Practical Intuition with Kay: Recent Episodes

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Thank you so much for all the love and care you have been sending my way after I shared of the discovery of a lump in my breast. I'll see the doctor soon, and I'll have more to share with you after that.

Between that and some quite a few other health concerns, I have realized that I've not been giving myself the rest that is a vital part of my own self-care.

So I am taking August off, and I'll see you in September!

I hope the coming month is wonderful for you, filled with rest and enjoyment and a positive outlook on the future.If you'd like to play along with the Days of Creation 2026 game, here is the post with the Game book and rules. It's free with no strings attached, so please check it out if you would like to play along.Lots of love coming your way from sunny Maine today <3

Kay

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

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What a great conversation I get to bring you today. Connect with Laurie in the Subtack app, at her website, and you can find her beautiful book, Flow Habit, here.I have received lots of messages of support after sharing about the lump I discovered in my breast… It's helping. Thank you so much. I'll let you know, when I know something.I shared last week that getting outside has been really helpful.

In the spirit of this conversation – recorded weeks ago – taking steps to be in the flow state has really helped too.I've been noticing how I feel before entering a flow state, and then how I feel during and after. Even if I've only been in this state for a few minutes, I feel more centered, more open to good possibilities, and simply in more of a neutral mindset, rather than a negative one.So it is with gratitude that I share this episode today.

Laurie rocks, and so do you, dear listener. And onward we go. <3 Kay

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Yup. Getting outside has meant like EVERYTHING to me as I sit with the potential outcomes, as well as navigate the healthcare system to receive the care that will help.

It’s funny how there are no coincidences – I am offering a workshop this coming Monday, in zoom, 6 PM Eastern time on 27 July – called “Let’s Go Outside.”

If you, like me, can use a little outside time, plus being in shared company and playing together, I’d love to see you there.

Here's the registration link.

If you're a Dreamers & Doers member, there's some savings for you to join the workshop; the link is in our community.

And here's the events page so y’all can see what events are coming up.

Thank you for being present with me right now.

It truly means more than I can say.

<3 <3 <3

Kay

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Today I’m speaking with Kristy Halvorsen, an explorer of life, a coddiwompler, and author of Perfect Unfolding.

Where is Kristy right now?

Kristy is living inside ‘Coddi’, her Airstream parked near Bradford, New Hampshire; her summer home.

Coddi comes from coddiwomple, a word that ‘found her’, which means to travel with no destination in mind. Over time she has redefined it as travelling purposely toward unknown destinations, being open to limitless possibilities, and unpredicting the future. Coddi is no longer about the travel, but about living in a space of complete openness.

How did Kristy get here?

Before the seven‑year journey detailed in her book, Kristy was already an explorer. Her dream was to retire from the fire department and travel full‑time in an RV, but after chemical exposure at work, a long recovery, and an ACL injury, she realised she didn’t want to wait for retirement and, in her mid‑30s, she decided to leave the fire department.

The first 12–18 months were hard and lonely. She didn’t yet know what she liked, but knew what she didn’t like, and the ‘tickles of her soul’ told her to keep rolling and see what happens. She left concrete jungles for forests, went off‑grid, and hired a coach, Michael, who helped her broaden her horizons. Slowly she began to fall in love with the life she was creating.

In early 2019 she had her ‘pooof’ moment … a profound shift in how she saw life. Since then, she has never once wished for an apartment or a different life.

Support Kristy has received

Kristy references a line in her book which goes something like ‘everyone I’ve ever met and ever will meet alters the hem and fit of my soul’. She believes the openness and curiosity of every person she meets create the conditions for meaningful connection. Many people have changed her life and she knows she has changed others – sometimes without names ever being exchanged.

We discuss how fear, intuition and role modelling shape our choices. I love where this portion of our conversation took us, highlighting how deeply mutual and subtle the influence of our role models can be.

Roles, expectations and fears

People often ask how she is not afraid. Kristy says there is no real answer, she simply isn’t. Fear only appears when she forgets who she truly is. Even physical danger doesn’t shake her sense that life, and even death, is okay.

She believes imagination is a gift – and using it to imagine worst‑case scenarios is a misuse of that gift. She sees intuition as something we’re all born with but taught to ignore. Children live this naturally; adults can return to it.

What’s coming up?

Kristy believes that ‘it’, whatever people long for, might not require changing their life at all. It might simply be seeing the same life through a different lens.

People often fear that following those soul-tickles will lead to chaos, but Kristy has found the opposite. Intuition takes the whole universe into account. She has met many ‘home‑free’ people who understand her way of living deeply.

She wishes she’d had had a role model like this when she was young. Adults who follow their soul’s nudges become powerful role models for their children. If fear is the only thing in the way, imagine what becomes possible when it softens.

Thanks for joining us!

Nuts and Bolts

• Come and play! I share fun ways to do that on my website events page, https://www.kaylockkolp.com/events/

• Speaking of fun ways to play, here is July’s workshop signup link, called Let’s Go Outside – Channeling What Your Soul Most Wants to Create. You can find out more about it here.

• For just about a year now I’ve been leading an online community for leaders who are learning to give ourselves the same love and care that we are so accustomed to giving to others. We’d love to have you join us, if that resonates: https://www.skool.com/dreamers-and-doers-8465/about

Cheers and lots of love from me <3

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Today we discuss mechanisms for choosing our mindset, especially during challenging times.

In this episode I introduce a question that’s been really helpful for me: “What would help me return to center after witnessing all of this?”

This question helps me recognize when I’m trying to control circumstances beyond what I can actually control, and bring my focus instead to centering practices, like drawing, breathing, or enjoying small pleasures.

We discuss identity, too. My example is of overcoming a 30-year identity issue related to being told I wasn’t an artist, and leading to something exciting! My upcoming solo art exhibition in October.

Let’s remember that we get to choose… And part of that is about not letting others’ opinions change our sense of self.

Nuts and Bolts

• Read about – and play along at – the Days of Creation 2026 game (that this episode is about) by clicking here.

• Here is my conversation from a few weeks ago with pleasure activist and violist Meena Bhasin.

• Here is July’s workshop signup link, called Let's Go Outside – Channeling What Your Soul Most Wants to Create. You can find out more about it here.

• For just about a year now I've been leading an online community for leaders who are learning to give ourselves the same love and care that we are so accustomed to giving to others. We'd love to have you join us, if that resonates: https://www.skool.com/dreamers-and-doers-8465/about

Cheers and lots of love from me <3

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Today I am here with Kathryn Nicolai, creator of the wonderful sleep podcast Nothing Much Happens, the amazing mindfulness podcast First This, and the lively and delightful podcast Stories from the Village of Nothing Much. Kathryn'new book, On the Street Where You Live, comes out next month, in July 2026. Here is her Instagram, a great place to see what’s going on with Kathryn and her creations!

Kathryn is intentionally cultivating joy. She began drawing earlier this year, despite having aphantasia (lack of visual imagery – no sound, colours, shapes or forms) and is loving the playful creativity. She’s taking online courses and filling her walls with new designs.

In our conversation today, Kathryn reflects on letting go of perfectionism and claiming the identity of ‘writer’ simply because she chooses to.

How she got here

Kathryn once believed she wasn’t creative, surrounded by artistic friends and family. Over time she learned creativity is a practice. She’s now 400+ episodes into Nothing Much Happens, on her second book and running three podcasts.

Growing up in Flint, Michigan, she told herself bedtime stories from the age of four. After 20 years teaching yoga/meditation, storytelling was a more accessible way to help people rest and regulate.

Kathryn has known sound designer Bob Wittersheim for some time and when she started working with him on Nothing Much Happens, he worked for free. Kathryn describes his compassionate and protective energy and credits him with grounding her.

Characters and perspectives

Kathryn realised early on that all her stories lived in the same universe. Writing in first person helps listeners to ‘pull the story around them’ and she includes a broad range of representative characters. Her upcoming book expands this catalogue of characters. She is now experimenting with a more eagle‑eyed view of the village while keeping her intuitive, centered style. She wants to stay inspired and genuine.

Inclusivity

As a queer woman, Kathryn values creating spaces where everyone feels safe. We discuss the joy of stories where characters live freely and fully.

Anorexia and Orthorexia

Kathryn speaks openly about her eating disorders, now seven years into recovery. She reflects on the years lost and the creativity gained since healing; she wants to model recovery.

Recovery and identity

Here is a lovely moment in our conversation – I share how First This supported me during a period of reclaiming my name and intuition. Kathryn emphasises that creators often help people they’ll never meet. She quotes the Regina Spektor song ‘Better’, with the line ‘If you never say your name out loud to anyone they can never ever call you by it’.

Kathryn describes bodily awareness, connection, her dog beside her, and the joy of this conversation as what feels present for her in this moment.

I’m filled with gratitude, to have had this conversation and to be able to bring it to you.

Invitations to Play with Kay

• I’m offering online workshops throughout 2026, and an in-person retreat here in Maine in September - see more at https://kaylockkolp.com/events

• If community is something you value, consider joining Dreamers & Doers. Here is where you can check it out: https://www.skool.com/dreamers-and-doers-8465/about

• Connect with me to talk about coaching or facilitation

• Or, apply to work 1-1 with me (currently waitlisted)

Cheers and lots of love to you today!

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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A reflective one today. I am getting to be a facilitator at the Rebels for Peace Summer Internship Program, and in this episode I give you a little bit of what I'll be bringing to them.

Questions for reflection:

1. What do I like, what do I enjoy doing?

2. What's an example of a time that I showed courage, even just a tiny amount?

3. How is this thing that sucks, a gift?

I'd love to hear – drop me a line at my contact page! You'll see a message there that says: “There are no strangers. Only friends not yet met.”

Invitations to Play with Kay

• I’m offering online workshops throughout 2026, and an in-person retreat here in Maine in September - see more at https://kaylockkolp.com/events

• come join a lovely community! It's called Dreamers & Doers. Here is where you can check it out: https://www.skool.com/dreamers-and-doers-8465/about

• Connect with me to talk about coaching or facilitation

• Or, apply to work 1-1 with me (currently waitlisted)

Cheers and much love, Kay

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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I'm excited to bring you today's deep, beautiful, very warm and loving conversation.

Today's guest,Mheena Bhasin, is a violist, mother of two and Pleasure Activist living in Noe Valley, San Francisco. Her work centers the arts as a vital part of civic life and community wellbeing.

Mheena feels deep gratitude for her life, her family and her community. She has co-created a concert series with her husband, that brings world-class artists into neighbourhood spaces and sees music as a vehicle for community care and connection.

Programming includes concerts for neurodivergent youth, lunchtime town-square performances, and wellbeing concerts.

Pleasure activism is integrated into her work, especially with women, through music, movement, meditation and love as a source of energy.

How she got here

Mheena began her training in music at the age of four. Her early classical training was intense and rule-bound. Music was always her way of feeling deeply and now she teaches others to access that same inner wellspring.

About ten years ago music had become a source of anxiety and pressure and Mheena experienced burnout. Moving from New York to San Francisco gave her a clean slate to rebuild her relationship with music. She learned to pause, reset and choose what to return to. Pregnancy and early motherhood planted the seeds for her current work.

How did pleasure activism come into her life?

Mheena was inspired by adrienne maree brown’s book Pleasure Activism and Audre Lorde’s essay Uses of the Erotic, which helped her understand that pleasure is a birthright, not a hierarchy or commodity.

Pleasure is not escapism, but feeling safe, beautiful and fully alive. Society often misinterprets pleasure as indulgence or hypersexuality, when it can be as simple as sensory presence and love.

Mheena doesn’t label herself an activist but sees activism as putting a stake in the ground, naming your values, being willing to be seen and going first so others feel permitted to follow.

At the time of our recording, Mheena was on day 11 of a gratitude practice. She encourages building a toolbox of small, accessible ways to return to love and aliveness to yourself.

On her website, www.Mheenabhasin.com, she offers a free pleasure meditation and a 75-minute meditation practice for those who’d like to go deeper.

Mheena welcomes conversations with anyone exploring pleasure in their life.

Hope you enjoy this one!

Invitations to Play with Kay

• I’m offering online workshops throughout 2026, and an in-person retreat here in Maine in September - see more at https://kaylockkolp.com/events

• If community is something you value, consider joining Dreamers & Doers. Here is where you can check it out: https://www.skool.com/dreamers-and-doers-8465/about

• Connect with me to talk about coaching or facilitation

• Or, apply to work 1-1 with me (currently waitlisted)

Cheers and lots of love to you today <3

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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I’ve been on retreat, and I learned lots.. sharing with you today.

Here’s what the Zoom Summary had to say about today’s episode, I think it’s pretty spot-on.

Kay shared her experience taking a week-long digital detox, disconnecting from the internet entirely to immerse herself in a retreat-like experience reminiscent of 1987. During this time, she discovered how frequently she relied on the internet for information and how many automatic digital habits she had developed.

Kay discussed specific examples of how she adapted, including visiting an art museum to learn about framing principles from a curator, exploring a local bookstore, and continuing work on her memoir by writing in a physical notebook rather than on a computer.

She reflected on the benefits of reduced digital distractio for herself, including increased focus for creative work and a return to more intentional human connection.

Kay emphasized the importance of taking brave steps toward living in ways that feel authentic, noting that people don't want us to break ourselves in service to them and that doing what's best for ourselves in integrity is ultimately beneficial for everyone involved.

I am wishing you well - see you next time!

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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May has been a wild ride! I take you into it today.

Also, THERE ARE SOME SWEARS.. fyi :)

Nuts and Bolts

• Read about – and play along at – the Days of Creation 2026 game (that this episode is about) by clicking here.

• Here is June’s workshop signup link, and you can find out more about it here

• I’m offering online workshops throughout 2026, and an in-person retreat here in Maine in September - see more at https://kaylockkolp.com/events

• If community is something you value, consider joining Dreamers & Doers. Here is where you can check it out: https://www.skool.com/dreamers-and-doers-8465/about

Cheers and lots of love from me <3

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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I am soooo excited to bring you this conversation, a Roundtable with the Rebels for Peace leaders!

Here’s how Zoom summarized the conversation…

In this Roundtable, Rebels for Peace Prince Jimmar, Logan Griggs-Mitchell, Devlin Chestang and Melina Navarette explored the concept of peace and its impact on their personal and professional lives, sharing their experiences before and after joining the organization.

The team discussed the importance of being rebels for the right reasons and how their work with youth in Chicago has transformed their own lives and perspectives.

They also shared their visions for expanding Rebels for Peace nationwide and worldwide, emphasizing the need for social-emotional learning and creativity in education.

The conversation highlighted the team's commitment to empowering youth and creating positive change in their community.

Nuts & Bolts

Find Rebels for Peace in Instagram by clicking here, and in Facebook by clicking here.

Hear more deeply from each Rebel: Here you can find each of our individual conversations, Melina Navarette’s here, Devlin Chestang’s here, Prince Jimmar’s here, and Logan Griggs-Mitchell’s here.

Thank you for being here!

Invitations to Play

• I’m offering online workshops throughout 2026, and an in-person retreat here in Maine in September - see more at https://kaylockkolp.com/events

• If community is something you value, consider joining Dreamers & Doers. Here is where you can check it out: https://www.skool.com/dreamers-and-doers-8465/about

• Connect with me to talk about coaching or facilitation

• Or, apply to work 1-1 with me (currently waitlisted)

Cheers and lots of love to you today!

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Today I’m speaking with Melina Navarrete, Lead Facilitator, Lead Bilingual Facilitator, and Lead Trainer for Rebels for Peace. I am SO excited to share this one with you!

Here is how Zoom summarized our conversation, I think it did a pretty good job..

Melina shared her personal mental health journey, including struggles with depression and anxiety during high school, hospitalizations, and how she found healing and purpose through her work with Rebels for Peace after completing an internship there.

She discussed how the organization helped her feel supported and valued, leading to a permanent role where she now helps train new interns and facilitate programs for youth.

The conversation explored themes of self-care, family dynamics around mental health, and the importance of letting others grow independently rather than trying to solve all their problems.

They also discussed the metaphor of carrying "security items" for dreams and aspirations, with Melina sharing her vision list of 400 goals and her Bible as key items she keeps with her.

Nuts & Bolts

Find Melina in LinkedIn by clicking here.

Find Rebels for Peace in Instagram by clicking here, and in Facebook by clicking here.

Next up: Our Rebels for Peace Roundtable! Get pumped with each of our individual conversations, Melina’s here in this space, Devlin Chestang’s here, Prince Jimmar’s here, and Logan Griggs-Mitchell’s here.

Thank you for being here <3

Invitations to Play

• I’m offering online workshops throughout 2026, and an in-person retreat here in Maine in September - see more at https://kaylockkolp.com/events

• If community is something you value, consider joining Dreamers & Doers. Here is where you can check it out: https://www.skool.com/dreamers-and-doers-8465/about

• Connect with me to talk about coaching or facilitation

• Or, apply to work 1-1 with me (currently waitlisted)

Cheers and lots of love to you today!

