Parenting Teens: Advice Redefined for Today's Complex World

#ParentingTeens #AdoptiveParents #AdoptedTeens #Adoption #AdoptionAwareness #AdoptionAndIdentity #TeenParenting #ParentingAdolescents

Parenting a teenager is complicated enough. But when adoption is part of your teen's story, there can be another layer of questions, emotions, grief, identity, attachment and belonging that parents may not always know how to navigate.

In this deeply honest conversation, I sit down with Donna Pope, an adoption advocate and member of the team at Heart to Heart Adoptions. Donna brings more than 30 years of experience working with birth mothers, adoptive families and adoptees — and she also speaks from personal experience as the adoptive mother of three boys.

And she doesn't pretend to have all the answers.

In fact, some of the most powerful moments in this conversation come from Donna openly sharing the mistakes she's made, the things she wishes she had understood sooner, and what she has learned about loving a child without making their struggles a reflection of your success as a parent.

We talk about:

• Why adolescence can bring adoption-related questions to the surface
• Why adopted teens may struggle with “Why did my biological parent give me up?”
• The importance of being honest with children about their adoption story
• How secrecy can affect trust and identity
• The difference between guilt and shame
• What happens when an adopted teen wonders whether they will become like their biological parents
• Genetics versus environment — and why parents need to separate their fears from their teen's concerns
• Attachment and how early experiences can show up years later
• Why transracial adoption can create additional questions around identity and belonging
• The importance of representation and community
• How grief can exist alongside love
• The complicated emotions surrounding biological parents and siblings
• Why an adopted teen's feelings about their biological family may change over time
• What parents can do when their teen is struggling in ways they never anticipated
• Why adoptive parents need support and counseling too
• And perhaps most importantly: how to stop measuring your worth as a parent by the outcome of your child

Donna shares a powerful perspective that applies far beyond adoption:

Your child can be themselves without their choices determining whether you're a “good” or “bad” parent.

You can love your child deeply, remain connected to them, and still recognize that they are their own person.

And sometimes, loving them means getting the support you need outside the family.

A powerful reminder for any parent

If you've ever sat awake at night wondering:

Am I failing my child?

Why can't I fix this?

What did I do wrong?

Why isn't my child turning out the way I thought they would?

You're not alone.

And your child's struggles are not a report card on your parenting.

As Donna says, sometimes you just have to keep caring, keep trying and keep going.

Donna Pope is an adoption advocate and part of the team at Heart to Heart Adoptions, an organization supporting birth mothers, adoptive families and the broader adoption community.

Donna has more than 30 years of experience in adoption and is also an adoptive mother of three sons.

Heart to Heart Adoptions: hearttoheartadopt.com

This episode is especially for:

• Adoptive parents of teenagers
• Parents navigating adoption-related identity questions
• Parents of teens struggling with belonging or self-worth
• Transracial adoptive families
• Parents navigating attachment challenges
• Parents dealing with difficult teen behaviour
• Parents who are questioning whether they're “doing enough”
• Anyone who loves or supports an adopted teenager

YOUR GIFT- GUIDE FOR GRADE 8 TO GRADE 9 IEP TRANSITIONS

https://www.cherylpankhurst.com/iep-high-school-transition-parent-quick-guide

Let’s Chat https://tidycal.com/cherylpankhurst/consultation-chat

http://cherylpankhurst.com

Connect with Cheryl!

Get the book here!

Daring to Belong: Autism Stories of Courage and Connection

DIRECT LINK TO COACHING WITH CHERYL

 email : [email protected] 

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SOCIALS:

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PODCAST- “PARENTING TEENS ADVICE REDEFINED FOR TODAY’S WORLD

THE PODCAST

https://open.spotify.com/show/4QwFMJMDDSEXJb451pCHO9?si=9c1a298387c84e13

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYv9FQy1X43wwoYg0zF8zAJw6-nCpHMAk&si=7p-e4UlU2rsG3j_t

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Parenting Teens Advice Redefined

Connect with Donna Pope

https://hearttoheartadopt.com/

https://www.instagram.com/hearttoheartadoptions/

https://www.facebook.com/HeartToHeartAdoption

https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-pope-41652ba/

#WTFPodcast #ParentingTeens #ParentingTeenagers #TeenParenting #MomLife #MomsOfTeens #SelfCompassion

Cheryl explores the difference between doing something because it genuinely helps you regulate and doing something because you're desperately trying to escape an uncomfortable feeling.

