Parenting in the digital age isn’t about control, it’s about connection. Sherry Smothermon-Short shares how Scouting and real-world adventures build independence, creativity, and communication in kids who are ready to thrive beyond the screen.

What You’ll Hear:

• How Scouting helps kids build independence, creativity, and confidence that last a lifetime
• Why open communication is the key to raising grounded, self-aware kids in a digital era
• How to guide (not rescue) your children as they navigate responsibility and risk
• The simple truth that people are inherently good, and how that belief can reshape how we parent
• How involvement, curiosity, and trust create a foundation for real connection between parents and kids

Sherry’s Breakthrough Moment (it’ll give you chills)

Somewhere between a solo trip across the world and a quiet moment at a campsite, Sherry realized something profound … independence isn’t about doing it all alone; it’s about trusting yourself enough to try.

That awareness changed everything, in how she parented, how she led, and how she encouraged others to show up with courage and curiosity. It’s the moment she stopped protecting her kids from every stumble and started celebrating their strength to stand back up.

Resources Mentioned

https://printablesandmoreclub.com/

Featured Guest: Sherry Smothermon-Short

Sherry Smothermon-Short is a writer, parent, and lifelong Scout leader who helps families raise confident, curious, and compassionate kids in a fast-changing world. As the founder of Cub Scout Ideas, she’s inspired countless families to explore the outdoors, discover new skills, and connect through meaningful Scouting experiences. She also leads the Printables and More Club, a creative community that helps bloggers and entrepreneurs build thriving businesses with printable digital products.

With more than a decade of experience balancing family life, business, and creativity, Sherry brings a grounded wisdom to everything she does. Her work reminds us that independence and connection can coexist — and that growth often comes from letting go, leaning in, and learning along the way.

Meet the Host: Adrienne Giffen

Adrienne Giffen is an executive recruiter, author of Unravel You, and creator of the intergenerational board game Now You’re Talking™. Through her podcast, she invites families and friends to trade screens for stories, sparking heartfelt conversations that bridge generations. Her work is rooted in a passion for helping people rediscover connection, courage, and joy in today’s digital world.

Connect with the Host:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriennegiffen/

https://unravelyou.com/

https://nowyouretalkinggame.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@NowYoureTalkingPodcast

https://www.instagram.com/nowyouretalkinggame/

Do you ever feel like you and your kids are in the same room, but not really together? START TALKING TODAY : 5 Questions to Spark Real Conversations With Your Kids : https://nowyouretalkinggame.com/start-talking-today/

Now You're Talking is proud to be on the High Vibe Podcast Network. Check out Adrienne’s Gift in the Vault https://highvibepodcastnetwork.com/gifts

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