Have you ever wondered how to support neurodivergent children who struggle in a traditional school setting? Does the term "twice exceptional" leave you curious? This episode with Sam Young, founder of Young Scholar Academy and a dedicated advocate for neurodivergent education, is just what you need to learn more. Young, also a twice exceptional learner diagnosed with ADHD, contributes his invaluable experience and insights to our discussion about the unique challenges and immense potential of these exceptional learners.

We discuss recognizing and nurturing the distinct abilities and interests of twice exceptional students, without trying to shoehorn them into conventional norms.  We also challenge traditional beliefs about education and work, opening up fresh perspectives for parents and educators to better support neurodivergent children.

Our conversation takes a deeper look at education's role in non-traditional learners' lives, promoting the allowance for exploration of passions and interests. We underline the significance of mentors and peers who understand and support these students. Young shares his experiences from his educational programs, demonstrating the impact of a supportive, understanding environment for learning and growth. This is a must-listen conversation for any parent, educator, or individual interested in neurodivergent education!

Connect with Sam

Check out the Young Scholars Academy online, on Facebook, or on Instagram.

Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!

Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand Out

Like what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families.

Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.

Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!

Navigating the silent language of our teens' gestures and glances can be as complex as cracking an ancient code. That's where Kevin Baker, a life coach with a heartfelt dedication to the wellbeing of adolescents, steps in. Improve communication with your teens and preteens when you understand eye movements, posture, and the subtleties of body language. In this conversation, Kevin equips us with the tools to guide teens toward self-awareness and authentic happiness.

Kevin inspires us with strategies for active listening and exhibits how mirroring calmness in the face of adversity can teach teens valuable lessons in emotional regulation. We also delve into the diverse love languages that resonate with our kids, from affirmations to acts of service, and how these gestures can fortify the bonds we share.

Connect with Kevin

Find out about Kevin's work here, inquire about life coaching for teens and tweens here,  and connect with him on Instagram or Facebook.

Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!

Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand Out

Like what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families.

Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.

Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!

Imagine discovering that your child could have been stacking up scholarship offers since kindergarten, but you were none the wiser. That's the reality Denise Thomas, an expert in education finance, unpacks on our latest episode. Together, we dissect the long-held myths around college funding, revealing how early preparation and development of communication skills can set children on a path to funding their college careers.

Denise takes us through a treasure trove of scholarship strategies that extend beyond the conventional wisdom of waiting until high school. Did you know a doodle could start your kindergartener on the road to a scholarship? Or that passion in extracurricular activities could be just as pivotal as academic prowess in securing college funds? This conversation is a rallying cry for parents to get proactive. Tune in as we equip parents and students with the insights they need to navigate the financial maze of higher education and claim the gift of financial freedom.

Connect with Denise

Learn more about her philosophy at Get Ahead of the Class. Download the free Ebook, Are You Wasting the Middle School Years? And check out this free checklist for scholarship secrets! 

Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!

Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand Out

Like what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families.

Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.

Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!

Navigating older children’s sleep can often feel like steering a ship through a storm without a compass. That's where Maisie Ruttan, family sleep specialist, comes into play. With her profound expertise, Maisie guides weary parents through the intricate landscape of their children's sleep patterns. Our conversation journeys from her own transformation from nurse to sleep coach, inspired by twin-sized challenges, to debunking the prevalent myths surrounding children's sleep.

We chart out strategies for cultivating a tranquil bedtime ambience, addressing the disruptive influence of screen time on sleep, and the vital role of trusting your intuition as a parent. For families wading through the tides of sleep challenges, our talk provides a compass to guide you towards calmer waters.

Connect With Maisie
Visit Maisie's website here to get her free Peaceful Bedtimes Miniseries. You can also find her on Facebook, LinkedIn, Youtube and Instagram.

Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!

Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand Out

Like what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families.

Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.

Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!

We sit down with the remarkable Carla Shohet, a psychologist at the forefront of trauma and narcissistic abuse recovery, to discuss the pivotal shifts in healing practices that promise to reshape familial legacies. Taking a step beyond the bounds of conventional talk therapy, Carla uncovers the essence of trauma as a physical experience, emphasizing the urgency of recognizing stress levels and their unique personal thresholds. Their conversation illuminates the potential for creating nurturing environments for children, thereby severing the perpetuation of trauma through generations.

Delve into the complexities of trauma with us as we navigate the individualized journey of healing alongside Carla Shohet. She brings to light various somatic therapies that can rebalance our emotional equilibrium, using powerful analogies to help us comprehend the impact of unprocessed stress on our lives and parenting styles. This episode is an intimate exploration of the "invisible backpack" we all carry, filled with stress that can unconsciously shape our behaviors and diminish our capacity for joy.

Finally, we wrap up with a heartfelt discussion on the significance of self-awareness and the autonomic nervous system's powerful influence on our daily experiences. We learn the inherent value of self-care—not as a luxury, but as a necessity—in fostering a ventral vagal state of security, joy, and connection. Drawing from personal experiences and professional insights, Elizabeth and Carla guide us through the intricacies of our childhood coping mechanisms, highlighting the importance of updating our internal operating systems for a life filled with presence and authenticity.

Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!

Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand Out

Like what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families.

Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.

Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!