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Get ready for a quickie meditation today! I take you to your very own beautiful deserted island, and we spend the majority of this episode exploring there.

If you'd like to explore some more, you are cordially invited to this Monday's workshop, That Time You Found Yourself on a Deserted Island:

In a lovely spot on the island you’re hanging out on, you find a letter that the Universe wrote to you.

What does it say?

Come find out.

60 minutes; Monday, May 18, 2026, 6 PM Eastern; via Zoom, link sent prior to the workshop. $34, or $21 for Dreamers & Doers members.

Find out more/register: https://kaylockkolp.com/events

Hope to see you there!

Cheers and much love, Kay

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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As we go through this magical series of conversations with the leaders of the Rebels for Peace, I just keep feeling more and more inspired… Hope you enjoy this one!

Here’s the Zoom summary…

In this heartfelt conversation, Kay interviewed Devlin Chestang, the Lead Youth Facilitator at Rebels for Peace, about his personal journey and his work with young people in Chicago.

Devlin shared his challenging upbringing, including growing up in a single-parent household and dealing with undiagnosed ADHD, which led to him being labeled as a "bad kid" in school.

He described how a close friend's death in 2021 inspired him to pursue his creative passions, leading to a career in multimedia and eventually to his current role at Rebels for Peace.

Devlin discussed his approach to teaching and mentoring young people, emphasizing the importance of creating safe spaces for them to express themselves and overcome the stigmas they face.

He also shared his personal philosophy of "knowing myself, trusting my intuition, and taking accountability," which he uses to navigate his busy life balancing his work at Rebels with his own creative projects.

The conversation concluded with Devlin offering insights on how society can better support young people, including reducing assumptions, combating consumerism, and breaking down labels that separate individuals.

Nuts & Bolts

Find Devlin in LinkedIn by clicking here.

Find Rebels for Peace in Instagram by clicking here, and in Facebook by clicking here.

Next up: Rebels for Peace Lead Trainer, Lead Facilitator, and Lead Bilingual Facilitator Melina Navarette.

Thank you for being here <3

Invitations to Play

• I’m offering online workshops throughout 2026, and an in-person retreat here in Maine in September - see more at https://kaylockkolp.com/events

• If community is something you value, consider joining Dreamers & Doers. Here is where you can check it out: https://www.skool.com/dreamers-and-doers-8465/about

• Connect with me to talk about coaching or facilitation

• Or, apply to work 1-1 with me (currently waitlisted)

Cheers and lots of love to you today!

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Hello lovely, I challenged myself to a short and sweet episode that shares what feels true for me in this moment. I hope it finds you well <3

• May’s Hug Yourself excerpt is coming for supporters. This month it’s about one of the most important self care practices I use. Can’t wait to share!

• I’m offering online workshops throughout 2026, and an in-person retreat here in Maine in September - see more at https://kaylockkolp.com/events

• If community is something you value, consider joining Dreamers & Doers. Here is where you can check it out: https://www.skool.com/dreamers-and-doers-8465/about

Cheers and lots of love from me!

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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WHAT a conversation we get to experience today! Rebels for Peace Co-Founder and Executive Director Prince Jimmar joins me to share deeply about his own journey, and how connected his journey is with the beautiful organization he now leads.

Growing up, Prince felt cast into roles that were the opposite of how he knew himself to be. Hearing him share about breaking free of those roles, it becomes clear how inevitable Rebels for Peace was. How inevitable that Prince found a way to serve and support from his full and open heart.

Over the coming weeks we’ll get to spend time with several of Prince’s Rebels for Peace team (we heard last time from Program Coordinator and Lead Facilitator Logan Griggs-Mitchell), and we will wind up the series with a Roundtable. What fun!

Hope you enjoy this wonderful conversation about choosing with awareness the roles that we inhabit. Choosing to love ourselves and then seeing what gets created from there… and taking a deep dive into the magnificent co-creation today's guest has co-founded and grown.

Nuts & Bolts

Find Prince in Instagram by clicking here, and in Facebook by clicking here.

Find Rebels for Peace in Instagram by clicking here, and in Facebook by clicking here.

Next up: Rebels for Peace Youth Leader and Facilitator Devlin Chestang.

Thank you for being here!

Invitations to Play

I am offering a series of workshops throughout 2026! They are designed to help you feel aligned and alive.

Learn more and register at my events page.

Come to the retreat that I’m hosting in September

Or, hear more about it

Come be in company with some like-minded souls in the Dreamers and Doers Online Community

Connect with me to talk about coaching or facilitation

Or, apply to work 1-1 with me

Cheers!

Love, Kay

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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I'm so excited to bring you this conversation with Logan Griggs-Mitchell, Lead Facilitator and Program Coordinator of Rebels for Peace, a youth-led nonprofit on Chicago's South Side. The Rebels for Peace support kids to "let their environment be a product of them,” rather than feeling like they're stuck being a product of their environment.

Over the coming weeks we'll get to spend time with several of Logan's colleagues in Rebels for Peace, and we will wind up the series with a Roundtable conversation.

Today, settle in for a wonderful conversation about fostering resiliency beginning at very young ages; the simple and joyful ways that Rebels for Peace brings in the money that fuels their programs; and what it really looks like to build trust with kids who so often get discounted or pushed away.

Thank you for being here!

Nuts & Bolts

Find Logan in LinkedIn by clicking here.

Learn more about Rebels for Peace by clicking here.

Next up: Rebels for Peace Co-Founder and Executive Director Prince Jimmar.

Invitations to Play with Coach Kay

Learn more and register at my events page.

Come to the retreat that I’m hosting in September

Or, hear more about it

Come be in company with some like-minded souls in the Dreamers and Doers Online Community

Connect with me to talk about coaching or facilitation

Or, apply to work 1-1 with me

Cheers!

Love, Kay

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Once I began reflecting on the verbs that got me into trouble as a kid, I got curious about two things:

First, how might these verbs show me myself as I am now?

And second, what are your verbs?

Zoom Summary:

In this episode of Art, Creativity, and Wellbeing, Kay Lock Kolp discussed the concept of identifying and examining "verbs" as a way to understand behavior, curiosity, and interests. Drawing from her experience as an early childhood educator and personal reflections on her health journey, Kay explained how focusing on verbs can help people reconnect with activities that bring joy and well-being. She shared how certain behaviors that were once seen as problematic, such as talking excessively or creating art, can be reclaimed as positive aspects of life. Kay announced a series of upcoming workshops focused on various themes including favorite verbs, creativity, and well-being, with the first workshop "A Few of Your Favorite Verbs" scheduled for April 27th.

Invitations

Upcoming workshop: A Few of Your Favorite Verbs

Learn more and register at my events page.

Come to the retreat that I’m hosting in September

Or, hear more about it

Come be in company with some like-minded souls

Connect with me to talk about coaching or facilitation

Or, apply to work 1-1 with me

Thank you for being here with me. Cheers!

Love, Kay

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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What an interesting podcasting experiment, to return to the same subject matter once each month and see what shows up.

March was a wild ride, in the way that whitewater rafting is. See below for links that come up today, and the invitations I'm offering now.

Also, click here - my homepage in Substack - for the portrait I painted of Jesse, at the Butterhorn Bakery in Frisco, Colorado, last week. You'll find it at Episode 474, it's called The Fluffy Seedheads of Potential, Days of Creation 2026, Part 3/12.

Thank you for being here with me. I’m glad to be here with you.

Love, Kay

Nuts & Bolts

Days of Creation 2026: Read about – and play along at – the Days of Creation 2026 game (that this episode is about) by clicking here.

View Art Creativity & Wellbeing in YouTube here, find it in your favorite podcast app, or subscribe below so it shows up right into your inbox.

Invitations

Come to the retreat that I’m hosting in September

Or, hear more about it

Come be in company with some like-minded souls

Connect with me to talk about coaching or facilitation

Or, apply to work 1-1 with me

Cheers!

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3 A’s Framework for Aliveness

Kay discussed the final portion of a series on aliveness, focusing on the “3 A’s” framework which includes awareness, acceptance, and agency. She explained how agency represents growth that continues beyond these stages, creating a spiral of ongoing development and self-understanding. Kay mentioned that the podcast, which has over 470 episodes, is approaching its 11th birthday in May and is available on the Substack platform.

Agency and Feeling Alive

Kay discussed the concept of agency and its relationship to feeling alive, explaining how the words “disconnected,” “exhausted,” and “fearful” represent states before having awareness, acceptance, and agency respectively. She outlined the three components of agency as courage, choice, and creativity, using examples like a woodpecker’s creative problem-solving and the idea that people always make their best choice at any moment. Kay encouraged listeners to reflect on times when they demonstrated courage, made choices, or acted creatively, emphasizing that these actions are fundamental to experiencing agency and feeling alive.

Agency and Control Diagram Discussion

Kay discussed the opposite side of a diagram representing missing agency, focusing on feelings of overwhelm, paralysis, and suffering that arise when individuals don’t feel in control. She encouraged participants to reflect on when they feel most agency and invited them to use the chart as a tool for self-reflection when facing challenges. Kay shared a personal example of how the diagram helped her during a morning walk, demonstrating how it can provide clarity and guidance in navigating difficult situations.

Dynamic Aliveness and Money Perspectives

Kay discussed the dynamic nature of aliveness and shared insights from the book “Love Money, Money Loves You,” which describes money as beings that observe and facilitate human requests. Kay noted how people often panic when positive changes begin to happen, thinking they cannot handle the new experiences, but emphasized that they actually can manage these changes. The discussion concluded with an invitation for the audience to use the series for personal growth and experiencing life.

Workshop and Community Announcements

Kay announced plans to offer a workshop on the “3 A’s to feel alive” later in spring or summer 2026. She invited listeners to join her Dreamers and Doers community and mentioned that while her one-to-one coaching practice is currently full, interested parties can join a waiting list by responding to a series of questions. Kay also announced an upcoming series featuring interviews with the leadership of Rebels for Peace, a youth-led initiative in Chicago.

Invitations from Me

Come to the retreat that I’m hosting in September

Or, hear more about it

Come be in company with some like-minded souls

Connect with me to talk about coaching or facilitation

Enjoy some love from the pines

Love, Kay

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

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In Part 3 of our series on feeling Alive, we explore the second of the three A's: Acceptance.

Hope you enjoy this one!

Zoom Summary:

The Three A’s to Feeling Alive

Kay discussed the second installment of a series focusing on the three A’s to feel alive, following awareness with acceptance. Kay emphasized the importance of personalization in learning, encouraging participants to engage with the content in a way that works best for them rather than adhering to a strict structure. Kay then transitioned to discussing the concept of awareness, inviting participants to reflect on its meaning for themselves.

Venn Diagram of Aliveness Concepts

Kay discussed a Venn diagram about aliveness, explaining that movement through the diagram starts with awareness and then moves to acceptance. She noted that the word “disconnected” was near the awareness circle and “exhausted” was near the acceptance circle, suggesting a connection between being disconnected and lack of awareness, and between exhaustion and acceptance.

Radical Acceptance Concepts Discussion

Kay discussed the concept of radical acceptance, explaining how it involves allowing circumstances to be as they are rather than trying to control them. She outlined three qualities of acceptance: “own business minding” (practicing appropriate involvement in others’ lives), curiosity, and trust.

Own Business Minding Concept Discussion

Kay discussed the concept of “own business minding,” which involves understanding and accepting one’s own truth while letting go of control over others’ actions. She emphasized the importance of acceptance over judgment, referencing Walt Whitman’s idea that curiosity is better than judgment. Kay encouraged participants to reflect on their own experiences related to these concepts and invited them to share their thoughts via email.

Components of Acceptance Discussion

Kay discussed the components of acceptance, which include curiosity about someone’s experience, open-mindedness, and trust. Kay emphasized that trusting can be challenging due to fears of betrayal or misplacement of trust, but emphasized that acceptance involves embracing reality as it is rather than wishing it to be different.

Acceptance and Aliveness Concepts

Kay discussed the concept of acceptance as part of a series on aliveness and agency. She encouraged listeners to reflect on how acceptance applies to their own lives and suggested exploring this topic with friends, therapists, or coaches. Kay also introduced a diagram showing the opposites of feelings that help us feel alive, including suspicion, anxiety, and over-control, which can help identify the need for acceptance.

Invitations from me

Come to the retreat that I'm hosting in September

Or, hear more about it

Come be in company with some like-minded souls

Connect with me to talk about coaching or facilitation

Thank you for being here with me

Love, Kay

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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A quick announcement!!

See more here: https://kaylockkolp.com/events

Summary (via Zoom :)

Maine Camp Retreat Invitation

Kay announced an invitation to join a main camp retreat in September, describing it as a combination of camp and retreat experience designed to help people connect with friends and find restoration.

She shared personal experiences about how camp had positively impacted her life during challenging times in high school, and explained that she has incorporated elements from both her camper and counselor perspectives in creating this retreat.

The retreat will take place from September 19-23, lasting 5 nights and 6 days, with a maximum of 9 participants and multiple lodging and pricing options available.

Kay expressed her enthusiasm for creating a flexible retreat experience that could range from restful activities to more engaging activities depending on participants’ preferences.

Sheepscot Pond Retreat Plans

Kay discussed an upcoming retreat at a beautiful space on Sheepscot Pond in Palermo, Maine, describing it as bright, lively, and peaceful with great views and Adirondack chairs.

She shared her personal connection to the location, having kayaked by it previously in 2023 and been inspired to paint the chairs.

Kay expressed her excitement about hosting a retreat at this venue.

Kay announced an upcoming camp retreat scheduled for September, coinciding with the fall equinox.

She invited listeners to visit https://kaylockkolp.com/events to learn more and expressed excitement about creating the experience together, including potential excursions and activities like a local chef cooking class.

Kay mentioned she would see attendees next week for another podcast episode and look forward to meeting them at the camp in September.

xoxo, Kay

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Today, we’re focusing in on one of the 3 A’s that are helpful in feeling alive, Awareness. Hope you enjoy this one!

Find the diagram here if for example you are in your favorite podcast app, and it doesn’t support images.

Thanks for being here. See you for part three next week!

Kay

Nuts & Bolts

In-Person Retreat! Stay tuned for more info on the epic Fall Frolic (so-named by one potential retreat-goer :) taking place on a beautiful lake, at a beautiful location, here in my home state of Maine this coming September 19-23.

View Art Creativity & Wellbeing in YouTube here, find it in your favorite podcast app, or subscribe below so it shows up right into your inbox.

Dreamers and Doers Group: Click this link to to learn about the online community I created to do just that… Be in community together.

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

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We are starting something new today, a series on feeling alive!

Today's question: What makes you feel alive?

I'll see you next week for the next part of our series.

Here is the very fun Venn diagram that I reference today:

Find it here if for example you are in your favorite podcast app, and it doesn't support images.

Thanks for being here. See you for part two next week!

Kay

Nuts & Bolts

Dreamers and Doers Group: Click this link to to learn about the online community I created to do just that… Be in community together.

View Art Creativity & Wellbeing in YouTube here, find it in your favorite podcast app, or subscribe below so it shows up right into your inbox.

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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What an interesting podcasting experiment, to return to the same subject matter once each month and see what shows up.

I see progress with strengthening my muscles of staying with what's aligned, and of remembering that I can give my body feelings of safety and love, no matter the environment that I find myself in.Also - I am hosting an in-person retreat on a beautiful lake here in Maine in September! It is six days, beginning Thursday, 17 September to Wednesday, 23 September.

The theme is Grown-up Summer Camp.

It's an antidote to the stress, the overwhelm, the burnout that is so prevalent right now as we grown-ups work to find solutions for what's wrong in our society.

Stay tuned for more info on that, I am so excited to be able to offer it out.

Thank you for being here with me. I’m glad to be here with you.

Love, Kay

Nuts & Bolts

Days of Creation 2026: Read about – and play along at – the Days of Creation 2026 game (that this episode is about) by clicking here.

Dreamers and Doers Community: Click this link to see the About page in the Skool platform. If joining fields aligned, that’s awesome! And if you have any questions, please get in touch at https://kaylockkolp.com/contact

View Art Creativity & Wellbeing in YouTube here, find it in your favorite podcast app, or subscribe below so it shows up right into your inbox.

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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This conversation reset my perspective in a most helpful way. Today's guest, Historian Alnoor Dhanani, shares about human curiosity and ingenuity over millennia, and all across the globe.

One of my favorite things about the conversation is how he speaks of ancient times in the present tense.

I hope you enjoy this uplifting and elevating conversation is much as I did.

Nuts & Bolts

Questions and Thoughts: If you’ve got further questions or thoughts for Alnoor, please direct them to me at my contact page and I will pass them along: https://kaylockkolp.com/contact

My Brain & Me Workshop: I am co-facilitating a workshop along with wonderful coach and very dear colleague Sarah-Jayne Juniper, this coming Saturday, February 28. It’s about making peace with our internal operating system. This feels important now, more than ever. Click here to read more about it.