She also talks about the importance of having someone you can call and simply say, “I'm having a really crappy day. Can I talk?”

Because when a friend told Cheryl, “Oh my God, I'm glad I'm not the only one,” Cheryl realized something:

It's almost never just you.

Sometimes we're human. Sometimes we're off. Sometimes the kitchen is a mess, the laundry isn't done, the emails aren't sent, and you're simply not at your best.

You don't have to feel guilty about it.

You don't have to turn it into a lesson.

You don't have to force yourself to be positive.

Sometimes you can just feel it, sit with it, call a friend, go outside, listen to some live music—and let the day be what it is.

Because tomorrow doesn't have to be perfect either.

It's just another day.

In This Episode

• Why Cheryl woke up feeling completely unlike herself
• The pressure we put on ourselves to “fix” a bad day
• The difference between calming yourself and running away from a feeling
• Why gratitude doesn't mean you have to feel good every day
• The guilt that can come with having an unexplained bad day
• Why saying “I'm having a shitty day” can actually be incredibly freeing
• The importance of connection when you're struggling
• Why sometimes the best thing you can do is simply allow yourself to feel what you're feeling
• A reminder that it's never just you

The Takeaway

You are allowed to have an off day.

You can have a great life and still have a terrible Tuesday.

You can be grateful and still feel crappy.

You can be successful, grounded, happy, and still wake up one morning thinking, “What the hell is wrong with me?”

Nothing may be wrong with you.

You might just be human.

And instead of running from the feeling, maybe today you can simply say:

“Yep. This is an FDAP day. I'm allowed to have it.”

Then let it be.

Connect With Cheryl

If you're having one of those days and don't have someone you can call, Cheryl invites you to send her a DM. Sometimes you don't need someone to fix anything—you just need someone to say:

“Yep. I get it. You're not the only one.”

Listen, share this episode with the friend you called the next day to tell them about your crappy day, and remind them that they never have to go through it alone.

YOUR GIFT- GUIDE FOR GRADE 8 TO GRADE 9 IEP TRANSITIONS

https://www.cherylpankhurst.com/iep-high-school-transition-parent-quick-guide

Let’s Chat https://tidycal.com/cherylpankhurst/consultation-chat

http://cherylpankhurst.com

Connect with Cheryl!

Get the book here!

Daring to Belong: Autism Stories of Courage and Connection

DIRECT LINK TO COACHING WITH CHERYL

 email : [email protected] 

Website  cherylpankhurst.com

SOCIALS:

My Substack

linkedin.com/in/l. R.cheryl-ann-pankhurst-1b611855

https://www.instagram.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst/                       https://www.facebook.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst

PODCAST- “PARENTING TEENS ADVICE REDEFINED FOR TODAY’S WORLD

THE PODCAST

https://open.spotify.com/show/4QwFMJMDDSEXJb451pCHO9?si=9c1a298387c84e13

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYv9FQy1X43wwoYg0zF8zAJw6-nCpHMAk&si=7p-e4UlU2rsG3j_t

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Parenting Teens Advice Redefined

#CoParenting

#HighConflictCoParenting

#DivorceAndParenting

#ParentingAfterDivorce

#CoParentingAfterDivorce

#ParentingTeens

If you're navigating divorce, separation, high-conflict co-parenting, or difficult communication with an ex, this conversation is one you need to hear.

What happens when a simple text from your co-parent can instantly send your nervous system into overdrive? What happens when the conflict between adults starts affecting the emotional safety of your teenager or child—even when you think you're hiding it?

In this episode of Parenting Teens Advice Redefined, Cheryl Pankhurst sits down with Sol Kennedy, founder of Best Interest, an AI-powered communication app designed to help co-parents pause before reacting, reduce conflict, and keep communication focused on their children.

Sol shares the personal experience that led him to create Best Interest after realizing how much co-parenting communication was affecting his own sleep, stress, and ability to be fully present with his children.

But this conversation goes far beyond an app.

