How do you guide your teen without overwhelming them—or yourself? In this episode I sit down with Kirsten Cobabe, a former therapist turned coach, to explore a refreshing approach to parenting teenagers. Together, they discuss how to replace unnecessary rules with meaningful conversations, foster trust while allowing autonomy, and navigate the challenges of adolescence with curiosity and respect.

From peer pressure and risky behaviors to digital monitoring and school stress, Kirsten shares expert insights on preparing preteens for what’s ahead and maintaining a strong, supportive bond with your teen. If you’re looking for practical strategies to parent with intention—without micromanaging—this episode is packed with wisdom to help you cultivate a balanced, connected relationship with your growing child.

Links Discussed in This Episode |

• Previous Episode: The Opt-Out Family | How to Give Your Kids What Technology Can't with Erin Loechner (EP339)
• Previous Episode: When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic (& What We Can Do About It) | Jennifer Wallace (EP346)
• Connect with Kirsten:
• Website
• Instagram
• Parenting Wave

About Kirsten |

Kirsten Cobabe, former therapist turned coach, teen whisperer and artist, specializes in supporting families navigate the waves of adolescence. For over two decades, she has guided parents in learning how to listen to, and talk with, their teens. She engages parents in personal reflection, embracing their evolving role, understanding the teen brain and restoring harmony in the home. In recognizing this unique stage of development, her hope is to bridge the widening gap between parents and their children, creating timeless bonds. Through compassionate guidance, intentional strategies and a tailored approach, Kirsten empowers families to pilot these pivotal years with deeper awareness. Her work is not just about addressing immediate concerns, but about lighting the path to a more empowered future, ensuring that today's challenges become the foundation for tomorrow's brighter relationships. Kirsten works with parents, teens and the entire family with a holistic lens, starting with what is already working while looking to the roots to better understand the fruits.

Work with Me |

If you’ve been struggling with motivation to work through bad habits that are keeping you stuck, I’d love to help you achieve your goals! We’ll work together (locally or virtually) to discover what areas in your life are high priority to get you feeling less overwhelmed right away. 

For more info on my processes, fees, and availability please contact!

Episode Sponsors |

Clear Intentions would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal!

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Further Questions |

• You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook.
• Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane (and a FULL list of previous guests' books!)
• Grab a copy of my first book Minimalist Moms: Living and Parenting with Simplicity
• Checkout a list of my past collaborative podcasts here!

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