Navigating tough talks with your kids doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In this light-hearted, thoughtful conversation, I sit down with acclaimed poet and award-winning children’s author Richard Michelson to discuss how purposeful parenting can get a boost from children’s picture books as you tackle life’s most challenging topics. You may find yourself addressing sensitive subjects like loss, injustice, and racism.  You’ll want to resilience, empathy, and confidence as you prepare your to child to face challenging issues.  This episode offers valuable insights and practical strategies for raising children who feel supported and empowered.

Listen as Richard shares his journey from a childhood without books to becoming a celebrated author whose stories open the door to honest, age-appropriate conversations. Discover how his experiences growing up, paired with his passion for storytelling, have helped countless families navigate challenges and foster connection. You’ll also gain tips on using picture books as powerful tools to spark meaningful dialogue, build understanding, and inspire hope in children and adults alike.

Parenting is a journey of resilience, authenticity, and faith in creating a legacy for future generations. What resonated with you here?  How have your views changed about the picture books you select for your children.  Drop your comments below! 

We’d love to hear from you!

#difficulttopics #empathybuilding #parentingtips #buildingresilienceinchildren #children'sbooksdiscussion

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Introduction

01:10 - Tough Conversations with Kids

05:40 - Becoming a Children's Book Author

11:00 - Experiences Shaping Children's Writing

14:01 - Childhood Influences on Writing

18:08 - Kids Engaging with Your Books

23:10 - Empowerment Through Literature

25:24 - Lessons for Adults from Children's Books

28:20 - Elements of Children's Book Creation

31:00 - Meeting Obama: A Personal Story

37:17 - Sources of Hope in Writing

44:40 - Positive Conclusion and Takeaways

51:03 - Gratitude and Episode Sharing

52:02 – Closing

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How can you build a strong family foundation if you're losing you cool when times are tough? Tune in to my conversation with Roshanda Casteel as we share valuable insights and practical strategies for purposeful parenting and navigating challenges. Roshanda, an entrepreneur and advocate for families, opens up about her journey through the family court system and how resilience, faith, and understanding transformed her experiences into a mission to empower others. Together, we explore how anger management, parenting dynamics, and personal growth can shape healthier family relationships. You may be facing a family court order, or simply seeking strength and perspective. Either way, this episode offers actionable advice and inspiration to help you heal, grow, and thrive as a parent. Discover how purposeful parenting and clear communication can uplift your family and create lasting impact. Share one takeaway from our discussion today. We want to hear from you! Or, let us know how you’re already building a strong foundation in your family today! Your story matters, and we want to navigate the journey of parenting with you, in with grace and on purpose.

#angermanagement #childbehavior #ChildProtectiveServices #familysupport #familycourt #familydynamics #parentingtips #TheParenting411Podcast

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Introducing Roshanda Casteel

02:28 - Roshanda’s Personal Journey

07:40 - Misconceptions About CPS

12:18 - Managing Emotions During a CPS Case

15:31 - How Allegations Can Evolve in Family Court

19:05 - Recognizing the Root of Your Anger

21:09 - Identifying Anger Issues in Parents

25:18 - A Case That Made a Difference in Parenting

32:45 – Closing Thoughts

Check out our brand partners for this episode: Walgreen’s – Get ahead of cold and flu season by stocking up on tried and true remedies your children will need. No more stuffy noses and nagging coughs with Mucinex for Children’s Cough and Congestion. Just click this link to stock up now: https://bit.ly/3KXP9H6

Ulta – Moms can keep their skin refreshed with Phyto Nature Firming Serum by Dermalogica. Grab yours from Ulta with link: https://bit.ly/4nj6Ezd

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Navigating divorce as a dad isn’t just about surviving court dates and custody calendars—it’s about healing, self-discovery, and, yes, even finding moments to laugh. On this episode of Parenting 411, Dr. David Webb gets real about the messy grace of fatherhood after divorce. From the chaos of “week-on, week-off” parenting to overcoming anger and building joyful new traditions with his kids, Dr. Webb shares wisdom, humor, and that all-important message: love your kids more than you hate your ex. Tune in as David and I dig into why dads today are more involved than ever, why forgiveness is a game-changer, and how even the hardest seasons can give dads hope for an even brighter future—one filled with UNO games at 3 a.m., Christmas Eve pizza parties, and the freedom to start new chapters.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