In this episode, we talk about:

• Why a single text from your ex can trigger an immediate physical stress response
• Why high-conflict co-parenting can keep parents stuck in the same patterns they experienced during their marriage
• The danger of using AI as a “yes man” when you're emotionally triggered
• Why effective co-parenting sometimes requires someone—or something—to push back on you
• How to establish communication boundaries with a difficult co-parent
• How filtering unnecessary or toxic communication can help parents regain a sense of control
• Why children can sense parental tension even when adults believe they're successfully hiding it
• The invisible emotional scripts children absorb from tone, facial expressions, body language, sighs, and conflict
• Why telling a child “I'm fine” when they can clearly sense something is wrong can undermine their trust in their own perception
• How parents can model emotional regulation instead of demanding that children “calm down”
• Why taking a break during conflict is not avoidance—it can be regulation
• The impact of criticizing your child's other parent in front of them
• Why children can feel caught in a loyalty bind when one parent speaks negatively about the other
• A simple strategy to use before responding to a triggering co-parenting text
• Why the text messages you send today could potentially appear in family court years later
• How changing your own response can begin changing the entire co-parenting dynamic
• Why your ex may actually become your biggest teacher for the parts of yourself that still need healing
• How parents can begin repairing the impact of conflict—even if they wish they had handled things differently in the past

The One Co-Parenting Rule Sol Wants Every Parent to Remember

Take a break.

When you receive a message from your co-parent, read it and put the phone down.

Walk around. Take a breath. Go outside. Do whatever helps you create space between the trigger and your response.

The goal isn't to ignore important information. It's to give yourself enough time to respond from your thinking brain rather than from the emotional reaction that can take over when you're triggered.

And perhaps the bigger question is:

Who do you want to show up as for your kids?

You can't control what your ex sends you.

You can control what you send back.

A Powerful Reminder for Parents

If you've already exposed your kids to conflict, don't decide that you've ruined everything.

Awareness is the beginning of change.

Sol reminds parents that divorce and separation can involve enormous stress—court, finances, housing, changing jobs, changing homes, and trying to create stability while everything feels unstable. Parents aren't necessarily going to handle every moment perfectly.

The question isn't whether you've made mistakes.

The question is:

What are you willing to do differently now?

About Sol Kennedy

Sol Kennedy is the founder of Best Interest, an AI-powered communication tool created specifically around the dynamics of co-parenting. Best Interest is designed to help parents communicate more effectively, establish boundaries, filter unnecessary conflict, and keep the focus on the children.

Sol created Best Interest after experiencing firsthand how high-conflict co-parenting communication affected his own stress and relationship with his children.

Best Interest is available through its website and mobile app, with a free version and additional paid features.

Sol is the founder of BestInterest, an AI-powered communication app being called "life saving" by parents in tough family situations. BestInterest was recently nominated for a Webby Award — for its work helping families filter out toxic messages and keep the focus on their kids. Sol built BestInterest after seeing firsthand how everyday parenting communication can either become a battleground or a bridge, and is on a mission to help parents pause before reacting, protect kids from adult conflict, and rebuild trust one message at a time.

https://bestinterest.app or on Instagram: instagram.com/bestinterest.app Facebook: facebook.com/bestinterestapp YouTube: youtube.com/@BestInterestApp

About Cheryl Pankhurst

Cheryl Pankhurst is an Educational Strategist, Family Advocate, speaker, published author, and the host of Parenting Teens Advice Redefined for Today's Complex World.

With more than 25 years of experience supporting adolescents, families, and schools, Cheryl helps parents navigate everything from neurodivergent diagnoses and assessments to IEPs, school advocacy, transitions, and beyond.

YOUR GIFT- GUIDE FOR GRADE 8 TO GRADE 9 IEP TRANSITIONS

https://www.cherylpankhurst.com/iep-high-school-transition-parent-quick-guide

Let’s Chat https://tidycal.com/cherylpankhurst/consultation-chat

Connect with Cheryl!

Get the book here!

Daring to Belong: Autism Stories of Courage and Connection

DIRECT LINK TO COACHING WITH CHERYL

 email : [email protected] 

Website  cherylpankhurst.com

SOCIALS:

My Substack

linkedin.com/in/l. R.cheryl-ann-pankhurst-1b611855

https://www.instagram.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst/                       https://www.facebook.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst

PODCAST- “PARENTING TEENS ADVICE REDEFINED FOR TODAY’S WORLD

THE PODCAST

https://open.spotify.com/show/4QwFMJMDDSEXJb451pCHO9?si=9c1a298387c84e13

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYv9FQy1X43wwoYg0zF8zAJw6-nCpHMAk&si=7p-e4UlU2rsG3j_t

Optin-podcast subscriber

Parenting Teens Advice Redefined

#ParentingTeens #NeurodivergentTeens #ADHDParenting #ADHDMedication #NeurodivergentParenting

If you’re parenting a neurodivergent teenager and struggling with questions about ADHD medication, diagnosis, anxiety, school supports, or what your teen actually needs, this conversation is for you.

