Are you feeling unprepared for the intense emotions and challenges of raising teens? Do you wonder if other moms are going through the same struggles with friendships, independence, and emerging adulthood?

In this special 300th episode of Power Your Parenting: Moms with Teens, Colleen O’Grady invites four close friends—moms who’ve been through it all—for an honest and heartfelt conversation. Together, they reflect on the middle school and high school years, navigating everything from shifting friendships and social media pressures to the bittersweet milestones of teenage independence. They share raw and relatable stories about the struggles, like dealing with broken hearts, driving privileges, and different parenting values. Beyond the challenges, they celebrate the moments of joy, laughter, and growth that come with watching their teens mature into young adults.

Sue Ludwig is a mom of two grown kids, ages 27 and 25. She is the president and founder of the national association of neonatal therapists, an occupational therapist by background, and author of the book, Tiny Humans, Big Lessons.

Dr. Shannon D. South, aka the “Joy Doctor”, is an award winning therapist, an amazon best-selling author, and an inspirational speaker. She is an expert in the field of spirituality and healing trauma for over 25 years and the Founder of the Inner Counselor Certification Program.

Sara Dickison Taylor is President and Founder of Celebrate Life by Design, LLC. As a certified Executive Leadership Coach, she has helped countless individuals maximize their life potential and turn their wildest dreams into reality.

Sherry Duson is a family therapist who has been in practice since 1999. She has specialized in the needs of new mothers, focusing on perinatal mental health, both as a practitioner and the founder of The Center for Postpartum Family Health in Houston, Texas.  

Here are three powerful takeaways from the episode: First, let go of perfection and trust the process—it’s okay if the journey isn’t linear; your kids will find their way in their own time. Second, focus on building connection over control—your relationship will matter far more than the pressures of grades, college, or success. Finally, prioritize yourself as a mom—taking care of your emotional well-being models resilience and self-love for your teens.

Whether you’re in the trenches of middle school drama or navigating the complexities of launching young adults, this episode is a reminder that you’re not alone, and there’s joy in the journey.

https://sueludwig.com/

https://www.instagram.com/sue.ludwig/

https://drshannonsouth.com/

https://www.instagram.com/drshannonsouth/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-dickison-taylor-21681010/

https://www.instagram.com/celebratethebestu/

https://www.sherryduson.com/

https://www.instagram.com/sherryduson/

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