02:07 - Turning Point as a Dad and Man

04:00 - Contentious Divorce Factors

05:24 - Consistency in Co-Parenting

12:09 - Faith-Based Counseling and Parenting

14:20 - Men's Anger During Divorce

19:14 - Staying Grounded During Divorce

22:00 - Accepting Negative Feelings Towards the Ex

24:00 - Looking Forward with Adult Children

26:00 - Experience Shaping Views on Love

29:00 - What Went Right in Difficult Situations

33:20 – Closing Thoughts

Check out our brand partners for this episode:

Ulta – Moms can keep their skin refreshed with Phyto Nature Firming Serum by Dermalogica. Grab yours from Ulta with link: https://bit.ly/4nj6Ezd

The Parenting 411 – Grab my mini motherhood memoir PLUS some amazing BONUSES at https://mothersworkthebook.com

#TheParenting411Podcast #DivorcedDads #CoParenting #Fatherhood #ParentingJourney #ParentingTips #DadLife #Parenthood #SingleDad #PositiveParenting #ParentingAdvice #DivorceRecovery #Family

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Parenting can feel overwhelming when the world outside seems chaotic. In this thought-provoking conversation, I share valuable insights and practical strategies to help you talk to your children about war, violence, and tough news stories in a way that fosters resilience, understanding, and hope. Learn how to approach these challenging topics with purposeful parenting, tailoring your message to your child's age, managing your own emotions, and creating a sense of safety and connection within your family.

Let’s build a foundation of truth, safety, and hope for our children while modeling faith, resilience, and authenticity. What do you think about the ideas I presented. Share your thoughts below.  You don’t need all the answers—you just need to show up. You're not alone in this journey. Let’s do this together!

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Talking to Kids About War and Violence

01:21 - Importance of Parental Guidance

06:14 - Managing Children's Fear

07:56 - Shifting Fear to Empathy

11:05 - Understanding Legal Considerations

Today’s featured brand partners are: 

Olly Vitamins – Get metabolism support with Olly Gummy Rings.  Use my link:  https://bit.ly/4qpScYU

AND

The Parenting 411 – Join a community where you are understood.  Visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/theparenting411community   

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Let’s Stay Connected:

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#parentingadvice #explainingwar #discussingwar #parentingtips #emotionalsafety #ParentingTips #KidsAndFear #ChildSafety #ToughConversations #MediaLiteracy

Why don’t kids listen, and more importantly, how can we fix it? In this episode, I share practical strategies and valuable insights to navigate one of parenting’s most common challenges. Drawing from personal experiences and research, this video dives deep into purposeful parenting, helping you build stronger, more cooperative relationships with your children.

Explore some essential elements of connection—emotional safety, clear communication, consistent boundaries, positive reinforcement, and intentional parenting—to transform how you relate to your kids. Learn how these strategies can create a foundation of trust, respect, and collaboration within your family.

Whether you're a working mom, stay-at-home parent, or somewhere in between, this episode offers the tools you need to raise confident, compassionate, and capable children. Parenting is a journey of growth for both you and your child. Let’s embrace the messy, yet sacred and rewarding, work of raising children with faith, purpose, and intention.

Share your thoughts below, and don’t forget to like and share this video with other parents navigating similar challenges. You’ve got this—and we’re here to support you every step of the way!

#communicationskills #personaldevelopment #activelistening #selfdevelopment #talktokids #listentokids #theparenting411podcast

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Why Kids Don't Listen

03:52 - Establishing Consistent Boundaries

06:04 - Effective Positive Reinforcement Techniques

07:06 - Intentional Parenting Practices

09:22 - Research-Backed Strategies for Better Listening

10:17 - Your Parenting Toolkit for Intentionality

12:12 - Final Thoughts on Parenting Strategies

13:51 - Closing

Today's episode is brought to you by The Parenting 411 featuring: My mini motherhood memoir, Mother's Work: Pearls of Wisdom & Gems from my journey Grab your FREE copy at https://www.mothersworkthebook.com

AND

ProPicks by The Parenting 411, our premier marketing and promotion program that puts you in front of the families YOU were called to serve.