ACWB in YouTube: View the Art Creativity & Wellbeing show in YouTube here.

Thank you for being here. Sending you much love – Kay

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My Brain & Me Workshop: I am co-facilitating a Roundtable along with today's guest! She is wonderful coach and very dear colleague Sarah Juniper, and our roundtable is about making peace with our internal operating system. This feels important now, more than ever. Click here to read more about the Roundtable, taking place on Saturday 28 February.

Welcome to a conversation that I hope you really enjoy, Sarah and I being open and vulnerable about our own brains.

Sarah lives with dyslexia; I live with ADHD. Or as I prefer to call it, Creative Energetic Curiosity Syndrome.

Our lives have been filled with challenges and opportunities for learning and enjoyment, what with how our internal operating systems work.

Knowing how they work and understanding ourselves well has been an important part of our growth, and I am so excited for you to be able to listen to how that shows up in our lives.

Nuts & Bolts

To connect with Sarah in LinkedIn, where she is called Sarah-Jayne, click here.

To learn more about the My Brain & Me Roundtable on Saturday 28 February, click here.

ACWB in YouTube: View the Art Creativity & Wellbeing show in YouTube here.

Thank you for being here. Sending you much love – Kay

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

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Here we are at the finale to this series on Cultivating a Positive Money Mindset! Today we bring the ideas we’ve been discussing together and I share two tiny steps that you can take – and keep taking over time – that are super helpful in cultivating this mindset.

So open up the notes app on your phone or find yourself a journal, grab a cup of tea and your favorite blanket, and let’s hop in!

Important Money Mindset Resources:

How to Solve All Your Money Problems Forever, by Victor Boc

Love Money, Money Loves You, by Sarah McCrum

Profit First, by Mike Michaelowicz

Art Creativity & Wellbeing Episode 444, my conversation with Mike Michaelowicz

Dreamers & Doers, the community I founded to cultivate – and be among people with – positive mindsets in general!

Write to me at this link with questions and comments

And/or

Subscribe to the newsletter form of this podcast so that future episodes land right in your inbox

Thank you for being here! It means a lot, as do you.

Love, Kay

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

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If you’d like to feel some hope and know that you are among people who, like ourselves, are searching for solutions that support everyone, this is your conversation.

Ashland, Massachusetts Chief of Police Cara Rossi spent a wonderful hour talking with me today, and I'm so excited to bring you our conversation.

Shared with lots of gratitude to Cara – and to you for listening and for sharing your questions. (We had lots of great questions! Thank you so much.)

Nuts & Bolts

Questions and Thoughts: If you've got further questions or thoughts for Chief Rossi, please direct them to me at my contact page and I will pass them along: https://kaylockkolp.com/contact

Rebels for Peace: Cara and I briefly talk about the wonderful youth led nonprofit supporting South Side Chicago, Rebels for Peace. See more about them and what they do at their lovely website, which I honestly sometimes visit just to feel their amazing vibe, https://www.rebelsforpeace.org/

My Brain & Me Workshop: I am co-facilitating a workshop along with wonderful coach and very dear colleague Sarah-Jayne Juniper, coming up at the end of February. It’s about making peace with our internal operating system. This feels important now, more than ever. Click here to read more about it.

ACWB in YouTube: View the Art Creativity & Wellbeing show in YouTube here.

Thank you for being here. Sending you much love – Kay

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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This one's a little messy. Not a surprise, given how messy January has been.

I wanted to bring it to you even though it's messy, because it's real too. It's about real things that really matter. You're here, reading and listening, so I think they’ll matter to you as well.

Thank you for being here with me. I'm glad to be here with you.

Love, Kay

Nuts & Bolts

Got a question for this coming Tuesday's guest, Chief of Police Cara Rossi? Chief Rossi is my friend and does a great job in her suburban Massachusetts Police Department of, as she puts it, "leading with love.”

Ask Chief Rossi a question by clicking over to my contact page, by 9 AM Tuesday morning, February 3. Here's the link – https://kaylockkolp.com/contact. If this arrived in your inbox feel free to simply hit reply to ask your question.

Read more about Chief Rossi by clicking here.

Read about – and play along at – the Days of Creation 2026 game (that this episode is about) by clicking here.

My Brain & Me Workshop: I am co-facilitating a workshop along with wonderful coach and very dear colleague Sarah-Jayne Juniper, coming up at the end of February. It's about making peace with our internal operating system. This feels important now, more than ever. Click here to read more about it.

View the Art Creativity & Wellbeing show in YouTube here.

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Today’s show brings in an important idea when cultivating a positive money mindset: being curious about what we are really good at and enjoy doing.

How we feel about money will improve as we do more and more of that which we are really good at and enjoy doing.

Hope you enjoy this one!

I keep bringing this up, because it keeps being true: the most important person who will hear your responses to the questions being asked in this series, is you.

So open up the notes app on your phone or find yourself a journal, grab a cup of tea and your favorite blanket, and let’s hop in!

Here’s the Days of Creation 2026 Game Book and guidelines for playing – next week I’ll share how January has shown up as related to what I wrote about the whole month, back on January 1.

The following week stay tuned for the conclusion to this series on Cultivating a Positive Money Mindset. Woo hoo!

Write to me at this link with questions and comments

And/or

Subscribe to the newsletter form of this podcast so that future episodes land right in your inbox

Thank you for being here! It means a lot, as do you.

Love, Kay

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

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How we spend our time, and how aligned our days are spent with how we wish to spend them, is directly influenced by the kind of money mindset we have.

Today I’ve got a couple questions to help you get a sense of this alignment for yourself.

I keep bringing this up, because it keeps being true: the key person who will hear you, is you.

So open up the notes app on your phone or find yourself a journal, grab a cup of tea and your favorite blanket, and let’s hop in!

Write to me at this link with questions and comments

And/or

Subscribe to the newsletter form of this podcast so that future episodes land right in your inbox

Thank you for being here! It means a lot, as do you.

Love, Kay

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

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I HAD NO IDEA how negative my money mindset used to be. Lack was the word that best describes it.

Over several years I’ve opened more and more to feeling abundance.

Even with all that growth, 2025 blew the absolute doors off of any abundance mindset I’d ever had.

Between the dream home and property my life partner and I now live on, and the up-leveling of service that I have been able to provide with my better money mindset, both as a coach and also creatively, I simply have one thing to say:

If I can do it… You can too.

I’m taking you into how, with a multipart series on cultivating a positive money mindset.

Today we start with two important questions. I’d love to hear your responses to each of them, and your questions about cultivating this mindset too.

But the key person who will hear you, is you.

So open up the notes app on your phone or find yourself a journal, grab a cup of tea and your favorite blanket, and let’s hop in!

Write to me at this link with questions and comments

And/or

Subscribe to the newsletter form of this podcast so that future episodes land right in your inbox

Thank you for being here! It means a lot, as do you.

Love, Kay

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Happy new year! For this episode I share three questions that have been super helpful for me in envisioning a wonderful 2026. I share my responses to them… With such curiosity about you. I wonder how you would answer these questions?

Here are the questions:

1. A Magical Three from this year’s Year Compass:

“I will have the power to say no to these three things.”… What are your three things?

1. & 3. These next two come from my conversations with my AI thinking partner:

“What does 2026 wish for you to remember about your own aliveness – especially in the quieter, slower, or less certain moments?”

“What felt newly possible for you in 2026 – something that once lived only in your imagination, but that this year brought into form, presence, or even just tangible steps forward?”

I hope they help you create a really wonderful coming year!

Come Play a Game with Me

Today I share about Days of Creation 2026, a way to "proactively build your coming year.” Click here for the post where you can download your complimentary copy of the Game Book and then we can play together!

Come Be in Good Company

Last year I founded Dreamers & Doers, a group that has grown into a really wonderful and quite magical place. If wonder, magic, and being in good company sound like your cup of tea, click here to read more about it.

As always, thank you so much for being here with me. It means a lot that you are on the journey.See you next week!

Love, Kay

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber by going to https://kaylockkolp.substack.com/

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Well, here we are at the end of a fascinating and pretty buckwild year! I have got a quickie self-care practice for you today, and a game that we can play together all throughout 2026. (The link below is where you can play.)

Happy 2026, dear friend. I hope it's an awesome year for you. You deserve it. And you rock!Love,Kay

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On 23 December 2022 I sustained a head injury that took me many many months to recover from. I spent half the following year in physical therapy supporting my eyes to work properly again. The head injury permanently changed how I engage with print and reading.

It had one other, very beneficial, effect: at the hospital I was told “You need lots of rest. If you want to get truly better from this you must take it easy.”

It was two days before Christmas. How in heck was I going to “take it easy” two days before Christmas?

For the first time in a very long time, I did. The ease that that brought into my life made it one of the most pleasant Christmases in years.

Ease. That’s what we’re talking about today.

I share a quickie self-care practice that can help us remember that there’s such a thing in the world as ease, and that maybe we can allow some of that into our experience.

I also bring a question for you:

What does it take for you to allow ease into your life?

I would love to hear. You can share in the comments for this post, hit reply to write directly to me if this landed in your inbox, or share via my website contact page, https://www.kaylockkolp.com/contact/.

Thanks for being along on this journey with me.

Sending you love today <3

Kay

Invitations for You

• Earlier this year I founded a group, Dreamers & Doers. It’s a place to grow, be in good company, and have some fun! If that’s a space you might appreciate, visit skool.com/dreamersanddoers.

• Subscribe to this newsletter so that these posts land right in your inbox, and to receive chapters of my new book, Hug Yourself, right into your inbox too, as they are being written, by going to kaylockkolp.substack.com.

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Today and for the rest of the year, I am offering out one tiny little micro practice each week for you… for us… To take into our days and say “I love you lots!” to ourselves.

This week we bring our focus to feeling okay even amidst those who do not. Hope it's helpful.Sending you love today <3

Kay

New Book Cover and New Book Name!

I am excited to share the first of a couple covers I am having designed to bring Hug Yourself into reality.

Click here to take a look!

Thank you for being along this journey with me. It means a lot. <3

Invitations for You

• Earlier this year I founded a group, Dreamers & Doers. It’s a place to grow, be in good company, and have some fun! If that’s a space you might appreciate, visit skool.com/dreamersanddoers. Price goes up on 1 January, 2026.

• Subscribe to this newsletter and receive chapters of my new book, Hug Yourself, right into your inbox as they are being written by going to kaylockkolp.substack.com.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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This game came in really handy when my eardrum ruptured over Thanksgiving week! It was great to have a little reminder that even on the worst days, there's still good around when we look for it. THANK YOU to my dear friend and colleague Dr. Alice Ackerman for the game.

Today and for the rest of the year, I am offering out one tiny little micro practice each week for you… for us… To take into our days and say “I love you lots!” to ourselves.Sending you love today <3

Kay

Invitations for You

• Add to your art collection… or enhance somebody else’s… Visit kaylockkolp.com/art. I'm adding new pieces in frequently, what fun!

• Earlier this year I founded a group, Dreamers & Doers. It's a place to grow, be in good company, and have some fun! If that’s a space you might appreciate, visit skool.com/dreamersanddoers. Price goes up on 1 January, 2026.

• Subscribe to this newsletter and receive chapters of my new book, Hug Yourself, right into your inbox as they are being written by going to kaylockkolp.substack.com.

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Today and for the rest of the year, I am offering out one tiny little micro practice each week for you… for us, if I’m being honest… To take into our days and say “I love you lots!” to ourselves.In this one, we’re seeing how it feels to celebrate a creative win.Sending you love today <3

Kay

Invitations for You

• I am offering an art sale at my website! Through THIS COMING Friday, 5 December, use coupon code GRATEFUL2025 to get 50% off your purchase over $199. So if you’d like to add to your collection… or enhance somebody else’s… Visit kaylockkolp.com/art. What fun!

• Today’s practice comes directly from the group I founded earlier this year, Dreamers & Doers. We have been enjoying the community as a place to take a breath and be in good company. To feel understood and loved. If that’s a space you might appreciate, visit skool.com/dreamersanddoers.

• Would you enjoy receiving all future episodes of this show directly into your inbox, as well as access to lots of other goodies, and all the newsletter archives? Subscribe for free by going to kaylockkolp.substack.com.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Hello fellow fun seeker! Today and for the rest of the year, I am offering out one tiny little micro practice each week for you… for us, if I'm being honest… To take into our days and say "I love you lots!” to ourselves.In this one, we’re practicing a simple noticing: what do I need right now? If possible, we're giving it to ourselves.Sending you love today <3

Kay

Invitations for You

• I am offering an art sale at my website! Through Friday, 5 December, use coupon code GRATEFUL2025 to get 50% off your purchase over $199. I’m adding more items throughout the sale and I’m even experimenting with offering prints of my art for the first time ever. So if you’d like to add to your collection… or enhance somebody else’s… Visit kaylockkolp.com/art. What fun!

• Today's practice comes directly from the group I founded in August, Dreamers & Doers. We have been enjoying the community as a place to take a breath and be in good company. To feel understood and loved. If that’s a space you might appreciate, visit skool.com/dreamersanddoers.

• Would you enjoy receiving all future episodes of this show directly into your inbox, as well as access to lots of other goodies, and all the newsletter archives? Subscribe for free by going to kaylockkolp.substack.com.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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There are a couple F bombs! So maybe headphones or listening away from sensitive ears are good choices for this episode today.

I love when it happens that stories that I hadn’t really been intending to share just present themselves as what feels right to say in the moment.

It turns out that taking you into my art means taking you into my LIFE over this last year-ish, a time of disruption, growth, relocation, retreat… In a word, transformation.

Zoom summary below - it did a good job reflecting this episode.If you'd like to see my artwork, go to https://kaylockkolp.com/art – and if you are there before December 5, while my annual art sale is taking place, you can enjoy 50% savings on everything that you see!

• If you’d like to become a subscriber to my newsletter, you’ll receive all future episodes directly into your inbox, as well as have access to all the newsletter archives… These podcast episodes as well as other goodies… Subscribe for free by going to kaylockkolp.substack.com.

Thanks for being here with me. This one felt pretty vulnerable in some spots! Means a lot to have you along on the ride. <3

Love, Kay

Here are the Zoom AI Summary Notes.. they were pretty spot-on today

Art, Creativity, and Personal Stories

Kay introduces a bonus episode of her show “Art, Creativity, and Wellbeing,” where she shares her recent art creations and the stories behind them. She discusses a series of small pastel paintings, including a moonlit scene inspired by a drive home and a series of six sunset paintings that were later transformed into moonrise pieces. Kay explains her creative process and the emotional impact of sharing her art with others.

Mini Paintings and Pricing Strategy

Kay discussed her mini paintings, explaining that they are the size of a Pokemon card and come with a protective plastic covering and a mini easel for display. She described her shipping process and mentioned that she includes a care note on the back of each painting. Kay also talked about her pricing strategy, noting that as her art becomes more successful, she has made some pieces more affordable to make them accessible to a wider audience. The sale is set to run until early December, with a possible extension to the 8th.

Art Sale and Promotion Updates

Kay discussed her ongoing art sale, highlighting discounted prices for smaller pieces and a 50% off website-wide savings using the coupon code GRATEFUL2025. She explained her decision to offer more affordable options, particularly for smaller studies, and mentioned plans to introduce prints based on customer feedback. Kay also shared details about a pastel painting she created while sitting in her car, inspired by a scene from a park in Massachusetts.

Plein Air Painting Experiences

Kay shared her experiences with plein air painting, including a pastel piece of Hopkinton State Park and a painting titled “In the Bee Garden” created during a trip to England. She described the reactions of innkeepers and fellow travelers to her artwork, particularly the appreciation for her depiction of Yorkshire’s timber and stone elements. Kay also discussed her progression as a plein air painter, highlighting a 5x7 inch painting of Riverbend Farm and a diptych piece, expressing her love for the artistic concept of diptychs and triptychs.

Artistic Journeys and Landscape Inspiration

Kay shared her artistic journey, highlighting her fascination with diptychs and triptychs, and described a recent commission piece and an art demo in Colorado. She explained the inspiration behind a painting of Loveland Pass and the Continental Divide, expressing her awe at the natural landscape. Kay also discussed her experience creating watercolor paintings during a trip to Spain, emphasizing the ease of travel with watercolor materials compared to pastels.

Galicia Co-Living Retreat Experience

Kay shared her experience of staying at iSlow Co-Living, a restored stone house in Galicia, where she and seven others had exclusive use of the property during their week-long retreat. The hosts, Julio and Ines, who grew up in the area, provided generous hospitality and shared insights about the historical features of the house, including an indoor well. Kay described her artistic process of creating a drawing on-site and later incorporating it into a painting using colors from her other works.

Impressionist Coastal Art Discussion

Kay shared her latest painting, which depicts a coastal scene reminiscent of the beach near Laxe, and expressed satisfaction with her decision to embrace an impressionist style rather than striving for photorealism. She explained that her work often conveys a sense of motion and energy, which she now appreciates as a strength rather than a shortcoming. Kay also mentioned a previous painting of her son playing the guitar, and expressed relief at completing her latest work.