In Part 2 of my conversation with Lisa Richer, we take a deeper look at one of the most emotionally charged decisions parents of neurodivergent kids can face: medication.

But this episode isn’t about telling you whether medication is right or wrong.

It’s about helping you make decisions from a place of information, curiosity and connection rather than fear, shame or pressure.

Lisa and I talk openly about our own experiences with ADHD, parenting neurodivergent children, diagnosis, medication and the importance of looking at the whole child—not just the most obvious behaviour or diagnosis.

One of the biggest takeaways?

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to supporting a neurodivergent teen.

What works beautifully for one child may not be appropriate for another.

And sometimes what looks like ADHD, anxiety, defiance, lack of motivation or poor behaviour may actually be connected to an underlying learning difference, communication challenge, sensory need or another unmet need.

In this episode, we explore:

• How parents can think differently about ADHD medication for teens
• Why medication decisions shouldn’t be made from fear, guilt or outside pressure
• The importance of combining medication with appropriate interventions, tools and supports
• Why a diagnosis should inform your understanding of your teen—not define them
• How anxiety, ADHD and other neurodivergent differences can interact
• Why parents need to look beyond the most obvious diagnosis
• The importance of understanding the whole child
• How learning differences can affect confidence, anxiety, regulation and school success
• Why behaviour is communication
• How to build a support team for your neurodivergent teen
• The roles that educators, psychologists, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, advocates and other professionals can play
• Why parents should trust their instincts while also seeking professional guidance
• How parents can move from “I failed my child” to “What do we know now, and what is the next step?”
• Why asking for help is a strength—not a failure
• How parents can model self-advocacy for their teenagers

One of the most important messages for parents

You don't have to choose between “medication” and “no medication.”

The bigger question is:

What does my teen need, and what combination of supports will help them understand themselves, function more effectively and become a stronger self-advocate?

As Lisa says, we don't know what we don't know.

Sometimes the missing piece is another assessment.

Sometimes it's a school support.

Sometimes it's a different intervention.

Sometimes it's medication.

And sometimes it's bringing the right people together to finally see the complete picture.

For parents of neurodivergent teens

If you're thinking:

“Something isn't working, but I don't know what we're missing.”

You're not alone.

You don't have to figure it out by yourself.

The goal isn't to find the perfect parenting strategy or make the perfect decision every time.

The goal is to stay curious, keep learning, ask better questions and make informed decisions based on your teenager's unique needs.

ABOUT LISA RICHER

Lisa Richer is a Neurodivergent Success Partner and Advocate who helps transform “stuck” into success for students, athletes, parents, professionals and families.

Through her Clarity, Confidence, Courage Journey Map, Lisa helps clients navigate internal, relational and systemic roadblocks while connecting them with the tools, resources and people they need to move forward.

CONNECT WITH ME

I'm Cheryl Pankhurst, an Educational Strategist, Family Advocate and School Navigation Consultant with more than 25 years of experience supporting teenagers and their families.

I help parents navigate:

• Neurodivergent diagnoses
• School challenges
• IEPs and accommodations
• Assessments
• High school transitions
• Advocacy meetings
• Building effective support teams

If your teen is struggling at school, you've received a new diagnosis, or you're wondering what to do next, you don't have to navigate it alone.

Visit CherylPankhurst.com to learn more and book a complimentary consultation.

LISTEN • FOLLOW • SHARE

If this episode helped you understand your neurodivergent teen differently, please:

⭐ Follow the podcast

⭐ Leave a review

⭐ Share this episode with another parent of a neurodivergent teen

Because sometimes the conversation a parent needs is the one they didn't even know they needed to have.

#ParentingADHD #ADHDTeens #AutismParenting #TeenMentalHealth #SpecialEducation #ParentAdvocacy #SchoolAdvocacy #Neurodiversity #ADHDSupport #ParentingNeurodivergentKids #IEPAdvocacy #TeenADHD #NeurodivergentFamilies #EducationalAdvocate #ParentingSupport

YOUR GIFT- GUIDE FOR GRADE 8 TO GRADE 9 IEP TRANSITIONS

https://www.cherylpankhurst.com/iep-high-school-transition-parent-quick-guide

Let’s Chat https://tidycal.com/cherylpankhurst/consultation-chat

Connect with Cheryl!

Get the book here!