Sign up at https://www.propicksbyp411.com

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Parenting can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to lead to burnout. In this crucial conversation, I’m sharing 5 easy and research-backed ways to prevent parental burnout and rediscover joy in your parenting journey. From practical strategies like “special time” with your child to embracing purposeful parenting by setting realistic expectations, this episode offers valuable insights, is you can navigate challenges and build resilience as a parent. We’ll uncover the signs of burnout, common triggers like perfectionism and lack of support, and how to reframe your mindset to create a sustainable, balanced family life.

You might be raising children as a single parent or juggling work and family. Or you might just be feeling drained. If any of these situations match your reality right now, these tips will help you prioritize self-care, strengthen your connection with your kids, and find peace amidst the chaos of parenting. Tune in for actionable advice, heartwarming encouragement, and a reminder that parenting is about presence, not perfection. Share your thoughts below. What strategies help you stay resilient in your parenting journey? Let’s navigate this together!

#stressrelief #mentalhealth #childbehaviormanagement #childpsychology #managingstressduringdisaster #theparenting411podcast

Today's episode is brought to by The Parenting 411 featuring my bestselling motherhood memoir, Mother's Work: Pearls of Wisdom & Gems from my journey https://www.mothersworkthebook.com

We're also featuring our brand partner, Highlights for Children. Don't miss the opportunity to start your child on the path to literacy with their I Can Read program https://bit.ly/45c1TRU

CHAPTERS:

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Let's stay connected: Website: http://www.theparenting411.com/

IG: http://www.instagram.com/the_parenting_411

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/theparenting411

YouTube: http://www.youttube.com/@TheParenting411 

Parenting teens doesn’t have to feel like a constant battle. In this stimulating conversation, I  uncover how to transform those challenging years into an opportunity for growth, connection, and resilience. Tune in for valuable insights and practical strategies for navigating the teen years with purpose and compassion.

From understanding the science behind the teenage brain to offering actionable tips on setting boundaries and fostering emotional connections, this episode equips you with tools to build stronger family relationships. You’ll hear my stories, including how I supported my own sons through tough decisions, and discover how shifting from control to connection can create lasting bonds. Whether you’re navigating challenges with your teen or looking to embrace purposeful parenting, this episode is packed with tips on raising children in today’s fast-paced world.

You don't want to miss our strategies on balancing technology, encouraging emotional growth, and preparing your teen for life’s big moments. Share your thoughts below—Did I miss anything?

Don’t forget to Like, Subscribe, and share this episode with others.  

#activelistening #selfdevelopment #emotionalintelligence #communication #parentchildcommunications #buildingbridges #parentingtips #theparenting411podcast

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Introduction

01:24 - Teen Years: Opportunities for Growth

07:47 - Parenting in the Digital Age: Tips for Online Success

13:18 - Final Thoughts on Parenting

Check out our Brand Partners for this week: Kohl's and Staples

Click links below to grab deals on school supplies to make sure your kids are have the tools they need to make this school year SUPER successful:

Kohl's: https://bit.ly/4obwiHG

Staples: https://www.staples.com/School-Supplies/cat_SC350235 

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Website: http://www.theparenting411.com/

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YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@TheParenting411 

Are you running on empty and longing to regain balance in your parenting journey? In this stimulating conversation on "Depleted Mother Syndrome: Signs & Solutions for Recovery," I unpack the exhaustion that so many mothers—and caregivers—face today. From recognizing physical and emotional burnout to understanding its root causes, this episode offers valuable insights and practical strategies for healing and thriving as a family.

Join me as we explore the signs of depleted mother syndrome, the societal pressures that intensify it, and the small yet powerful steps you can take to prioritize rest, reclaim joy, and nurture resilience. Whether it’s asking for help, simplifying your routine, or finding time to reconnect with yourself, these purposeful parenting strategies are designed to help you navigate challenges while raising children with authenticity and love.