Pastel Prints and Life Transitions

Kay shared her excitement about new pastel prints and discussed the process of creating and signing them. She explained how she used a pastel diptych as a reference for a larger painting, which was then turned into a print. Kay also talked about a painting of amaryllis that helped her find mindfulness during a turbulent winter, and one of a Maine sunset that symbolized her family’s intention to move to Maine. She described the challenges of selling their Massachusetts home and finding a new one, ultimately discovering their current home through a Facebook Marketplace posting.

Moving Homes and Artistic Journey

Kay shared her personal story about moving homes, highlighting the emotional journey and the overwhelming response to their previous house, which received 22 offers and sold quickly. She described the serendipitous process of finding their current home, which they viewed during open houses for their old property. Kay also discussed her artistic process, mentioning that she often creates watercolor paintings in sketchbooks, and she showcased her first watercolor painting, which she made in England.

Kay’s Artistic Inspirations

Kay shared her recent artistic creations, including paintings and prints inspired by her experiences at Wachusett Mountain and Coast Guard Beach. She explained the process of creating prints from two of her sketches and expressed her love for her sketchbook, which she is not yet ready to part with. Kay also described her vision of a beach in Laxe, Spain, called Sea Glass Beach, located on the Costa da Morte peninsula.

Sea Glass Beach Cultural Exploration

Kay shared her experiences exploring a sea glass beach in Laxe, where she learned about its history as a result of centuries-old shipwrecks. She described the local culture and language, noting the kindness of residents despite language barriers. Kay also recounted a chance encounter with a gardener who redirected her to a different path, highlighting the welcoming nature of the community.

Chapel Art and Holiday Sale

Kay shared her experience painting a chapel called Santa Rosa de Lima, located on a hill above Laxe town, and described the surrounding landscape and her visit with Gloria. She explained the details of her art sale, offering 50% off all items on her website with a coupon code, and mentioned that the sale would likely end on December 5th. Kay expressed gratitude for the opportunity to create and share art, and shared of a new series of mini episodes aimed at providing support during the holiday season.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Greetings friend! I'm geeking out a little bit today on something that's been both a passion of mine and my professional work for more than three decades: human dynamics, the study of how humans interact with each other.

We human beings are fascinating creatures.

We can seem very unpredictable to someone who’s not inside ourselves.

We can even seem unpredictable to ourselves at times.

Over the last several months I have reflected on and developed two Universal Laws of Human Dynamics. They are based on my work over the decades as an educator and coach – there's been lots of opportunity to observe humans over all of this time – plus the many years of dedicated learning that I started with as an undergrad and continued with into my graduate degree.

These two Universal Laws invite looking at our neighbors and ourselves through a different lens, one that you might find extremely useful in interacting with others.

Hope you enjoy this one!

Invitations for You

• I am offering an art sale at my website! Through Friday, 5 December, use coupon code GRATEFUL2025 to get 50% off your purchase over $200. I’m adding more items throughout the sale and I’m even experimenting with offering prints of my art for the first time ever. So if you’d like to add to your collection… or enhance somebody else’s… Visit kaylockkolp.com/art. What fun!

• I’ve been growing a group community over these last few months. It’s called Dreamers & Doers. The people in this group – and I include myself in this – have been enjoying the community as a place to take a breath and be in good company. To feel understood and loved. If that’s a space you might appreciate, and you’d like to learn more or join, visit skool.com/dreamersanddoers.

• If you’d like to become a subscriber to my newsletter, you’ll receive all future episodes directly into your inbox, as well as have access to all the newsletter archives… These podcast episodes as well as other goodies… Subscribe for free by going to kaylockkolp.substack.com.

Wishing you well! Until we meet again <3

Love, Kay

Kay Lock Kolp M.Ed.Founder, Dreamers & Doers CommunityCoaching | Art | Writing | Shows: https://kaylockkolp.com

The quote I live by: “Till this moment I never knew myself.” - Jane Austen

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Greetings friend! I'm just back from a transformative and restorative retreat in northern Spain where I got some essential solo exploration time and also took part in a lovely and amazing group retreat offered by friend-of-the-podcast Monique Giroux (here's her website so you can get to know her better!) and spent with some truly amazing women.

Today's episode is about an important part of my learning, an important reminder as I am integrating back into my life: to place the big rocks first.

I hope it's helpful! Especially at this interesting time of year in which we find ourselves.

Invitations for You

• I am offering an art sale at my website! Starting THIS Friday, 14 November, use coupon code GRATEFUL2025 to get 50% off your purchase over $200. I'm adding more items throughout the sale (which ends on Friday, 5 December) and I'm even experimenting with offering prints of my art for the first time ever. So if you'd like to add to your collection… or enhance somebody else's… Visit kaylockkolp.com/art. What fun!

• I've been growing a group community over these last few months. It's called Dreamers & Doers. The people in this group – and I include myself in this – have been enjoying the community as a place to take a breath and be in good company. To feel understood and loved. Throughout this time of transformation in my own life, I've been especially grateful for the community. Our weekly Office Hours feel like fun and meaningful time together, the conversations in the forums are helpful and delightful. If that's a space you might appreciate, and you'd like to learn more or join, visit skool.com/dreamersanddoers.

• If you'd like to become a subscriber to my newsletter, you’ll receive all future episodes directly into your inbox, as well as have access to all the newsletter archives… These podcast episodes as well as other goodies… Subscribe for free by going to kaylockkolp.substack.com.

Wishing you well! Until we meet again <3

Love, Kay

Kay Lock Kolp M.Ed. - Coaching | Art | Writing | Shows: https://kaylockkolp.com

The quote I live by: “Till this moment I never knew myself.” - Jane Austen

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Greetings! Today’s is another in this series of “lost” Tools Chats recorded with my friend and colleague Andrew Moss . It’s about an important tool on my journey that I still find extremely helpful even today, I Am Not My Thoughts.

We hope that this will be a super helpful episode for you on your journey.

Enjoy!

• Would you like to be part of our final Tools Chat coming up in November 2025? Email me here and we’ll get you in the room!

• Consider subscribing to this newsletter so that it shows up in your inbox, instead of you having to go search for it :)

About this Series…

It’s really a podcast within a podcast!In these “Waking Up: The Tools” conversations Andrew and I discuss the essential tools we developed that helped me grow into the person who hiked all by myself across northern England in 2023… After needing a wheelchair to go more than a few steps in 2011.

We’ve called this series Waking up: The Tools because they’re featured in my award-winning memoir, Waking Up. We’re featuring these tools here on ACWB in this latter part of 2025, collecting them all together for your listening pleasure.

See you soon! Thank you for being along on the journey.With Love,

Kay

Kay Lock Kolp M.Ed. - Coaching | Art | Writing | Shows: https://kaylockkolp.com

The quote I live by: “Till this moment I never knew myself.” - Jane Austen

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Greetings! Today’s is another in this series of “lost” Tools Chats recorded with my friend and colleague Andrew Moss . It’s about an important tool on my journey that I still find extremely helpful even today, The Law of the Universe.

A note for paid supporters: with my travel this past month I have drafted, but not yet finished, the chapter of my forthcoming book that should have been yours in October. I am excited to share it with you in early November.. Thank you for your patience ❤️ I appreciate you and your support.

This was done as a LinkedIn live back in Spring 2025, so the production and sound quality is a little different than what you’re used to… But we hope that this will be a super helpful episode regardless.

Enjoy!

• Would you like to be part of our final Tools Chat coming up in November 2025? Email me here and we’ll get you in the room!

• Consider subscribing to this newsletter so that it shows up in your inbox, instead of you having to go search for it :)

About this Series…

It’s really a podcast within a podcast!In these “Waking Up: The Tools” conversations Andrew and I discuss the essential tools we developed that helped me grow into the person who hiked all by myself across northern England in 2023… After needing a wheelchair to go more than a few steps in 2011.

We’ve called this series Waking up: The Tools because they’re featured in my award-winning memoir, Waking Up. We’re featuring these tools here on ACWB in this latter part of 2025, collecting them all together for your listening pleasure.

See you soon! Thank you for being along on the journey.With Love,

Kay

Kay Lock Kolp M.Ed. - Coaching | Art | Writing | Shows: https://kaylockkolp.com

The quote I live by: “Till this moment I never knew myself.” - Jane Austen

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Greetings! Today’s is another in this series of "lost" Tools Chats recorded with my friend and colleague Andrew Moss . It's about an important tool on my journey that I still find extremely helpful even today.

This was done as a LinkedIn live back in Spring 2025, so the production and sound quality is a little different than what you’re used to… But we hope that this will be a super helpful episode regardless.

Enjoy!

• Would you like to be part of our final Tools Chat coming up in November 2025? Email me here and we’ll get you in the room!

• Consider subscribing to this newsletter so that it shows up in your inbox, instead of you having to go search for it :)

About this Series…

It’s really a podcast within a podcast!

In these “Waking Up: The Tools” conversations Andrew and I discuss the essential tools we developed that helped me grow into the person who hiked all by myself across northern England in 2023… After needing a wheelchair to go more than a few steps in 2011.

We’ve called this series Waking up: The Tools because they’re featured in my award-winning memoir, Waking Up. We’re featuring these tools here on ACWB in this latter part of 2025, collecting them all together for your listening pleasure.

See you soon! Thank you for being along on the journey.

With Love,

Kay

Kay Lock Kolp M.Ed. - Coaching | Art | Writing | Shows: https://kaylockkolp.com

The quote I live by: “Till this moment I never knew myself.” - Jane Austen

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Greetings! Today's episode is the first-ever chat with my friend and colleague Andrew Moss regarding the tools that we developed together as I was training to solo-hike across northern England in 2023.This was done as a LinkedIn live back in Winter 2025, and I hear a little bit of nervous energy in my voice as we get rolling in the conversation. I wonder if you'll hear that as well?

Today we chat about a tool we call Minding My Own Business. This was, and continues to be even today, something I bring patience for myself with. When I am going through something, part of my brain is really challenged to mind its own business. Hope this is helpful if you're familiar with those moments too.

You can look forward to a whole month worth of Tools Chats – “lost episodes”! We recorded them out over winter and spring 2025, and I’ve been really looking forward to the opportunity to get them to you.

Hope you enjoy!

• Would you like to be part of our final Tools Chat coming up in November 2025? Email me here and we’ll get you in the room!

• Consider subscribing to this newsletter so that it shows up in your inbox, instead of you having to go search for it :)

About this Series…

It’s really a podcast within a podcast!In these “Waking Up: The Tools” conversations Andrew and I discuss the essential tools we developed that helped me grow into the person who hiked all by myself across northern England in 2023… After needing a wheelchair to go more than a few steps in 2011.

We’ve called this series Waking up: The Tools because they’re featured in my award-winning memoir, Waking Up.

See you soon! Thank you for being along on the journey.With Love,

Kay

Kay Lock Kolp M.Ed. - Coaching | Art | Writing | Shows: https://kaylockkolp.com

The quote I live by: “Till this moment I never knew myself.” - Jane Austen

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Greetings! It’s time for another chat with my friend and colleague Andrew Moss regarding the tools that we developed together as I was training to solo-hike across northern England in 2023.

Today you’ll hear about a tool we call Periods. Not commas. Back when Andrew was my coach and I was training to cross northern England on foot, this was the first tool that my brain was able to take in. It's been interesting to see where and how the tool has shown up in both of our lives.

You can look forward to a whole month worth of Tools Chats – “lost episodes”! We recorded them out over winter and spring 2025, and I've been really looking forward to the opportunity to get them to you.

Hope you enjoy!

• Would you like to be part of our final Tools Chat coming up in November 2025? Email me here and we’ll get you in the room!

• Consider subscribing to this newsletter so that it shows up in your inbox, instead of you having to go search for it :)

About this Series…

It’s really a podcast within a podcast!In these “Waking Up: The Tools” conversations Andrew and I discuss the essential tools we developed that helped me grow into the person who hiked all by myself across northern England in 2023… After needing a wheelchair to go more than a few steps in 2011.

We’ve called this series Waking up: The Tools because they’re featured in my award-winning memoir, Waking Up.

See you soon! Thank you for being along on the journey.With Love,

Kay

Kay Lock Kolp M.Ed. - Coaching | Art | Writing | Shows: https://kaylockkolp.com

The quote I live by: “Till this moment I never knew myself.” - Jane Austen

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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I am excited to bring you this one, an update as the upheaval settles after my life partner and I relocated from where we just kinda ended up… to where we really wished to be.

Paid Supporters: Your Chapter Is Here <3

At the end of this post is the most recent chapter from my forthcoming book, a.k.a. little piece of my heart, thank you to you paid supporters for allowing me to be vulnerable and courageous to share with you. It means a lot.

This particular chapter is a departure in terms of how it's written. It feels real, honest, fun… Me! I hope you enjoy it.

If you're not yet a paid supporter, and you'd like to receive this and future little pieces of my heart straight into your inbox (as well as having access to all the archives and previous chapters), click here: https://kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

Stop Enduring Systems That Suck

(That title is literally what Substack named one of the clips I'll be sharing out about this episode! I'm still laughing about it. What a great title :)

Changing Systems, the workshop, starts tonight! Here’s the link if you’d like to take part: https://www.kaylockkolp.com/system/

Celebrating Transformation, Celebrating Presence… Celebrating Coaching

This is what we will be doing around here over the next couple months! In a fun way, as I continue sharing out the Waking Up: The Tools conversations with my colleague and friend Coach Andrew Moss. I'm even bringing you the lost episodes. Stay tuned!If you'd like to be part of our wrap up Tools Chat which will take place in November, get in touch with me here: https://kaylockkolp.com/contact and we’ll get you in the room.

Lots of love, and excitement for what's ahead – thanks for being here with me.

❤️Kay

My memoir is available wherever you get your audiobooks, and in e-book and paperback formats here.

Kay Lock Kolp M.Ed. - Coaching | Art | Writing | Shows: https://kaylockkolp.com

The quote I live by: “Till this moment I never knew myself.” - Jane Austen

• Subscribe so that this shows up in your inbox, instead of you having to go search for it :)

Paid Supporters, Here is your Chapter: https://kaylockkolp.substack.com/p/477-a-joyful-update-also-whats-in

(Log in to Substack to see it :)

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Greetings! It's time for another great conversation with my friend and colleague Andrew Moss regarding the tools that we developed together as I was training to solo-hike across northern England in 2023.

Today you’ll hear about a tool we call Negative Thoughts are Opportunities for Growth. It’s a conversation that will feel relevant and helpful, if you've ever been derailed by the thoughts inside yourself.

Hope you enjoy!

• Would you like to be part of our final Tools Chat coming up in November 2025? Email me here and we’ll get you in the room!

• Here's the first in the series I did about The Relationship Handbook by George Pransky. This book comes up today as it is a favorite of both Andrew’s and mine.

• Here's where you can find out more about the Rebels for Peace Program.

• Consider subscribing to this newsletter so that it shows up in your inbox, instead of you having to go search for it :)

About this Series…

It's really a podcast within a podcast!In these "Waking Up: The Tools” conversations Andrew and I discuss the essential tools we developed that helped me grow into the person who hiked all by myself across northern England in 2023… After needing a wheelchair to go more than a few steps in 2011.

We've called this series Waking up: The Tools because they’re featured in my award-winning memoir, Waking Up.

See you soon! Thank you for being along on the journey.

With Love, Kay

Kay Lock Kolp M.Ed. - Coaching | Art | Writing | Shows: https://kaylockkolp.com

The quote I live by: “Till this moment I never knew myself." - Jane Austen

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Today's episode is another one that I have been WAITING FOR SO LONG to bring you! Please welcome Jeff Lamb, creator of the Pathfinders original podcast series and cofounder of Pathfinders for Good, which is all about celebrating and supporting everyday heroes.

This episode is uniquely done – I get to bring the wonderful framework that Jeff developed for the Pathfinders show, on him! The result is a wonderful synthesis that gets to the heart of who Jeff is, and why.

You are going to love our conversation!

I’m offering a workshop on transforming systems – what system would you change if you could? Register for this workshop to really do it!

Starts on 30 September. Here’s the link if you’d like to join! https://www.kaylockkolp.com/system/

Wishing you well today, cheers!Kay

• Subscribe to this newsletter so that it shows up in your inbox, instead of you having to go search for it :)

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Kay Lock Kolp is a coach, podcast host, writer, and artist who helps people achieve wholeness and well-being. After experiencing a health crisis in 2011 that limited her mobility, Kay embarked on a transformative journey of self-discovery.

Kay demonstrated her resilience by hiking England's Coast-to-Coast Path solo in 2023, an experience that embodies her philosophy of gentle, persistent self-actualization.

She now coaches clients to envision bold futures while taking manageable steps toward their goals, with a special focus on supporting those who've put others first and are ready to see what happens when they bring the same care to themselves.

