I used to think the college process was all about helping my teen succeed. But this past week, during a whirlwind of campus tours with one son and Parents Weekend with the other, I realized just how much my own mindset has shifted. This episode isn’t just about college visits—it’s about the emotional rollercoaster we ride as moms of teens and how our hopes, expectations, and anxiety can quietly morph into pressure, overthinking, and attempts to control.

I share candidly about how my own fears and guilt played out during my older son’s journey—and how they impacted our connection. And I reflect on how emotional regulation and letting go (the real kind) have changed everything about how I show up now. This isn’t about checking a box or getting into the “right” school. It’s about trusting your teen to define success on their own terms—and learning how to love and support them without losing yourself.

If you’ve ever found yourself awake at night worrying about your teen’s future, this one’s for you. Let’s talk about mindset, motherhood, and the gift of truly seeing our kids for who they are—right now.

Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0 

This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.