Daring to Belong: Autism Stories of Courage and Connection

DIRECT LINK TO COACHING WITH CHERYL

 email : [email protected] 

Website  cherylpankhurst.com

SOCIALS:

My Substack

linkedin.com/in/l. R.cheryl-ann-pankhurst-1b611855

https://www.instagram.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst/                       https://www.facebook.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst

PODCAST- “PARENTING TEENS ADVICE REDEFINED FOR TODAY’S WORLD

THE PODCAST

https://open.spotify.com/show/4QwFMJMDDSEXJb451pCHO9?si=9c1a298387c84e13

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYv9FQy1X43wwoYg0zF8zAJw6-nCpHMAk&si=7p-e4UlU2rsG3j_t

Optin-podcast subscriber

Parenting Teens Advice Redefined

#ParentingTeens #NeurodivergentTeens #ADHDParenting #AutismParenting #EducationalAdvocate #FamilyAdvocate

Parents often believe advocacy means speaking louder.

But what if the most powerful advocacy is teaching your teen to speak for themselves?

In this heartfelt conversation, I sit down with neurodiversity consultant Lisa Richer to discuss what every parent of an ADHD or autistic teen needs to know about advocacy, collaboration, and creating lasting independence.

Together, we explore why a diagnosis should inform—not define—your child, why accommodations are only effective when your teen understands them, and how parents can move from fighting every battle to empowering their child to eventually lead the conversation.

If you've ever felt overwhelmed by IEP meetings, school systems, accommodations, or simply wondering whether you're "doing enough," this episode will remind you that advocacy isn't about conflict—it's about connection.

In this episode you'll learn:

✔ Why neurodiversity should be understood—not fixed

✔ The difference between advocating for your child and advocating with your child

✔ How to help your teen develop lifelong self-advocacy skills

✔ Why involving your child in IEP and school meetings matters

✔ Common mistakes parents make after an ADHD or autism diagnosis

✔ How to collaborate with schools instead of entering every meeting in battle mode

✔ Why the best advocates help families become independent—not dependent

✔ Practical ways to create stronger parent-school partnerships

Whether your teen has ADHD, autism, executive functioning challenges, learning disabilities, or another neurodivergent profile, this conversation offers practical strategies that build confidence, connection, and long-term success.

Key Takeaway

Your goal isn't to become your child's lifelong advocate.

Your goal is to raise a young adult who knows how to advocate for themselves.

That journey starts long before graduation.

Connect with Lisa

https://journey2bloom.com/

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

https://www.facebook.com/LisaLazarRicher

https://www.instagram.com/journey2bloom/

Connect with Cheryl

If you're navigating a new diagnosis, struggling with school supports, preparing for high school, interpreting psychoeducational assessments, or need guidance through the IEP process, I help parents become confident advocates—while helping teens develop the skills to advocate for themselves.

Visit CherylPankhurst.com to learn more about Educational Consulting and my 90-Day Family Advocacy Program. 

YOUR GIFT- GUIDE FOR GRADE 8 TO GRADE 9 IEP TRANSITIONS

https://www.cherylpankhurst.com/iep-high-school-transition-parent-quick-guide

Let’s Chat https://tidycal.com/cherylpankhurst/consultation-chat

Connect with Cheryl!

Get the book here!

Daring to Belong: Autism Stories of Courage and Connection

DIRECT LINK TO COACHING WITH CHERYL

 email : [email protected] 

Website  cherylpankhurst.com

SOCIALS:

My Substack

linkedin.com/in/l. R.cheryl-ann-pankhurst-1b611855

https://www.instagram.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst/                       https://www.facebook.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst

PODCAST- “PARENTING TEENS ADVICE REDEFINED FOR TODAY’S WORLD

THE PODCAST

https://open.spotify.com/show/4QwFMJMDDSEXJb451pCHO9?si=9c1a298387c84e13

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYv9FQy1X43wwoYg0zF8zAJw6-nCpHMAk&si=7p-e4UlU2rsG3j_t

Optin-podcast subscriber

Parenting Teens Advice Redefined

#ParentingTeens #TeenParenting #ExecutiveFunctioning #ADHDParenting #AutismParenting #Neurodivergent #ParentingPodcast

Are you exhausted from reminding your teenager...again?

If you constantly feel like the project manager of your teen's life—remembering assignments, appointments, laundry, medications, paperwork, and every little detail—this episode will completely change how you think about independence.