Her approach blends vulnerability, compassion, and practical support to help clients create meaningful transformation in their lives and communities.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Greetings from Maine, USA, where I LIVE now, after 28 years of trying! I am OVER the MOON and sharing this short update celebrating dreaming, doing, and changing systems. It was recorded on my epic 1 mile walk to the mailbox this morning!

I'll be back a little later this week with an interview that I'm super excited to bring to you :)

In the meantime, if changing systems from a place of feeling good inside resonates, read more about the workshop I'm offering (starts September 30) here: https://kaylockkolp.com/system

If you'd like to learn more about the group I've just opened for people who have been caring for others and would like to see how it feels to bring that same care for themselves, click here: https://www.skool.com/dreamersanddoers/about

Recordings and engagement on the workshop above are included in membership in this group. Hooray!

Subscribe to this newsletter so that it shows up in your inbox, instead of you having to go search for it :)

Wishing you lots of love, talk soon! – Kay

Kay Lock Kolp M.Ed.

Coaching | Art | Writing | Shows: https://kaylockkolp.com

The quote I live by: “Till this moment I never knew myself." - Jane Austen

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Greetings friend! Today's a quick update on what-all is happening around here.. and gets into a bit of what 'here' means for my life partner and I right now!

Here's the poem that I read for you in this episode:

The Taste of Freedom

I couldn’t find a fork

Or oil

Or salt.

The pan had been packed.

Couldn’t make my preferred breakfast

No eggs

Quinoa

Avocado

Available even if I could.

So I ate my breakfast greens

With my fingers

Enjoyed the hell out of

A cheesy

Greasy

Egg-on-croissant from a local coffee shop

Along with two

Delicious

Tiny

Sungold cherry tomatoes

From the garden that will soon belong

To other stewards of this

The place we’ve called home for 20 years

That was my breakfast on moving day.

Yesterday

As I ate with my fingers I repeated to myself

“This tastes like freedom”

Such joy in my heart.

Anxiety about what could go wrong

Fear about what bad might happen

Used to stop me

From doing things I really wished to do.

All the unknowns.

How would I be okay without

For example

My usual favorite breakfast?

Who am I if I don’t stick to these routines?

And anyway

How do I reimagine my relationship

With my grown children?

What happened that they are now grownups

And not babies in my charge any longer?

Also

What’s lurkingIn all the corners of this home

That I haven’t touched for 20 years?

Where do I start if I wish to move on

To what’s next.

How do I bring intention

To this new phase of my life?

Yikes!

These were some of the many questions

Some of the thousands of

Micro

Macro

Decisions

That I used to avoid

As I tiptoed around trying to make everything not explode.

How wonderful to discover

That it is all good

It’s really okay to just be on my journey.

All figureoutable

I live everywhereI have people to love

People who love me.

I take you with me

Wherever I live

As I take myself.

• by Kay Lock Kolp, Ripley Pond, Maine, Thursday, 21 August 2025

Subscribe to this newsletter so that it shows up in your inbox, instead of you having to go search for it :)

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Today's episode is another one that I have been WAITING FOR SO LONG to bring you! Please welcome Mike Michalowicz, the author of many best-selling books, one very formative one for me and which we talk quite a bit about today, Profit First.

Mike specializes in helping entrepreneurs and creative people figure out their financial stuff in a way that is truly life changing. It's changed my life, and if you read Profit First you'll see how it changed Mike's. He's a great storyteller and a super inspiring person.

You are going to love our conversation!

Cheers! Thank you for being here with me.Kay

• Subscribe to this newsletter so that it shows up in your inbox, instead of you having to go search for it :)

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Subscribed

Kay Lock Kolp is a coach, podcast host, writer, and artist who helps people achieve wholeness and well-being. After experiencing a health crisis in 2011 that limited her mobility, Kay embarked on a transformative journey of self-discovery.

She now coaches clients to envision bold futures while taking manageable steps toward their goals, with a special focus on supporting leaders, creators, and first responders. Kay demonstrated her resilience by hiking England's Coast-to-Coast Path solo in 2023, an experience that embodies her philosophy of gentle, persistent self-actualization.

As a host for Pathfinders For Good, Kay shares stories that amplify positive change, emphasizing that authentic self-care creates ripple effects that benefit others. Her approach blends vulnerability, compassion, and practical support to help clients create meaningful transformation in their lives and communities.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Greetings friend! It's time for another great conversation with friend-of-the-podcast and my colleague Andrew Moss regarding the tools that we developed together as I was training to solo-hike across northern England in 2023.

Today you’ll hear about a tool we call Trust Evidence Over Thoughts, and it’s a conversation that will feel relevant and helpful, if you’ve ever been carried away by your thoughts.

Hope you enjoy!

• Consider subscribing to this newsletter so that it shows up in your inbox, instead of you having to go search for it :)

About this Series…

It's really a podcast within a podcast!In these "Waking Up: The Tools” conversations Andrew and I discuss the essential tools we developed that helped grow into the person who hiked all by myself across northern England in 2023… After needing a wheelchair to go more than a few steps in 2011.

We've called this series Waking up: The Tools because they’re featured in my award-winning memoir, Waking Up.

See you soon friends! Thank you for being along on the journey.With Love, Kay

Kay Lock Kolp M.Ed. - Coaching | Art | Writing | Shows: https://kaylockkolp.com

The quote I live by: “Till this moment I never knew myself.” - Jane Austen

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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I've been waiting to bring you this one for a long time! A great conversation with my longtime friend Bill Dwinnells LMHC, NCC, CCMHC . Bill is making a difference in the lives of many people through his work as a therapist.

Today you'll hear about how Bill got his start and how he started something amazing in Massachusetts when he became the first therapist to ride along with first responders as they do their work.

Our conversation goes down some interesting and inspiring rabbit holes!

Contact Bill either at his personal website, https://www.billdwinnells.com/, or https://gambitcounseling.com/, the solution-focused therapy practice he co-creates that's based in mindfulness and positive psychology.

Hope you enjoy our conversation..

Cheers! Thank you for being here with me.Kay

• Subscribe to this newsletter so that it shows up in your inbox, instead of you having to go search for it :)

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Subscribed

Kay Lock Kolp is a coach, podcast host, writer, and artist who helps people achieve wholeness and well-being. After experiencing a health crisis in 2011 that limited her mobility, Kay embarked on a transformative journey of self-discovery.

She now coaches clients to envision bold futures while taking manageable steps toward their goals, with a special focus on supporting leaders, creators, and first responders. Kay demonstrated her resilience by hiking England's Coast-to-Coast Path solo in 2023, an experience that embodies her philosophy of gentle, persistent self-actualization.

As a host for Pathfinders For Good, Kay shares stories that amplify positive change, emphasizing that authentic self-care creates ripple effects that benefit others. Her approach blends vulnerability, compassion, and practical support to help clients create meaningful transformation in their lives and communities.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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How cool is this – our (AI) friends at Notebook.LM made this Deep Dive about my idea for changing systems that we don't like!

A few weeks ago I wrote an article on this very topic, how to change a system that we don't like. Today you'll hear our friends talk about this method and how to make it work for you, if there is a system or systems that you'd like to change.

Workshop on Changing Systems You Don't Like Starts Tuesday 30th September

If you or someone you know might benefit from being in a gentle space while bringing attention to feeling okay/better/good inside, by changing systems that don't feel good into something that does, here’s the link to learn more..

https://www.kaylockkolp.com/system/

We start TOMORROW Tuesday 30 September :)

A Word About Notebook.LM

I sure had fun playing with this AI technology. Somewhere in the middle you'll hear one of the hosts' voices adopt an Australian accent! I have no idea how that happened but it did make me laugh.

I've learned that AI can be fun and playful. I know not everyone feels this way. Which is why it feels important to say: unless I say differently, as I'm doing today, all the content you read and hear and see here is human made including the art.

So I invite you to relax into this one and give yourself permission to consider: are there systems you wish were different? What we talk about here today is a sustainable way to do that.

Wishing you well today!Thanks for being on the journey with me

❤️Kay

My memoir is available wherever you get your audiobooks, and in e-book and paperback formats here.

Kay Lock Kolp M.Ed. - Coaching | Art | Writing | Shows: https://kaylockkolp.com

The quote I live by: “Till this moment I never knew myself.” - Jane Austen

• Subscribe to this newsletter so that it shows up in your inbox, instead of you having to go search for it :)

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Hail and well met! It's time for another great conversation with friend and colleague, coach Andrew Moss regarding the tools that we developed together as I was training to solo hike across northern England in 2023.

Today you’ll hear about a tool we call The Midline, how it’s shaped each of our lives and how it’s evolved to be even more helpful in the years since it first entered our coaching work.

Hope you enjoy!

About the Series…

It's really a podcast within a podcast!In these "Waking Up: The Tools” conversations Andrew and I discuss the essential tools we developed that helped me transform my experience and grow into the person who hiked all by myself across northern England in 2023… After needing a wheelchair to go more than a few steps in 2011.

We've called this series Waking up: The Tools because they’re featured in my book, Waking Up: How I Grew to Love My Body and My Self While Solo-Hiking Across Northern England (available everywhere you get your audiobooks and Amazon in paperback and e-book format.)

Cheers! Thank you for being here with me.Love, Kay

Kay Lock Kolp M.Ed. - Coaching | Art | Writing | Shows: https://kaylockkolp.com

The quote I live by: “Till this moment I never knew myself.” - Jane Austen

Consider subscribing to this newsletter so that it shows up in your inbox, instead of you having to go search for it :)

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Hello friends! Today's is a quickie, in which I share about this upcoming season of Art Creativity & Wellbeing and what we will be doing around here through September!

And I wrap up with some words that meant a lot to me when I saw them last summer – I'm offering them out in case you need to hear them today.

Wishing you very well! Talk soon.

Love, Kay

Consider subscribing to this newsletter so that it shows up in your inbox, instead of you having to go search for it :)

Kay Lock Kolp is a coach, podcast host, writer, and artist who helps people achieve wholeness and well-being. After experiencing a health crisis in 2011 that limited her mobility, Kay embarked on a transformative journey of self-discovery.

She now coaches clients to envision bold futures while taking manageable steps toward their goals, with a special focus on supporting leaders, creators, and first responders. Kay demonstrated her resilience by hiking England's Coast-to-Coast Path solo in 2023, an experience that embodies her philosophy of gentle, persistent self-actualization.

As a host for Pathfinders For Good, Kay shares stories that amplify positive change, emphasizing that authentic self-care creates ripple effects that benefit others. Her approach blends vulnerability, compassion, and practical support to help clients create meaningful transformation in their lives and communities.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Greetings friends! Today's guests are two close friends who've been incredibly inspiring to me on my journey, Gail Clanton and Janine Halloran! I know they'll be super inspiring for you as well.

Before we jump in: Consider subscribing to this newsletter so that it shows up in your inbox, instead of you having to go search for it :)

Today's is a special conversation sharing about the books that we three have written, why we wrote them, how they've been helpful in the world, and sparking who knows what interesting ideas in you listening and watching!

You'll find Janine Halloran https://encourageplay.com, and Gail Clanton at https://www.gailclanton.com/

Enjoy, enjoy, enjoy :)

About this podcast's new home

Practical Intuition with Kay has become Art Creativity & Wellbeing.I am doing a happy dance about this!

Last summer I started a newsletter called Art Creativity & Wellbeing.

And then things got complicated as I tried to figure out what the newsletter is, what my podcast should focus on – practical intuition felt embedded, and not the focus anymore.

So I've been letting it all kind of rest.Lo and behold, the next steps just kept showing up and showing up.

Now, we've got a great new home in the Substack app!

What this means for you

If you're subscribed in your favorite podcatcher, it's still there.. Or I guess it's still here.

If you're subscribed so that these come into your inbox, that'll still happen too.

If you'd like you can subscribe to get this podcast delivered into your inbox -

Subscribed

You'll also get my weekly newsletter and monthly video for subscribers.

It's a very vibrant new home that we have here and – if it's something that you're enjoying – I'm excited to bring you along on this ride :)

What I'm Up To

New Art Available in My Online Store"I keep your painting on the shelf with my mom['s ashes] so she can see something beautiful every day.”This was said to me recently and I am changed.

If you are in need of inspiration, or if you'd like to add to your art collection with some of my original works, view my art by clicking here.

Pathfinders Podcast HostI'm now a Podcast Host at "the premier platform for changemakers and innovators," Pathfinders.social!

When you think there's no good in the worldWhen you're stuck in a bad energyOr a bad news cycleBoogie on over to PathfindersWhere you will always be inspiredBy the cool things that your fellow humans are up toBy the many ways that humans are creating a better world for everyone.Here is my Pathfinders interviewIf you're doing something cool in the worldHead to Pathfinders.social and add your voiceThen I can interview you!

I am also:

A Coach supporting those who lead from their heart ❤️

An Artist & Creator of Podcasts, Newsletters, and an Award-Winning Memoir

✨🎁🌏

A Thruhiker who used to need a wheelchair

Thank you for being here with me.

See you soon – enjoy this episode!

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Hello friends! Settle in for a story! I'm taking you into an exciting development in my life as an artist: my first five-figure art commission.

Listen for the story.. here in these show notes I'll give you:

The brief answers to the questions I've been asked about this

The five-step plan through which I brought it about.

Before we jump in: Consider subscribing to this newsletter so that it shows up in your inbox, instead of you having to go search for it :)

Questions I’ve Been Asked

Okay! Here are the answers to the questions:

1. Was this a scam? – No :) Instead of a scam the creation of this yuge art commission was an example of trust and commitment.

2. How did you do this? How did you bring it about – did you advertise? Was it word-of-mouth? – The majority of today's episode is the story of how it happened. So I'll allow you to listen and enjoy that!

It can be summed up in the following five points, so read on for the quickie version:

How I Brought This About

1. I cultivated creative enjoyment every day. For at least an hour at first, and then early this year I upped that to two hours per day of creative enjoyment.

2. I asked. I mean this in a cosmic sense. I was open to the possibilities without understanding exactly how everything would happen, just knowing that something fun would happen. It always does!

3. I gave and received trust "for no reason." I did this because generosity, enjoyment and trust are my defaults. They also happen to be wonderful in a professional, creative sense because people enjoy doing business with people they trust.

4. I brought Kindhearted Purposeful Leadership – and commitment – to the process of envisioning and negotiating this commission. Click here to see the LinkedIn profile of my dear colleague and leadership partner in crime, Dr. Patricia Burlaud.

5. Same as the first… I cultivated the daily practice of enjoyment. And that's your challenge. See below!

Your Creative Challenge

.. cultivate at least one hour each day this week of creative enjoyment.

This is enjoyment where you're in solitude and you are not consuming but creating. Can be writing or art; can be cooking or dancing; can be walking or hiking or taking a bath or lying in a favorite spot looking out at the sky.

Be bold and give yourself this gift! Remember… If I can do it, literally anyone can do it. :)

Thank you for being here! Listening in today, and in the cosmic sense. I'm glad we are journeying together.

Love,Kay

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

About Kay

I'm Kay! I am a Coach and Creator helping people feel inspired to believe in themselves.

My background is in human development.

I've spent more than 30 years supporting as people of all ages connect, communicate, enjoy their lives and bring about their best and biggest dreams.

What fun!

I am also the creator of art, an award-winning memoir and multiple newsletters for creatives, for leaders, and for inspiration.

I live in Massachusetts with my partner of 29 years, and I am Mom to two amazing young adults.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Back when I did not have a clear understanding of the values that I held most dear, it's no coincidence that I didn't feel like a creator.

It turns out: one of my most deeply held values is Freedom. I was not giving myself permission to feel like a creator.

How do your most deeply held values align with your self, and your view of yourself as a creator?

Today I'm taking you into an exercise that's helpful in those times when you feel like you could use a compass to stay centered amidst the disruption. Best of all – you provide the compass! It's in you.

In the today's newsletter I share an exercise in two parts/2 questions:

1. What are your (3 to 5) most deeply held values? What's most important to you, when are you at your most joyful? If it's challenging articulating your values… They'll show up in your responses to those two questions.

2. How does what you create align with your values?

I'd love to hear! Please feel free to share in the comments of this post or, if this shows up directly in your inbox, you can hit reply and write right back :)

What I'm Creating

This coming Thursday 29th of May I am offering a Tarot for Coaches Workshop!For years, I have used tarot cards in my coaching practice. Not to predict the future, but to help the person I'm working with see their blocks and overcome them to build their future.

If you are a coach… Join us!

💡See how I use tarot cards effectively, ask questions, and see what's possible by being in the room at this complimentary session.Message me and I'll send you the zoom link.This session is hosted by the Global Coach Community, so if you are a member click this link on Thursday, 29 May, 5 PM Eastern/2 PM Pacific.

Cheers friends! See you next week,Kay

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

About Kay

I'm Kay! I am a Coach and Creator helping people feel inspired to believe in themselves.

My background is in human development.