Curious about how a trip to Target sparked a movement in clean skincare? Join us as Kimberly Grustas, the innovative mind behind Good For You Girls, recounts her inspiring journey from creative director to a champion for young girls' skincare. Kimberly's quest began when personal challenges with her daughters' health revealed the harsh realities of chemical-laden products targeting tweens. Discover how her mission to eliminate these estrogenic chemicals is making an impact in the natural products industry, providing safe alternatives during a critical time in girls' development.

We tackle the often tricky conversations around puberty, emphasizing the necessity of approaching these talks with empathy and positivity. It's about recognizing the signs—both physical and emotional—and helping children understand these natural changes. By starting these discussions early, parents can set the stage for a healthy transition into adolescence, ensuring kids feel informed and confident about their bodies. We also share practical tips on maintaining good hygiene and establishing healthy habits that are crucial during this life stage.

Exploring the emotional landscape of parenting teenagers, we highlight the importance of creating a safe space for growth at home. We offer insights into introducing skincare routines that foster responsibility and maturity before moving on to makeup. By focusing on natural and gentle products, the benefits of a solid skincare foundation are evident, even reducing the perceived need for makeup. To top it all, we celebrate the bonding opportunities that arise from shared skincare routines between mothers and daughters, reinforcing relationships through mutual self-care.

Connect with Kimberly
Find out more at goodforyougirls.com, or check them out on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest.

Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!

Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand Out

Like what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families.

Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.

Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!

Ever wondered why setting boundaries and maintaining consistency can be such a game changer for parenting? Stephanie Hewitt, a seasoned postpartum parent educator and sleep coach, joins us to unpack this hot topic. She also shares nuggets from her personal experiences, setting boundaries with her four children.

Stephanie introduces us to the 'gradual retreat' method, a technique that can help children feel secure and in control. We discuss how boundaries extend beyond sleep, touching on behavior management and emotional wellness.

Stephanie leaves us with sound advice for parents struggling to set and hold boundaries, underscoring the importance of consistency, understanding, and setting realistic expectations for ourselves as parents.

Don't forget to check out Stephanie's website (you can even book a free discovery call with her!), Facebook page and Instagram for more parenting tips and advice. This is a genuinely enriching episode that you won't want to miss!

Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!

Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand Out

Like what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families.

Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.

Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!

Finding the right balance in a blended family can be an art form. Listen as we navigate the high seas of step parenting with our guest Maria Natapov, an expert in this very field. Sharing her personal experiences with divorce, remarriage, and the journey to becoming a step parent herself, Maria brings to the table a unique perspective and insightful strategies. Her innovative approach to coaching, combining trauma-informed parenting with the principles of core coaching and rapid resolution therapy, is illuminating. If you've ever wondered how to establish a strong, respectful and meaningful relationship with your stepchildren, this episode is for you.

Maria shares the importance of creating positive experiences, fostering an environment of authenticity, and practicing active listening. Learn effective techniques for step-parenting, from dealing with upset step-children, to early intervention, and setting a positive environment. As Maria reminds us, no one has to face these challenging waves alone. Tune in for a wealth of practical advice and insights on navigating the complex dynamics of blended families. Maria is here to guide us through it all.

Interested in working with Maria? Set up a free assessment call here, or reach her on Facebook. You can also take her Blended Family Dynamics Quiz to uncover your family's unique style.

Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!

Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand Out

Like what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families.

Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.

Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!

In our latest episode, we're joined by a real heavyweight in the field of college admissions - Thomas Caleel, a former directer of MBA admissions at the Wharton School and host of the Admittedly Podcast. Thomas offers a unique perspective on what schools are actually seeking from applicants: individuality, self-awareness, and passion. 

Ever wondered if a college degree is really necessary? We have, too. That's why we took a deep look into the world of career paths and education options. You might be surprised to learn that while a degree might not be crucial for some careers, for many others, it's a golden ticket to networking and career development opportunities. Trust us, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. 

But we didn't stop there. Homeschooling parents, we've got your back, too! Thomas generously shared his insights into how homeschooled students can navigate the college admissions process effectively. He also opened up about his own transition from entrepreneurship to admissions, reminding us of the importance of identifying and pursuing our passions. So, let's get ready to revolutionize the college admissions process together – because no matter the path, every child deserves to reach their full potential.

Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!

Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand Out

Like what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families.

Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.

Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!

Ever wondered how movement can prime the body for effective communication? Get ready for a treasure trove of insights, as we sit down with occupational therapist and homeschooling mom, Munira Adenwalla, who skillfully ties together the relationship between the vestibular system, responsible for movement, and the auditory system, crucial in communication. 

Discover how understanding these connections can help prepare your child for better communication, speech and writing!

In our conversation with Munira, we delve into the power of occupational therapy for children, particularly the benefits of movement-based activities. She enlightens us about how the vestibular system influences both brain hemispheres, and how engaging activities like obstacle courses, trampoline jumping, and other fun games can bolster communication skills in children. Munira also emphasizes the importance of embracing our kids' unique movement styles, and engaging in play activities with them to bolster their development.

Find Munira Adenwalla:  https://ot4kids.thinkific.com

'Helping Kids Write' FB Page

Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!

Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand Out

Like what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families.

Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.

Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!