In this powerful conversation, Cheryl Pankhurst sits down with Lisa Woodruff, founder of Organize 365, to explore why organization isn't about tidy bedrooms—it's about teaching executive functioning, responsibility, confidence, and life skills that prepare teenagers for adulthood.

Together they unpack:

✔️ Why independence is taught—not magically developed

✔️ The invisible mental load parents carry

✔️ How executive functioning impacts responsibility

✔️ Why rescuing your teen may actually keep them stuck

✔️ A practical "Launch Binder" system every family should consider

✔️ Helping neurodivergent teens build independence at their own pace

✔️ Why parents need to build a life beyond parenting

If you're raising a teen with ADHD, autism, executive functioning challenges, or you're simply tired of carrying the entire household mental load, this episode will give you practical strategies and a completely new perspective.

You'll walk away feeling empowered—not guilty.

In This Episode

• Why organization is really an executive functioning skill
• The surprising reason teens don't become independent
• Teaching life skills without constant conflict
• The difference between supporting and rescuing
• Helping teens prepare for adulthood one step at a time
• Parenting neurodivergent teens with realistic expectations
• Creating systems that reduce stress for the whole family
• Why parents need their own identity after raising children

Connect with Lisa

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

http://instagram.com/organize365

YOUR GIFT- GUIDE FOR GRADE 8 TO GRADE 9 IEP TRANSITIONS

https://www.cherylpankhurst.com/iep-high-school-transition-parent-quick-guide

Let’s Chat https://tidycal.com/cherylpankhurst/consultation-chat

Connect with Cheryl!

Get the book here!

Daring to Belong: Autism Stories of Courage and Connection

DIRECT LINK TO COACHING WITH CHERYL

 email : [email protected] 

Website  cherylpankhurst.com

SOCIALS:

My Substack

linkedin.com/in/l. R.cheryl-ann-pankhurst-1b611855

https://www.instagram.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst/                       https://www.facebook.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst

PODCAST- “PARENTING TEENS ADVICE REDEFINED FOR TODAY’S WORLD

THE PODCAST

https://open.spotify.com/show/4QwFMJMDDSEXJb451pCHO9?si=9c1a298387c84e13

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYv9FQy1X43wwoYg0zF8zAJw6-nCpHMAk&si=7p-e4UlU2rsG3j_t

Optin-podcast subscriber

Parenting Teens Advice Redefined

Raising teenagers isn't about having all the answers.

It's about having the courage to grow alongside them.

In this deeply honest conversation, Cheryl Pankhurst sits down with fellow parenting podcast host Sonia Dong (Raising the Next Gen) for an unfiltered discussion about what they've learned—not just from interviewing parenting experts—but from becoming different parents themselves.

Together they explore:

✔ Why parenting teens always starts with the parent

✔ The surprising lessons podcasting has taught them

✔ Why so many parents feel disconnected from their teenagers

✔ The hidden impact of our own childhoods on how we parent

✔ How to stop parenting from fear and start parenting from your values

✔ Navigating technology, ChatGPT, social media and today's parenting challenges

✔ Why authenticity matters more than perfection

✔ The legacy every parent leaves behind

This isn't another conversation about fixing teenagers.

It's about becoming the parent your teen actually needs.

Whether your teen is struggling with school, mental health, friendships, independence, neurodiversity or simply growing up in today's complicated world, this episode will leave you feeling seen, encouraged and empowered.

Sonia Dong is a writer, podcaster, speaker, and mom of two exploring personal growth, mindfulness, and human connection. She brings over two decades of experience across youth education, nonprofit leadership, and values-driven entrepreneurship. As a certified Kind Voice of Impact Speaker™, she shares stories from her own journey of parenthood to inspire parents to slow down, show up, and lead with intention. She is the host of Raising the Next Gen, a podcast for parents of teens and tweens, and a co-author of the book Mama’s Gotta Grow. She is also a certified Leader in Me educator and works with the nonprofit Girl. Strong. to facilitate workshops for youth on topics such as body confidence, self-esteem, and Franklin Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.

Website: https://soniadong.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soniadong LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soniadong Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7mVS2AZdgwobeh0V2f6gPA

YOUR GIFT- GUIDE FOR GRADE 8 TO GRADE 9 IEP TRANSITIONS

https://www.cherylpankhurst.com/iep-high-school-transition-parent-quick-guide

Let’s Chat https://tidycal.com/cherylpankhurst/consultation-chat

Connect with Cheryl!

Get the book here!