I've spent more than 30 years supporting as people of all ages connect, communicate, enjoy their lives and bring about their best and biggest dreams.

What fun!

I am also the creator of art, an award-winning memoir and multiple newsletters for creatives, for leaders, and for inspiration.

I live in Massachusetts with my partner of 29 years, and I am Mom to two amazing young adults.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Hello friends! Welcome to the 8th out of 10 editions of this season of Art Creativity & Wellbeing, the newsletter!Today we're discussing collaboration in art and creativity. Who are collaborators that you admire? Who do you love to collaborate with?

Hope you enjoy!And if you're seeing this in your podcast app and you'd like to subscribe to get future episodes of Art Creativity & Wellbeing right into your inbox, click below..

What I’m Up To

Tarot for Coaches: Complimentary WorkshopFor years I have used tarot cards in my coaching practice.Not to predict the future.Instead to help the person I’m working with see their blocks and get past them to build their future.This will not be a workshop about telling coaches how to get better at coaching. Instead it’s the opportunity, if you are a coach and you’re curious, to:💡See how I use tarot cards effectively🤔Ask questions if you’ve got them🚀See what’s possible for utilizing tarot in your own coaching practice Details:Tarot for CoachesThursday, 29 May 20255 PM-6:30 PM EDTOffered by Coach ✨ Kay Lock Kolp, M.Ed. Hosted by the Global Coach Community ☀️Revitalize and Enjoy Creating Clients and Income🦋Support Your Clients More Playfully and Effectively❤️Deepen Your Own Practice and WellbeingIf you’d like to join, reply to me in your inbox (if that's where you see this) or message me at http://kaylockkolp.com/contact and I will get you the Zoom link.And please share the comments if you’ve got thoughts or ideas or questions.Cheers friends!

Instagram Live Storytime throughout MayMay 1, 2023 was the day I got on an airplane and flew to England to begin my solo cross-country hike of the Coast to Coast path!I'm celebrating that all this month by reading to you from my memoir about this journey, Waking Up!The times are varying, and you can see when I'll be going live next in each Instagram live post in my Instagram feed @weturnedoutokay .

Production Note – While there are swears in the book I am keeping these Instagram lives safe for work and sensitive ears – see you there!

New Art Available in My Store"I keep your painting on the shelf with my mom['s ashes] so she can see something beautiful every day.”This was said to me a few weeks ago and I am changed.

If you are in need of inspiration, or if you'd like to add to your art collection with some of my original works, view my art by clicking here.

Pathfinders Podcast HostI'm honored and excited to share that I have accepted the role of Podcast Host at "the premier platform for changemakers and innovators," Pathfinders.social!

When you think there's no good in the worldWhen you're stuck in a bad energyOr a bad news cycleBoogie on over to PathfindersWhere you will always be inspiredBy the cool things that your fellow humans are up toBy the many ways that humans are creating a better world for everyone.Here is my Pathfinders interviewIf you're doing something cool in the worldHead to Pathfinders.social and add your voiceThen I can interview you!

Sending you lots of love today – Cheers!

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Hello dear friends! I'm excited to share my conversation with a beloved coaching colleague, Heather Egginton. Heather joins us to discuss how it feels to be a millionaire! Recently, Heather's net worth topped $1 million. We discuss how that intersects with her feelings of worth inside herself.

It's a fascinating conversation and Heather brings curiosity herself, inviting me to share about how I came to be writing a book about how it feels to be a millionaire. So for part of our conversation interviewer becomes interviewee!

This conversation will show up in your inbox (if you're subscribed to this publication) or listen in your favorite podcast app!

We'll return to the last few editions of season two's newsletter, about staying creative in disruptive times, next week.Happy Tuesday!

About This Series

This is a podcast series within Art Creativity & Wellbeing and one that I'm excited to share. It's also research for my forthcoming book, How It Feels to be a Millionaire. I've become curious, as I've grown in this way myself, to understand how “worth” and “net worth”intersect for people living in our modern world.Sometimes millionaires do not feel like a million bucks.. Sometimes non-millionaires do. So, what are the commonalities and challenges?

What is there to be learned here about myself, my fellow humans and our world?

I'm excited to discover - and share - the answers and I know one thing, conversations like today's are an important part of how we get there. Joyfully so!

What I’m Up To

Instagram Live Storytime throughout MayMay 1, 2023 was the day I got on an airplane and flew to England to begin my solo cross-country hike of the Coast to Coast path!I'm celebrating that all this month by reading to you from my memoir about this journey, Waking Up!The times are varying, and you can see when I'll be going live next in each Instagram live post in my Instagram feed @weturnedoutokay .

Production Note – While there are swears in the book I am keeping these Instagram lives safe for work and sensitive ears – see you there!

New Art Available in My Store"I keep your painting on the shelf with my mom['s ashes] so she can see something beautiful every day.”This was said to me a few weeks ago and I am changed.

If you are in need of inspiration, or if you'd like to add to your art collection with some of my original works, view my art by clicking here.

Pathfinders Podcast HostI'm honored and excited to share that I have accepted the role of Podcast Host at "the premier platform for changemakers and innovators," Pathfinders.social!

When you think there's no good in the worldWhen you're stuck in a bad energyOr a bad news cycleBoogie on over to PathfindersWhere you will always be inspiredBy the cool things that your fellow humans are up toBy the many ways that humans are creating a better world for everyone.Here is my Pathfinders interviewIf you're doing something cool in the worldHead to Pathfinders.social and add your voiceThen I can interview you!

About this podcast's new home

Practical Intuition with Kay has become Art Creativity & Wellbeing.I am doing a happy dance about this!Seriously if emoji were thing I could do in these show notes you would see so many dancing-people, magic-sparkles, and heart emoji right here

Last summer I started a newsletter called Art Creativity & Wellbeing.

And then things got complicated as I tried to figure out what the newsletter is, what my podcast should focus on – practical intuition felt embedded, and not the focus anymore.

So I've been letting it all kind of rest for winter and early spring.Lo and behold, the next steps just kept showing up and showing up.

Now, we've got a great new home in the Substack app!What this means for youIf you're subscribed in your favorite podcatcher, it's still there.. Or I guess it's still here.If you're subscribed so that these come into your inbox, that'll still happen too.And OH MY GOOD GOLLY, I just checked and all 430+ back episodes of the podcast AND every newsletter I've written since I started this publication are available in the archives!! This is blowing my mind!If you'd like you can subscribe to get this podcast delivered into your inbox -

You'll also get my weekly newsletter and content for subscribers.

It's a very vibrant new home that we have here and – if it's something that you're enjoying – I'm excited to bring you along on this ride :)Thank you for being here with me. See you soon – enjoy this episode!

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Hello friends! It's the second Thursday of the month and that means a great conversation with friend and and now-former colleague Andrew Moss regarding the tools that we developed together as I was training to solo hike across northern England in 2023.This one's about the tool that is really behind all the other tools: “I am not my thoughts.”In today's conversation you'll hear about how this idea has shaped each of our lives and how differently it has shown up for each of us. Andrew and I also each give you a way to try it out if you'd like!

About the Series…

It's really a podcast within a podcast!In these "Waking up: The Tools” conversations Andrew and I discuss the essential tools we developed that helped me transform my experience and grow into the person who hiked all by myself across northern England in 2023… After needing a wheelchair to go more than a few steps in 2011.FYI My hike was taking place exactly 2 years ago right now! To celebrate I am reading from my memoir, Waking Up, throughout May in a series of Instagram lives which you can access here.

We've called this series Waking up: The Tools because they’re featured in my book, Waking Up: How I Grew to Love My Body and My Self While Solo-Hiking Across Northern England (available everywhere you get your audiobooks and Amazon in paperback and e-book format.)

Each Waking Up Tools Conversation is hosted by Pathfinders, the amazing platform that exists to amplify good people doing good work in the world. Andrew is the CEO and cofounder of Pathfinders and shares what it's all about in this episode. Please visit the Pathfinders.social website if you're in need of some hope or inspiration today – and if you're doing good work in the world please click the “Add your voice” button and share about your vision for a better world and what you are doing to bring it about. Here's mine!

Hope you enjoy our conversation!

Find Andrew athttps://pathfinders.social, and find me at https://kaylockkolp.com.

Use the button below to subscribe so that these land right in your inbox, or search Art Creativity & Wellbeing in your favorite podcast app and click the "subscribe" button. That way you'll get them as soon as they drop.

See you soon friends – thank you for being along on the journey. Cheers!With Love, Kay

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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My dudes! TODAY IS THIS PODCAST'S 10TH BIRTHDAY! How did that happen!!

From a show that existed to support parents of young children starting in 2015… To one that celebrates the doers and the dreamers like the one you will hear from today… It has been a wild ride.

For those of you who've been here since the beginning, please know how grateful I am that you've rolled with the changes. You rock! And those of you who are new, or new-ish – welcome! I'm glad you're here. You rock too!

Also we've got a new name and a new home – more about that below!

Best of all we’re kicking it all off with an amazing guest..I have waited so long and now it's finally time to introduce to you – Speech and Language Pathologist Dr. Katrina Miller!

Here's a bit from Katrina's about page. I'm so inspired each and every time I read this..”Dr. Miller’s commitment to communication empowerment spans 25 plus years and has improved the lives of countless patients, as well as the over 300 novice speech-language pathologists she has trained. The daughter of first-generation educators, the value of education was instilled in her as a young person and continues to fuel her drive within her profession. It was within her household that she learned the significance of effective communication and how it could dictate the course of a person’s life and livelihood.”

Katrina shares with us what it's like to found an entire school within a university, how it all came about, and where this journey began for her. It goes deep and gets back to who Katrina is as a person and the importance she sees in fostering human communication.

Join us!

What I’m Up To

Instagram Live Storytime throughout MayMay 1, 2023 was the day I got on an airplane and flew to England to begin my solo cross-country hike of the Coast to Coast path! I'm celebrating that all this month by reading to you from my memoir about this journey, Waking Up!The times are varying, and you can see when I'll be going live next in each Instagram live post in my Instagram feed @weturnedoutokay .

Production Note – While there are swears in the book I am keeping these Instagram lives safe for work and sensitive ears – see you there!

New Art Available in My Store"I keep your painting on the shelf with my mom['s ashes] so she can see something beautiful every day.” This was said to me a few weeks ago and I am changed.

If you are in need of inspiration, or if you'd like to add to your art collection with some of my original works, view my art by clicking here.

Pathfinders Podcast HostI'm honored and excited to share that I have accepted the role of Podcast Host at "the premier platform for changemakers and innovators," Pathfinders.social!

When you think there's no good in the worldWhen you're stuck in a bad energy Or a bad news cycleBoogie on over to PathfindersWhere you will always be inspiredBy the cool things that your fellow humans are up toBy the many ways that humans are creating a better world for everyone.Here is my Pathfinders interview If you're doing something cool in the worldHead to Pathfinders.social and add your voiceThen I can interview you!

About this podcast's new home

Practical Intuition with Kay has become Art Creativity & Wellbeing.I am doing a happy dance about this! Seriously if emoji were thing I could do in these show notes you would see so many dancing-people, magic-sparkles, and heart emoji right here

Last summer I started a newsletter called Art Creativity & Wellbeing.

And then things got complicated as I tried to figure out what the newsletter is, what my podcast should focus on – practical intuition felt embedded, and not the focus anymore.

So I've been letting it all kind of rest for winter and early spring.Lo and behold, the next steps just kept showing up and showing up.

Now, we've got a great new home in the Substack app!What this means for youIf you're subscribed in your favorite podcatcher, it's still there.. Or I guess it's still here.If you're subscribed so that these come into your inbox, that'll still happen too.If you'd like you can subscribe to get this podcast delivered into your inbox -

You'll also get my weekly newsletter and monthly video for subscribers.

It's a very vibrant new home that we have here and – if it's something that you're enjoying – I'm excited to bring you along on this ride :)Thank you for being here with me. See you soon – enjoy this episode!

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Happy April friends! As you'll hear I am creating quite a bit this month, all very joyful and thankfully I have given myself the time and space to do this from a full cup.

Here are two things that are so new, they didn't even make the video!

1. For pretty obvious reasons I called this painting Up On the Roof of the World! It's of a special place in Colorado, and I just completed it this morning. Read more about it here!

2. Book Research Request

Would you like to be interviewed for my next book?

They say that when you learn something, you should pass it on – so, I am writing a book called How It Feels to be a Millionaire!

Fellow millionaires! I would love your input! I’m curious: if you are a millionaire and/or spend a lot of your time feeling like a million bucks, I’d love to interview you.

Click here to go to my contact page, and in your message please share how it feels for you to be a millionaire. I’ll follow up to schedule a chat. And thank you!

I'm curious: what are you up to? What are you creating, what's lighting you up?

Please share! Either in the comments, or simply by hitting reply and sharing with me if this is in your inbox.

And now for the bazillion links

Related to the things I am up to, that I share in the video above :)

Events and Workshops

I have been having lots of fun envisioning ways that we can play together!

Seeds & Self-Discovery: Spring Tarot WorkshopVirtual four week workshop in which we will Plant the seeds of intention (Earth Element), Ignite passion in action (Fire Element), Embrace flow and emotion (Water Element), and finally Celebrate transformation and freedom (Air Element)! I’ve been asked for years to create an adventure/journey where we utilize tarot cards as a group – and this is the moment!$50 for the complete four-week workshop; begins Tuesday April 15, 2025Click here to learn more and register!

Café & Courage: Embracing Your PathIn-person Lunch, Lecture, and Workshop at the epic restaurant Uxlocale in Uxbridge, Massachusetts, on April 19! This is going to be SO MUCH FUN and it would be awesome to see you there, if it aligns geographically and internally for you. $80 includes lunch, lecture, workshop, and unique Journal keepsake11-2, The Uxlocale, April 19, 2025Click here to learn more and register!

Harmony & Hope: Transformative Coaching Opportunities– I am creating an online coaching group if you’d like some company on your journey in a warm place where you feel seen and understood. This group will have lots of ongoing online fun! There will be the companionship of like-minded people who GET it, as well as weekly community calls and a self-directed course on the essential mindset tools I’ve learned on my journey.It’s about a month from opening, so stay tuned!– A one-to-one coaching spot has opened up in my practice.If you’re feeling a little stuck AND you’re open to trying something different to get out of the trap! Message me and let’s explore your future together.

Three Newsletters:

This one – Art Creativity & WellbeingHere's the subscription link if you're new here…

In LinkedIn

The Heart of Leadership.. Exploring our ability to lead in a way that's profoundly human, meaningful, and effective.

The Saturday Salon.. Featuring Epic Writing on Important Topics by Wonderful Leaders, Creators and Organizations

Two Podcasts

What will become Art Creativity & Wellbeing, currently called Practical Intuition with Kay… Available wherever you get your podcasts

The Waking Up Podcast… Available either at its Substack page or in Spotify! With more places coming soon.

Waking Up: The Tools Conversation

THIS COMING Thursday April 10 at 12 noon Eastern time – hooray! The LinkedIn live will be live on this page in LinkedIn…

My Pathfinders Interview

And here is my Pathfinders interview!

What a month!

I'm wishing you a really great April.

Lots of love and talk soon!Kay

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Hello friends! I hope you've been enjoying yourselves as we have been on our hiatus! It's been a little longer of a hiatus than I had originally intended. Sometimes life throws curveballs, and there've been some fascinating curveballs in these last several months! I hope to share about them with you soon!

We are on hiatus for a little longer, but behind the scenes I have been having some epic conversations with the folks you'll be hearing from today!

They are, in the order you will hear them:

Speech and Language pathologist Dr. Katrina Miller
Therapist and former First Responder Bill Dwinnells
Author and Anthology Creator Gail Clanton
Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Author Janine Halloran
Author and Entrepreneur Mike Michalowicz
Founder and COO of Pathfinders.social Jeff Lamb

You're also getting a sneak peek at the intro and outro for the newest iteration of the show, even though in the feed it's still called Practical Intuition with Kay. There will be new artwork too! I am sooooo excited to share it all with you.
Want to hear something crazy? This show is 10 years old on May 1! I'll aim to have it out in its new iteration by then.

In the meantime I am wishing you so very well!
Lots of love,
Kay

Lots of places to find me!
Coaching | Art | Writing | Podcasts: https://kaylockkolp.com

Award-winning memoir.. Waking Up: How I Grew to Love My Body and Myself While Solo-Hiking Across Northern England.. https://amzn.to/3VlbEak
And wherever you get your audiobooks

Newsletter for Creatives: https://kaylockkolp.substack.com
Newsletter for Leaders: https://bit.ly/4gOfqT5

Podcast: Practical Intuition with Kay
In your favorite podcast app
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weturnedoutokay/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kay-lock-kolp/

The quote I live by: “It’s such a good feeling, to know you’re alive.“ – Fred Rogers

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Hello friends! I hope March is starting off very well for you! What are you up to creatively?I see that I have been feeling better by creating.Late last year I decided to spend at least one hour per day in what I think of as "creative enjoyment." This is everything from taking a walk or hike – or over the last week or so, getting out to go skiing where I'm staying with my parents in the Colorado Rockies – to creating art, writing, making fun stuff!