Let’s break the silence around this all-too-common struggle and create a supportive community where parents feel empowered, not alone. Share your thoughts below—what resonates most with you? Tune in for empowering advice and actionable steps to bring peace, purpose, and strength back to your parenting journey. Your family deserves the best of you, and you deserve to feel whole again.

Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes filled with inspiration, faith, and practical parenting wisdom. Together, let’s build a legacy of love and resilience.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

00:40 - What is Depleted Mother Syndrome

04:30 - Triggers of Depleted Mother Syndrome

06:48 - Importance of Depleted Mother Syndrome

07:38 - 5 Tips for Recovery from Depleted Mother Syndrome

08:37 - Tip 1: Prioritize Rest for Recovery

09:02 - Tip 2: Accept Help and Support

09:53 - Tip 3: Reclaim Personal Time

10:42 - Tip 4: Simplify Your Life

11:20 - Tip 5: Seek Professional Support

12:24 - Recovery Strategies for Depleted Mother Syndrome

13:12 - Closing

Check out our Brand Partner for this week: Adidas

Click here to grab for a deal on footwear for school: https://bit.ly/3IFGYxP

#burnout #mentalhealth #motherhoodchallenges #mentalhealthmoms #self-careformoms #depletedmothersyndrome

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Discover how to untangle family communication and build stronger connections with this simple yet powerful tool! Today, I welcome Angela Myers, a nationally recognized speaker, family life educator, and parent coach. Together, we explore practical strategies to transform tangled communication into a beautiful tapestry of understanding, connection, and resilience. Angela shares her expertise on transactional analysis—a game-changing approach to navigating challenges in family communication.

Learn how to identify invisible patterns beneath everyday interactions and use purposeful parenting techniques to raise resilient, responsible, and happy children. Maybe you/'re struggling with misunderstandings or striving to create deeper bonds within your family. This episode is packed with insights and actionable advice to help you reach your goals.

Tune in to uncover how to approach conversations with intention and clarity, empowering you to nurture authentic relationships at home. Share your thoughts below—what strategies will you try first? Don’t miss this inspiring episode filled with practical wisdom for parents and families. Let’s keep connecting, learning, and parenting with heart! #communicationskills

#challengingbehaviors #setclearboundaries #calmparenting #communication

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Introduction

02:51 - Effective Communication Strategies

09:15 - Expert Recommendations by P411

11:10 - The Three Pillars of Communication

12:06 - Understanding Ego States

19:46 - Transactional Analysis: Complimentary vs Crossed

25:04 - Deliberate Communication Techniques

27:24 - The Power of Choice in Conversations

28:42 - Building Strong Relationships

33:00 - Adulthood: A Central Command for Life

34:42 - Identifying Your Current State

37:32 - Parenting Insights: Lessons Learned

41:51 - Future Plans for Angela

42:56 - Connecting with Angela Online

43:55 - Closing Thoughts

Check our brand partner for today: Staples, your one-stop shop for school supplies this year! Click here and start SAVING today: https://bit.ly/44DNcae

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Are you ready to raise kids who are confident with money 💰 and empowered to build a financially stable future? Join me as I sit down with money coach Kim Kent for a reflective conversation packed with valuable insights and practical strategies for purposeful parenting. 

Kim gets REAL about her journey of overcoming financial setbacks, healing emotional money trauma, and transforming her mindset to empower families to thrive. We discuss how childhood experiences shape financial beliefs, how parents can break the cycle of scarcity thinking, and steps families can take to instill resilience, confidence, and healthy money habits in their children.

This episode offers real-world examples, actionable tips, and heartfelt advice on navigating challenges like teaching kids the value of money, setting boundaries without guilt, and building a legacy of abundance. Tune in to discover how you can reframe your money mindset and help your children grow into financially savvy adults.

What strategies do you use to teach your kids about money? Share your thoughts below, and don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE this episode with friends and family who want to raise confident, empowered kids!

#personalfinanceforbeginners #financialeducation #howtosavemoney #moneymanagement #budgetingmadeeasy #budgeting #howtobudget #financialeducation #confidence #howtomanagemoney

CHAPTERS:

Check our brand partner for today:  Staples, your one-stop shop for school supplies this year!

Click here and start SAVING today:  https://bit.ly/44DNcae

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Website: http://www.theparenting411.com/