents around the world engaging with her work, Shelly is transforming families one step at a time.Her work has been featured on platforms such as MindValley, GoZen, Raised Good, and Good News LA. Shelly has a wealth of wisdom to share, so I’m excited for you to hear her insights. You can find her resources at shellyrobinson.com.In This Episode, We Discuss:Shelly’s personal story and what led her to become a conscious parenting coach and the founder of Raising Yourself.The concept of reparenting—what it really means and why it’s such a vital process for today’s parents.A three-prong approach to parenting that helps parents do deep inner work while raising their children and healing generational wounds.The importance of emotional regulation—why it starts with the parent, not the child, and how we can practice it in everyday situations.Where to find Shelly:Website: shellyrobinson.com.The Connected Kid Toolkit: https://www.shellyrobinson.com/parenting-tools/connected-kid-toolkit/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raising_yourself/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/raisingyourself/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 textDid you know that the ages between 6 and 12 are often referred to as ‘the forgotten years’? In reality, these years are some of the most crucial in shaping our kids’ mental health and development. In this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Sheryl Ziegler back to the show to share insights from her upcoming book, The Crucial Years: The Essential Guide to Mental Health and Modern Puberty in Middle Childhood.Dr. Ziegler is a seasoned clinical psychologist, play therapist, podcast host, and author with over 20 years of experience. She has appeared as a mental health expert on major platforms, including The Today Show, The Doctors, and CNN, offering invaluable guidance to parents everywhere.In today’s conversation, we dive deep into the overlooked but essential years of middle childhood, exploring why these years between 6 and 12 are so foundational for kids’ mental health. We also discuss the impact of early puberty, modern challenges, and the growing pressures kids face in today’s digital world. Dr. Ziegler shares practical advice for parents on how to support their child’s mental health, resilience, and self-esteem during this transformative time.Where to find Dr. Sheryl Ziegler:Website: https://drsherylziegler.com/Her book - The Crucial Years: The Essential Guide to Mental Health and Modern Puberty in Middle Childhood (Ages 6-12): https://amzn.to/4iADtVMSupport 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.