The rule has been that it's not about consuming somebody else's creations. It's about doing something creative from a place of enjoyment.

Here's what I have been working on!

This newsletter, Art Creativity & Wellbeing

A newsletter published in LinkedIn for leaders, The Heart of Leadership <3

A new podcast! It's called The Waking Up Podcast and you can find it presently either in Spotify, or right into your inbox

A group for those who would enjoy some company on the adventure of life

Some really fun chats with my friend and colleague Coach Andrew Moss about the tools that we created together as I was training to do my hike across England

(You can be with us live during the recordings, which take place the second Thursday of every month. The next one will be Thursday, 13 March. They are generously hosted by Pathfinders.social in LinkedIn! Click here for the Pathfinders page so you can join our upcoming conversation!)

Then finally, coming up on 19 April a live pop up coffeehouse at which I'll be the featured guest!

What about you - what’re you up to?

In a time when there has been a lot of opportunity to get pulled off my place of center, these creative enjoyments have really kept me feeling positive and open about the future.

Which makes me super curious! What have you been creating lately? Please share, either here in the comments or just hit reply and share from your inbox to mine.

I am wishing you well! See you next week for another newsletter edition and in early April with another video like today's.

Cheers –Kay

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Hello, friends, and welcome to Art, Creativity and Wellbeing!

I'm really glad you're here!

Today I’m sharing:

• What I’m up to creatively

• What’s new here at Art Creativity & Wellbeing

• My curiosity about what YOU’RE up to creatively :)

One thing that’s new!

I decided to give everyone the opportunity to view everything, whatever your situation is, and regardless of whether you choose to support me or my work.

There's this interesting idea that I read a while ago in a book.. Information wants to be free.

And I feel like that's kind of what we do here, right? I share out some information and I would love for that to be available for everyone who would like to read or watch it or listen to it.

And then those of you who choose to support my work financially - that is so appreciated! It makes it possible for me to do what I do here. Here’s the link if you would like to see more about ways you can support me.

I'm really super grateful for it.

And I feel so grateful for you free subscribing folks too.

It's an honor to have you pay attention to my work and me, in whatever form that takes for you.

Another new thing!

Schedule change - I’m sharing our regular weekly newsletter each Tuesday, and then a video each month like today’s about what I am working on currently.. read on if you’d like to see one project where my creative brain has gone in the last couple weeks!

And a fun new publication.. the first edition was/will be printed in 2035!

(If that’s a bit confusing I do share more about this in the video.)

Please share!

Soooo.. that’s me.

Well, except for the changes to my podcast, which I forgot to share about in the video and which will keep until March!

I’m curious, what are you up to creatively?

I’d love to hear!

See you tomorrow for our regularly scheduled newsletter!

Love,Kay

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Hello my darlings! This is the final installment of our study of The Relationship Handbook: A Simple Guide to Satisfying Relationships by George Pransky, a super influential book for me personally, and (as we've gone along in this book study) a super helpful one for many of you as well.

We are talking today about the Addenda to the 25th anniversary edition – in which George along with his wife Linda shares about their own marital challenges and triumphs. It's a really special end to an amazing and inspiring book!

Link for the book in all formats: https://www.amazon.com/Relationship-Handbook-Satisfying-Relationships-Anniversary/dp/0998874205

This is also the FIRST installment of Art Creativity & Wellbeing, the podcast!! Same bat time and same bat channel – with a slightly different focus and an opening up to the possibilities that art, creativity, and well-being bring to our enjoyment of life.

I'm glad you're here along for the ride. It means a lot!

And I'll see you the second Tuesday in January with the first of lots of great conversations, which will be the focus of 2025.

Some of you may know about my weekly share, which is also called Art Creativity & Wellbeing!
If you'd like to see the most recent installment, click here: https://kaylockkolp.substack.com .

Find me at https://kaylockkolp.com
Contact page = https://www.kaylockkolp.com/contact/
LinkedIn = https://www.linkedin.com/in/kay-lock-kolp/
And Instagram @weturnedoutokay

I am excited for all that is to come.. Happy new year!!

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Hello friends! Happy holidays!! I hope you get some enjoyment time, some downtime, and some fun time over the next couple weeks and I’ll see you next year!!

Love, love, love,Kay

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Hello my darlings! We're continuing to study The Relationship Handbook: A Simple Guide to Satisfying Relationships by George Pransky, a book that's been helpful for me in coaching and in my life.

We are talking about chapters 14 and 15 – some great and meaningful ideas in these chapters!

Link for the book in all formats: https://www.amazon.com/Relationship-Handbook-Satisfying-Relationships-Anniversary/dp/0998874205

If you've got questions, comments, or ideas about these chapters – or the Addenda to the 25th anniversary edition, which we will talk about a on the last day of the year – get in touch!

Find me at https://kaylockkolp.com
Contact page = https://www.kaylockkolp.com/contact/
LinkedIn = https://www.linkedin.com/in/kay-lock-kolp/
And Instagram @weturnedoutokay

New episodes the first and third Tuesdays in October, November, and December… As we progress through our read together.
Next up: on Tuesday, December 31 will be discussing chapters the addenda to the 25th anniversary edition.
I'm excited!

Also! I create a weekly share called Art Creativity & Wellbeing, and if you'd like to see the most recent installment, click here: https://kaylockkolp.substack.com .

Cheers and see you next time!

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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"The Law of the Universe is that you receive back that which you put your focus and attention on. So be very careful what you choose to put your focus and attention on.”

– Coach Andrew Moss, in a mic drop moment that was essential in my training to become the person who solo-hiked across northern England in 2023 :)This week's Art creativity & well-being takes you into this tool a little bit deeper!And shares an experience that I had this past autumn which illustrated the law of the universe as nothing else could.I hope you enjoy this installment of our Autumn Curriculum! December is all about showing up how we want to… For ourselves, and for others.The last installment will drop the third Thursday of December… in the meantime I hope you are well and happy.Cheers!Kay

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Gifts and fun! My 2nd annual Grateful Art Sale is happening right now – 50% off every work on my website through Thursday, December 12, 2024
Come take a look! At https://kaylockkolp.com/art
I am grateful for you : )

Hello dear ones! We're reading The Relationship Handbook: A Simple Guide to Satisfying Relationships by George Pransky, a book that's been helpful for me in coaching and in my life.

We are talking about chapters 12 and 13 – hard to believe how quickly our book studies going!

Link for the book in all formats: https://www.amazon.com/Relationship-Handbook-Satisfying-Relationships-Anniversary/dp/0998874205

If you've got questions, comments, or ideas about these chapters – or 14 and 15 which we will talk about a little later in December – get in touch!

Find me at https://kaylockkolp.com

Contact page = https://www.kaylockkolp.com/contact/
LinkedIn = https://www.linkedin.com/in/kay-lock-kolp/
And Instagram @weturnedoutokay

New episodes the first and third Tuesdays in October, November, and December… As we progress through our read together.
Next up: on Tuesday, December 17 will be discussing chapters 14 and 15.
I'm excited!

Also! I create a weekly share called Art Creativity & Wellbeing, and if you'd like to see the most recent installment, click here: https://kaylockkolp.substack.com .

Cheers and see you next time!

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Hello hello friends! We're reading The Relationship Handbook: A Simple Guide to Satisfying Relationships by George Pransky, a book that's been helpful for me in coaching and in my life.

We are talking about chapters 9, 10, and 11 – we are flying through this book!

Link for the book in all formats: https://www.amazon.com/Relationship-Handbook-Satisfying-Relationships-Anniversary/dp/0998874205

If you've got questions, comments, or ideas about these chapters – or 12 and 13 which we will talk about in December – get in touch!

Find me at https://kaylockkolp.com
Contact page = https://www.kaylockkolp.com/contact/
LinkedIn = https://www.linkedin.com/in/kay-lock-kolp/
And Instagram @weturnedoutokay

New episodes the first and third Tuesdays in October, November, and December… As we progress through our read together.
Next up: on Tuesday, December 3 will be discussing chapters 12 and 13.
I'm excited!

Also! I create a weekly share called Art Creativity & Wellbeing, and if you'd like to see the most recent installment, click here: https://kaylockkolp.substack.com . Cheers and see you next time!

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Greetings! In this module of our Autumn Curriculum – which, while ordinarily for the paid supporters, I'm sharing with everyone in case a tool for feeling okay inside might be helpful for you right now – is about becoming aware of the self talk within.I've heard this self talk referred to as the psyche, and my favorite term: the "inner roommate."

However we think of this entity, it's good to be aware of because once we can observe, it means we can pause and respond rather than reacting to events in a knee-jerk way.

I'm curious if you utilize this tool already? Or if you've got questions as you give it a try?

I'm here if so.

Sending you lots of hugs and positive energy, today and every day.

Thank you for being here! If you think this might be useful for someone in your world, please feel free to share it with them.

So much love,Kay

Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe

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Greetings, fun seekers! We're reading The Relationship Handbook: A Simple Guide to Satisfying Relationships by George Pransky, a book that's been helpful for me in coaching and in my life.

We are talking about chapters 6, 7, and 8 – woo hoo!

Link for the book in all formats: https://www.amazon.com/Relationship-Handbook-Satisfying-Relationships-Anniversary/dp/0998874205

If you've got questions, comments, or ideas about these chapters – or 9, 10, and 11 which we will talk about in later in November – get in touch! Find me at https://kaylockkolp.com Contact page = https://www.kaylockkolp.com/contact/ LinkedIn = https://www.linkedin.com/in/kay-lock-kolp/ And Instagram @weturnedoutokay

New episodes the first and third Tuesdays in October, November, and December… As we progress through our read together. Next up: on Tuesday, November 19 we'll be discussing chapters 9, 10, and 11. I'm excited!

Also! I create a weekly share called Art Creativity & Wellbeing, and if you'd like to see the most recent installment, click here: https://kaylockkolp.substack.com . Cheers and see you next time!

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Welcome to the second installment of our first ever book-read – we'll spend the rest of this year reading a book together! I've chosen The Relationship Handbook: A Simple Guide to Satisfying Relationships by George Pransky, a book that's been helpful for me in coaching and in my life.

I share today about an experiment I tried recently that more than proves the adage that what we focus on grows – and it's interesting because I did not associate the challenges coming up for me (and boy did they multiply) with the experiment itself. So I kept plugging away and… Well, I share what happened in today's episode.

We are talking about chapters 3, 4, and 5 – woo hoo!

Link for the book in all formats: https://www.amazon.com/Relationship-Handbook-Satisfying-Relationships-Anniversary/dp/0998874205

If you've got questions, comments, or ideas about these chapters – or 6, 7, and 8 which we will talk about in Novembet – get in touch! Find me at https://kaylockkolp.com Contact page = https://www.kaylockkolp.com/contact/ LinkedIn = https://www.linkedin.com/in/kay-lock-kolp/ And Instagram @weturnedoutokay

New episodes the first and third Tuesdays in October, November, and December… As we progress through our read together. Next up: on Tuesday, November 4 we'll be discussing chapters 6, 7, and 8. I'm excited!

Also! I create a weekly share called Art Creativity & Wellbeing, and if you'd like to see the most recent installment, click here: https://kaylockkolp.substack.com . Cheers and see you next time!

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Welcome to the first installment of our first ever book-read – we'll spend the rest of this year reading a book together! I've chosen The Relationship Handbook: A Simple Guide to Satisfying Relationships by George Pransky, a book that's been helpful for me in coaching and in my life.

In this episode we talk about chapters 1 and 2 – woo hoo!

Link for the book in all formats: https://www.amazon.com/Relationship-Handbook-Satisfying-Relationships-Anniversary/dp/0998874205

If you've got questions, comments, or ideas about these chapters – or 3, 4, and 5 which we will talk about later in October – get in touch! Find me at https://kaylockkolp.com Contact page = https://www.kaylockkolp.com/contact/ LinkedIn = https://www.linkedin.com/in/kay-lock-kolp/ And Instagram @weturnedoutokay

New episodes the first and third Tuesdays in October, November, and December… As we progress through our read together. Next up: on Tuesday, October 15 we'll be discussing chapters 3, 4, and 5. I'm excited!

Also! I create a weekly share called Art Creativity & Wellbeing, and over there this autumn we're diving into the Tools That Have Been Helpful For Me - seven important principles that I share about in my memoir, Waking Up.

During these next 3 months I'm going to take you into the seven key tools that have been helpful for me on my journey.

We'll explore together through a deep dive series of videos for AC&W paid supporters which will be released every other Thursday starting October third – plus Halloween.

All you supporters are amazing… I'm so grateful for your attention! Whether free or paid you'll always have access to my weekly art share, which during autumn will embrace these seven principles.

And if you'd like to be a part of the deep dive, you can do that by becoming a paid subscriber to Art Creativity & Wellbeing – I'm offering 40% off your subscription if you redeem by Tuesday, October 8.

Come along on a joyful journey of discovery As we utilize the tools I have found helpful And see what they create for you!

With love and gratitude, Kay

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Hello friends - there's some fun stuff going on around here this autumn!

To start with, on this show we'll spend the rest of this year reading a book together! I've chosen The Relationship Handbook: A Simple Guide to Satisfying Relationships by George Pransky, a book that's been helpful for me in coaching and in my life.

This book also brings me right back to the most important principles of relating to other humans… And who couldn't use a little bit more of that right now?

On Tuesday, October 1 we will talk about chapters 1 and 2, so grab a copy of this fantastic book and we will get reading!

Link for the book in all formats: https://www.amazon.com/Relationship-Handbook-Satisfying-Relationships-Anniversary/dp/0998874205

New episodes the first and third Tuesdays in October, November, and December… As we progress through our read together. I'm excited!

Also! I create a weekly share called Art Creativity & Wellbeing, and over there this autumn we're diving into the Tools That Have Been Helpful For Me - seven important principles that I share about in my memoir, Waking Up.

During these next 3 months I'm going to take you into the seven key tools that have been helpful for me on my journey.

For my weekly Tuesday art share we'll dive into these tools.

But the real fun will be deeper in the Art Creativity & Wellbeing community! Paid subscribers will join me in exploring these tools in the following ways:

October: We'll explore the tools that help us stop carrying everybody else's problems/making them our own

November: We'll explore helpful ways of thinking about our self-talk, our psyche

December: We'll explore how to show up the way we want to show up… For ourselves and others.

Come join me in exploring the mechanisms that helped me overcome challenges With my physical body With my identity and sexual orientation With claiming support and resources so that I could live the life I really wanted to be living.

We'll explore together through a deep dive series of videos for AC&W paid supporters which will be released every other Thursday starting October third – plus Halloween.

All you supporters are amazing… I'm so grateful for your attention! Whether free or paid you'll always have access to my weekly art share, which during autumn will embrace these seven principles.

And if you'd like to be a part of the deep dive, you can do that by becoming a paid subscriber to Art Creativity & Wellbeing – I'm offering 40% off your subscription if you redeem by Tuesday, October 8.

Come along on a joyful journey of discovery As we utilize the tools I have found helpful And see what they create for you!

With love and gratitude, Kay

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Born and raised in India, today's guest, amazing artist Priya Gore of https://www.priyagore.art/ , is now based in Australia. Along with her husband and their young daughter, Priya lives a life of joyful exploration. Throughout her life she has busted through the expectations of what someone in her position "should" do and instead chose for herself. In our conversation today, Priya shares about some wonderful role models and opportunities she's had as she's grown into herself, her art, and her life. I am so excited to introduce you to this beautiful human. Join us! Important Program Note: we'll spend the rest of this year reading a book together! I've chosen The Relationship Handbook: A Simple Guide to Satisfying Relationships by George Pransky, a book that's been helpful for me in coaching and in my life.

This book also brings me right back to the most important principles of relating to other humans… And who couldn't use a little bit more of that right now? On Tuesday, October 1 we will talk about chapters 1 and 2, so grab a copy of this fantastic book and we will get reading! Link for the book in all formats: https://www.amazon.com/Relationship-Handbook-Satisfying-Relationships-Anniversary/dp/0998874205

New episodes the first and third Tuesdays in October, November, and December… As we progress through our read together. I'm excited! Links Where You Can Find Me:

Art Creativity & Wellbeing (for weekly art shares and a whole curriculum teaching on the 7 Tools I've Found Helpful On My Learning Journey, beginning October 3!) https://kaylockkolp.substack.com/

My website: https://www.kaylockkolp.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weturnedoutokay/

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We are ALL leaders. How are we leading, is the big question. Is it how the leaders we love lead?

I am excited to share about something special that a beloved colleague and I are cooking up this autumn: a leadership development experience!

In this episode I take you into one module of the program: The Upside-Down Leadership Model.

Enjoy!

LINKS..