Daring to Belong: Autism Stories of Courage and Connection

DIRECT LINK TO COACHING WITH CHERYL

 email : [email protected] 

Website  cherylpankhurst.com

SOCIALS:

linkedin.com/in/l. R.cheryl-ann-pankhurst-1b611855

https://www.instagram.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst/                       https://www.facebook.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst

PODCAST- “PARENTING TEENS ADVICE REDEFINED FOR TODAY’S WORLD

THE PODCAST

https://open.spotify.com/show/4QwFMJMDDSEXJb451pCHO9?si=9c1a298387c84e13

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYv9FQy1X43wwoYg0zF8zAJw6-nCpHMAk&si=7p-e4UlU2rsG3j_t

Optin-podcast subscriber

Parenting Teens Advice Redefined

Let’s Chat https://tidycal.com/cherylpankhurst/consultation-chat

Website  cherylpankhurst.com

Connect with Cheryl!

Get the book here!

Daring to Belong: Autism Stories of Courage and Connection

DIRECT LINK TO COACHING WITH CHERYL

 email : [email protected] 

Website  cherylpankhurst.com

SOCIALS:

linkedin.com/in/l. R.cheryl-ann-pankhurst-1b611855

https://www.instagram.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst/                       https://www.facebook.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst

PODCAST- “PARENTING TEENS ADVICE REDEFINED FOR TODAY’S WORLD

THE PODCAST

https://open.spotify.com/show/4QwFMJMDDSEXJb451pCHO9?si=9c1a298387c84e13

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYv9FQy1X43wwoYg0zF8zAJw6-nCpHMAk&si=7p-e4UlU2rsG3j_t

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Parenting Teens Advice Redefined

YOUR GIFT- GUIDE FOR GRADE 8 TO GRADE 9 IEP TRANSITIONS

https://www.cherylpankhurst.com/iep-high-school-transition-parent-quick-guide

Parents often tell me,

"I don't want to label my child."

I understand.

As a former Special Education Department Head and now an Educational Strategist and Family Advocate, I've heard this hundreds of times.

But here's what I've learned...

A diagnosis doesn't change who your teenager is.

It changes how we understand them.

In this honest Friday "WTF" episode, I explain why avoiding a psychoeducational assessment can unintentionally make life harder—not only for your teen, but for your entire family.

You'll learn:

✔️ Why a diagnosis is about understanding—not labeling

✔️ How assessments explain the behaviours you've been struggling with for years

✔️ Why your teen may already be creating their own (far more damaging) label if they don't understand their brain

✔️ Practical examples of how parenting changes when you understand executive functioning

✔️ Why schools often miss what your child actually needs

✔️ How understanding your teen creates less conflict and more connection at home

Most importantly...

A diagnosis doesn't define your child.

It gives them the language to understand themselves and the tools to advocate for what they need.

If you've ever wondered whether you should pursue an ADHD, Autism, or psychoeducational assessment, this episode is for you.

Resources

If you're navigating assessments, school meetings, accommodations, or simply wondering what your next step should be, book a complimentary consultation through Cheryl's website.

Share this episode with another parent who needs to hear that understanding is never the same as labeling.

Are straight A's really the key to your teenager's future?

What if everything we've been taught about raising successful kids is backwards?

In this powerful conversation, Cheryl Pankhurst sits down with bestselling author Margot Machol Bisnow to discuss what hundreds of highly successful entrepreneurs had in common growing up—and the answers may completely change how you parent your teen.

Instead of focusing on grades, prestigious universities, and "safe" careers, these parents raised children who became resilient, creative, confident, adaptable, and deeply fulfilled.

Whether your teen loves gaming, music, sports, art, YouTube, entrepreneurship, or something completely outside the traditional path, this episode will help you understand how to support their passions without sacrificing their future.

If you've ever wondered:

• Should I push my teen harder academically?

• What if my child isn't motivated by school?

• How do I help my teenager discover their passion?

• Is college the only path to success?

• Am I preparing my child for the real world—or just for school?

This episode is for you.

Inside this episode:

✔ Why straight A's are NOT the strongest predictor of future success

✔ The parenting habit shared by families who raise resilient kids

✔ Why failure is one of the greatest gifts you can give your teenager

✔ How helicopter parenting quietly destroys confidence

✔ The surprising truth about helping teens discover their passion

✔ Why your child doesn't need a "backup plan"

✔ How parents unknowingly send the message, "I don't believe in you"

✔ What today's teenagers actually need to thrive in an unpredictable world

Whether you're parenting a neurodivergent teen, a struggling student, an athlete, an artist, or a child who simply doesn't fit inside the traditional school box, this conversation will leave you thinking differently.

Because success isn't about raising children who follow someone else's path.

It's about raising teenagers who have the confidence to create their own.

About Today's Guest

Margot Machol Bisnow is the author of Raising an Entrepreneur, where she interviewed more than 70 highly successful entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds to discover what their parents did differently.

Her research reveals simple but powerful parenting principles that help children become confident, resilient, creative, and purpose-driven adults.

YOUR GIFT- GUIDE FOR GRADE 8 TO GRADE 9 IEP TRANSITIONS

https://www.cherylpankhurst.com/iep-high-school-transition-parent-quick-guide

Let’s Chat https://tidycal.com/cherylpankhurst/consultation-chat

Connect with Cheryl!

Get the book here!

Daring to Belong: Autism Stories of Courage and Connection

DIRECT LINK TO COACHING WITH CHERYL

 email : [email protected] 

Website  cherylpankhurst.com

SOCIALS:

linkedin.com/in/l. R.cheryl-ann-pankhurst-1b611855

https://www.instagram.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst/                       https://www.facebook.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst

PODCAST- “PARENTING TEENS ADVICE REDEFINED FOR TODAY’S WORLD

THE PODCAST

https://open.spotify.com/show/4QwFMJMDDSEXJb451pCHO9?si=9c1a298387c84e13

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYv9FQy1X43wwoYg0zF8zAJw6-nCpHMAk&si=7p-e4UlU2rsG3j_t

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Parenting Teens Advice Redefined

In this solo episode, Cheryl Pankhurst shares a personal story that challenges everything we’ve been taught about success, control, and “figuring it out.”

After months of trying to force outcomes in housing, life, and even identity, nothing was working the way it “should.” Despite doing everything right on paper, doors kept closing.

Then something shifted.

Instead of forcing the next step, she chose clarity over control—deciding what she wanted, how she wanted to feel, and allowing the process to unfold differently than expected.

What happened next was unexpected: ease, alignment, and a completely different path forward that required far less effort—and delivered far more than she could have planned.

This episode explores:

• Why over-planning and control often block what we want
• The emotional cost of trying to “force the how”
• What happens when you focus on feeling instead of fixing
• How clarity and openness can change outcomes in unexpected ways
• A real-life story of letting go and receiving with ease

This is a conversation about trust, alignment, and stepping out of the exhausting cycle of control—especially when life feels stuck or overcomplicated.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing everything “right” but nothing is moving… this one is for you.

🔥 Key Takeaway

You don’t need to figure out every step.

You need clarity on what you want—and the willingness to not control how it arrives.

📣 Call to Action

If this resonated, share it with someone who is overthinking their next step in life or business. And I’d love to hear your thoughts—agree, disagree, or somewhere in between.

#MindsetShift #LetGoAndTrust #LifeAlignment #ManifestationMindset #PersonalGrowthJourney #SelfLeadership #EmotionalWellness #InnerWork #WomenInTransformation #LifeCoaching #HealingJourney #IntentionalLiving #EnergyAlignment #ControlVsTrust #MindsetMatters #LifeTransitions #AuthenticLiving #GrowthMindset #SpiritualGrowth #PodcastForWomen #TeenParentingSupport #CherylPankhurstWellness #WTFPodcast.

YOUR GIFT- GUIDE FOR GRADE 8 TO GRADE 9 IEP TRANSITIONS

https://www.cherylpankhurst.com/iep-high-school-transition-parent-quick-guide

Let’s Chat https://tidycal.com/cherylpankhurst/consultation-chat

Connect with Cheryl!

Get the book here!

Daring to Belong: Autism Stories of Courage and Connection

DIRECT LINK TO COACHING WITH CHERYL

 email : [email protected] 

Website  cherylpankhurst.com

SOCIALS:

linkedin.com/in/l. R.cheryl-ann-pankhurst-1b611855

https://www.instagram.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst/                       https://www.facebook.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst

PODCAST- “PARENTING TEENS ADVICE REDEFINED FOR TODAY’S WORLD

THE PODCAST

https://open.spotify.com/show/4QwFMJMDDSEXJb451pCHO9?si=9c1a298387c84e13

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYv9FQy1X43wwoYg0zF8zAJw6-nCpHMAk&si=7p-e4UlU2rsG3j_t

Optin-podcast subscriber

Parenting Teens Advice Redefined