KPL Information Session coming up on Wed. 11 September: https://bit.ly/KPLInfoSesh2

Kickass Purposeful Leader Experience Page: https://bit.ly/KPLexperience

Art Creativity & Wellbeing (for weekly art shares and a whole curriculum teaching on the 7 Tools I've Found Helpful On My Learning Journey, beginning October 3!) https://kaylockkolp.substack.com/

Share what makes you feel good: https://kaylockkolp.com/contact

Here is a bit about who the KPL experience is for!

The 10-week Kickass Purposeful Leader (KPL) Experience will support leaders who:

🌿Feel pressure to get the work done, and also want to do right by the people they manage.

🌾 Support others as best they can… And understand that it’s taking a toll on their own well-being. 🪺Don’t have full buy-in from their team and want to get better at inspiring that. 🌳Dream BIG and want to bring those dreams into reality.. While supporting themselves and their families, and feeling good inside themselves.

We’re kicking things off with an info session on Wednesday, September 11!

The info session is free to attend – sign up today to see how this program can help you - or a friend, colleague, or member of your team - lead with purpose and confidence.

The 10-week KPL Experience is offered by Patricia Burlaud PhD, Executive Coach & Founder of P. Burlaud Consulting and Kay Lock Kolp, M.Ed., High-Performance Coach & Founder of Kay Lock Kolp Coaching.

We'll be at the information session ready to answer all your questions and share about the experience. Can't wait!

Info session signup: https://bit.ly/KPLInfoSesh2

Experience registration: https://bit.ly/KPLexperience

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Hello friends! Bringing you something a little different this summer, bite-size episodes that you can enjoy with a little more frequency than usual.

Celebrating Skipper Mike Miller and AQP Lottie Wade, the amazing leadership duo of the racing yacht PSP Logistics in the Clipper Round the World Race! What fun to sit down in conversation with them, ON the boat!

YouTube Playlist for this series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBqS3lNqXHd23YZ6mtYCvHhKx10SgcTkf

Clipper Race website: https://www.clipperroundtheworld.com/

The PSP's team hub: https://www.clipperroundtheworld.com/team/psp-worldwide-logistics/team-hub

On on friends!

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Hello friends! Bringing you something a little different this summer, bite-size episodes that you can enjoy with a little more frequency than usual.

Celebrating Mark Hagan, crew on the racing yacht PSP Logistics in the Clipper Round the World Race! What fun to sit down in conversation with him, ON the boat!

YouTube Playlist for this series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBqS3lNqXHd23YZ6mtYCvHhKx10SgcTkf

Clipper Race website: https://www.clipperroundtheworld.com/

The PSP's team hub: https://www.clipperroundtheworld.com/team/psp-worldwide-logistics/team-hub

On on friends!

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Hello friends! Bringing you something a little different this summer, bite-size episodes that you can enjoy with a little more frequency than usual.

Celebrating Ronaldo Souza, crew on the racing yacht PSP Logistics in the Clipper Round the World Race! What fun to sit down in conversation with him, ON the boat!

YouTube Playlist for this series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBqS3lNqXHd23YZ6mtYCvHhKx10SgcTkf

Clipper Race website: https://www.clipperroundtheworld.com/

The PSP's team hub: https://www.clipperroundtheworld.com/team/psp-worldwide-logistics/team-hub

On on friends!

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Hello friends! Bringing you something a little different this summer, bite-size episodes that you can enjoy with a little more frequency than usual.

Celebrating Lisa Franklin and Andrew Moss, crew on the racing yacht PSP Logistics in the Clipper Round the World Race! I felt so honored to be able to sit down in conversation with them, ON the boat in Washington, DC, USA.. just before they raced across the north Atlantic to Oban, Scotland in the final leg of the race!

YouTube Playlist for this series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBqS3lNqXHd23YZ6mtYCvHhKx10SgcTkf

Clipper Race website: https://www.clipperroundtheworld.com/

The PSP's team hub: https://www.clipperroundtheworld.com/team/psp-worldwide-logistics/team-hub

On on friends!

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Hello friends! Bringing you something a little different this summer, bite-size episodes that you can enjoy with a little more frequency than usual.

Celebrating Joe Govier and Charlie Whewell, crew on the racing yacht PSP Logistics in the Clipper Round the World Race! I felt so honored to be able to sit down in conversation with them, ON the boat in Washington, DC, USA.. just before they raced across the north Atlantic to Oban, Scotland in the final leg of the race!

YouTube Playlist for this series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBqS3lNqXHd23YZ6mtYCvHhKx10SgcTkf

Clipper Race website: https://www.clipperroundtheworld.com/

The PSP's team hub: https://www.clipperroundtheworld.com/team/psp-worldwide-logistics/team-hub

On on friends!

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*Sensitive ears alert! An F bomb happen in all the excitement as we recorded!

Hello friends! Bringing you something a little different this summer, bite-size episodes that you can enjoy with a little more frequency than usual.

Celebrating Kate Frischkorn and Brian Arnold, crew on the racing yacht PSP Logistics in the Clipper Round the World Race! I felt so honored to be able to sit down in conversation with them, ON the boat in Washington, DC, USA.. just before they raced across the north Atlantic to Oban, Scotland in the final leg of the race!

YouTube Playlist for this series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBqS3lNqXHd23YZ6mtYCvHhKx10SgcTkf

Clipper Race website: https://www.clipperroundtheworld.com/

The PSP's team hub: https://www.clipperroundtheworld.com/team/psp-worldwide-logistics/team-hub

On on friends!

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Hello friends! Bringing you something a little different this summer, bite-size episodes that you can enjoy with a little more frequency than usual.

Over these next few episodes, you'll get to hear from my friend and former coach, Andrew Moss! We had the opportunity to sit down together in June in Washington DC. That's where my book tour took me, and it was such fun to meet Andrew in person while he was there as part of his sailing race around the world.

Andrew suggested that we record a conversation together focused on my new book, Waking Up – since, as he shares somewhere in here, "we are two of the characters who show up with some frequency!"

This is the fourth installment you'll get to hear - it is from the podcast that Andrew and I create together about his journey around the world, Where in the World is Andrew Moss?

Hope you enjoy. Happy summer!

Thank you for being along on this journey with me. I appreciate you!

Waking Up, my new memoir, in paperback: https://amzn.to/3VlbEak

Art Creativity & Wellbeing, my letter that goes into peoples' inboxes: https://kaylockkolp.substack.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weturnedoutokay/

LinkedIn: Search 'Kay Lock Kolp'

And you can find me at https://kaylockkolp.com.. Wishing you well until next time! Love, Kay

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Hello friends! Bringing you something a little different this summer, bite-size episodes that you can enjoy with a little more frequency than usual.

Over these next few episodes, you'll get to hear from my friend and former coach, Andrew Moss! We had the opportunity to sit down together a few weeks ago in Washington DC. That's where my book tour took me, and it was such fun to meet Andrew in person while he was there as part of his sailing race around the world.

Andrew suggested that we record a conversation together focused on my new book, Waking Up – since, as he shares somewhere in here, "we are two of the characters who show up with some frequency!"

I have divided our conversation into three parts, and the fourth installment you'll get to hear is from the podcast that Andrew and I create together about his journey around the world, Where in the World is Andrew Moss?

Hope you enjoy. Happy summer!

Thank you for being along on this journey with me. I appreciate you!

Waking Up, my new memoir, in paperback: https://amzn.to/3VlbEak

Art Creativity & Wellbeing, my letter that goes into peoples' inboxes: https://kaylockkolp.substack.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weturnedoutokay/

LinkedIn: Search 'Kay Lock Kolp'

And you can find me at https://kaylockkolp.com.. Wishing you well until next time! Love, Kay

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Hello friends! Bringing you something a little different this summer, bite-size episodes that you can enjoy with a little more frequency than usual.

Over these next few episodes, you'll get to hear from my friend and former coach, Andrew Moss! We had the opportunity to sit down together a few weeks ago in Washington DC. That's where my book tour took me, and it was such fun to meet Andrew in person while he was there as part of his sailing race around the world.

Andrew suggested that we record a conversation together focused on my new book, Waking Up – since, as he shares somewhere in here, "we are two of the characters who show up with some frequency!"

I have divided our conversation into three parts, and the fourth installment you'll get to hear is from the podcast that Andrew and I create together about his journey around the world, Where in the World is Andrew Moss?

Hope you enjoy. Happy summer!

Thank you for being along on this journey with me. I appreciate you!

Waking Up, my new memoir, in paperback: https://amzn.to/3VlbEak

Art Creativity & Wellbeing, my letter that goes into peoples' inboxes: https://kaylockkolp.substack.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weturnedoutokay/

LinkedIn: Search 'Kay Lock Kolp'

And you can find me at https://kaylockkolp.com.. Wishing you well until next time! Love, Kay

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Hello friends! Bringing you something a little different this summer, bite-size episodes that you can enjoy with a little more frequency than usual.

Over these next few episodes, you'll get to hear from my friend and former coach, Andrew Moss! We had the opportunity to sit down together a few weeks ago in Washington DC. That's where my book tour took me, and it was such fun to meet Andrew in person while he was there as part of his sailing race around the world.

Andrew suggested that we record a conversation together focused on my new book, Waking Up – since, as he shares somewhere in here, "we are two of the characters who show up with some frequency!"

I have divided our conversation into three parts, and the fourth installment you'll get to hear is from the podcast that Andrew and I create together about his journey around the world, Where in the World is Andrew Moss?

Hope you enjoy. Happy summer!

Thank you for being along on this journey with me. I appreciate you!

Waking Up, my new memoir, in paperback: https://amzn.to/3VlbEak

Art Creativity & Wellbeing, my letter that goes into peoples' inboxes: https://kaylockkolp.substack.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weturnedoutokay/

LinkedIn: Search 'Kay Lock Kolp'

And you can find me at https://kaylockkolp.com.. Wishing you well until next time! Love, Kay

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Hello friends! I am just back from an inspiring and fun trip, traveling from Massachusetts to Washington, DC, with stops in between in New York State, Pennsylvania, and then back to New York!

I learned a lot about myself on this book tour/visit with folks I've only ever known virtually and got to meet in person/solo art retreat. I am excited to share with you!

Thank you for being along on this journey with me. I appreciate you!

Links I share in this episode:

Waking Up, my new memoir, in paperback: https://amzn.to/3VlbEak

Art Creativity & Wellbeing, my letter that goes into peoples' inboxes: https://kaylockkolp.substack.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weturnedoutokay/

LinkedIn: Search 'Kay Lock Kolp'

And you can find me at https://kaylockkolp.com.. Wishing you well until next time! Love, Kay

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Hello friends! I am excited to introduce you to my friend Tom Mattox, a coach and artist who has a beautiful, gentle and open approach to creating art and living life. I hope you enjoy our conversation!

Find Tom (and his lovely postcard paintings, which he's happy to send one to you if you wish, I have one :) here: https://www.instagram.com/tom.mattox/

And you can find me at https://kaylockkolp.com.. Wishing you well until next time! Love, Kay

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Important note: I'm fine and the podcast is not ending! This episode's title was said - unironically, because that's who she is - by a beloved colleague of mine in her last-ever posting in social media. During today's episode you'll find out more about her.

Also, friend-of-the-podcast Janine Halloran has invited me to be the guest expert in her wonderful Community Hub! Janine writes: "Kay's second book, Waking Up, is about her identity shift from a helicopter parent (living for everybody else) to becoming her whole, strong, unapologetic and true self. "We'll discuss our well-being and how much more supportive we are for others when we are in a place well-being ourselves. This is not easy to accomplish… We'll talk about what that could look like in our complex modern lives. "There will be time for Q&A at the end – join us live so you can ask Kay your questions!"

Here is the registration link for the event: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/876647284627?aff=oddtdtcreator

Thank you for listening! Lots of love and gratitude to you from me :) Kay

Find me at https://kaylockkolp.com And Instagram @weturnedoutokay PS Today I ask a question "What is the last thing you'd like to share out with the world?" I'd love to hear – drop me a line kaylockkolp.com/contact

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Hi friends! You are in for treat with my guest today! Monique Giroux is on a joyful and fascinating journey, traveling the globe and being open to the experiences and connections that come her way.

Plus she's been on a writing journey! Monique's book is due out in June and you get to hear all about it and the extremely cool way that it came into being during our chat today.

You can find Monique at her everything button: https://linktr.ee/flourishment And you can find me at https://kaylockkolp.com.. Wishing you well until next time! Love, Kay

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In my inner toolkit there are several ways to get back into alignment with myself and restore inner peace... THIS one takes first prize in importance.

Thank you for listening! Lots of love and gratitude to you from me :) Kay

Find me at https://kaylockkolp.com And Instagram @weturnedoutokay

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Hi friends! I am SO excited to share this conversation with teacher, coach, and entrepreneur Gary Marcus Judge. Gary and I met when he invited me onto his show, BeWell - here's the link https://youtu.be/FmgIuUrsaEs?si=hwBOQsYrCUogm-Qi - to talk about "decision making from the heart."

That, I think, is where Gary's strength lies - in being along on the journey with others, inviting collaboration and sharing from his heart.

I hope you enjoy my conversation with this genuine, warm, and helpful human being. Here's the link to the video in YouTube.. https://youtu.be/BqrtRLbbxhs You can find Gary at https://garymarcusjudge.com/en/ And you can find me at https://kaylockkolp.com.. Wishing you well until next time! Love, Kay

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TRIGGER WARNING: Suicide is a big theme in this episode and if that's not your jam, feel free to skip this one.. Lots of love to you and we'll see you next time!

It's February 1st 2024 - the first anniversary of the day I gave serious thought to ending my life.

Here's what happened.

If you're in a tough place, I hope this episode is helpful for you.. and please share it if you think it'll resonate for someone in your own life.

Lots of love and gratitude to you from me :) Kay

Find me at https://kaylockkolp.com And Instagram @weturnedoutokay

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Hi friends! I am SO excited to share this conversation with my friend - and wonderful coach - Brian Bogert.. We are kindred spirits and I am excited for you to hear from him! Here's the link to the video in YouTube.. https://youtu.be/hOtjq-hN7c8 You can find Brian at https://www.brianbogert.com/ And you can find me at https://kaylockkolp.com.. Wishing you well until next time! Love, Kay

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Happy new year friends! Today I'm bringing you three tools that I'm using to create a really good year! Here's the video in YouTube (if you'd like to see my floral garland) https://youtu.be/Kgw6k1wJZL0?si=-75FHFRaTos6ggE8

Lots of love and gratitude to you from me :) Kay

Find me at https://kaylockkolp.com And Instagram @weturnedoutokay

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Hi friends! This is a special episode sharing the latest in a new series I've been creating with Andrew Moss, my friend and colleague, about his journey traveling around the whole world in a sailboat!

In this episode our favorite ocean sailor brings us a conversation that feels perfect for reflecting, looking out into the future, and seeing what’s possible in our own lives. Join us! Deets: Find Where in the World is Andrew Moss? in your favorite podcatcher and in: YouTube: https://bit.ly/45qHRjN Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3M8lpVL Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3FtTHiB Today Andrew answers quite a few great questions from members of the Climb Aboard Andrew’s Adventure Facebook group - thank you Karin, Angele, Taras, Ashley and Ian! Jump in to the group for a front row seat to Andrew's adventure!

He also describes the awesome – in the greatest sense of the word – experience of being in nature and the wildlife that he’s encountering…

And takes us deep into what he’s really working on right now in his own growth during this circumnavigation of the globe. (Oh yeah - plus Andrew gives us the scoop on the boat's current game of Assassin!) It’s a conversation to truly savor. So grab a favorite beverage or take us out on your favorite walk.. And give over to the enjoyment of hearing about this most recent leg of Andrew Moss’s experience competing in the Clipper Round the World Race!

A Front Row Seat: ~ Tons of fun race-related links at Andrew's website, http://coachandrewmoss.com

~ Join Andrew's 'Climb Aboard My Adventure' Facebook group, https://www.facebook.com/groups/andrewsailingadventure Donate if You're Inspired: ~ Help Andrew cover some of the expenses of his year at sea - and away from his beloved coaching practice, https://www.gofundme.com/f/xqqbkk-help-andrew-fulfill-his-dream

~ Contribute to Andrew’s boat’s UNICEF fundraiser here, https://www.justgiving.com/team/teamcr03 ~ PS There's a really cool picture of Skipper Mike on the fundraising page!

Next Up: Stay tuned for the next episode, the first of 2024! Happy new year!!

Safe and joyful travels Andrew, and everyone, until then :)

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Hi friends! Today is a conversation that I have been so looking forward to sharing with you! In it I get to talk with Frederick Buskey, a creator, author and educator who has lots of good ideas on supporting others. (Which often come down to how we can be a good support for ourselves : ) Here's the link to the video in YouTube.. https://youtu.be/tYHRiHelTlY You can find Frederick at his Assistant Principal Podcast and at https://frederickbuskey.com. And you can find me at https://kaylockkolp.com.. Wishing you well until next time! Love, Kay

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I am thrilled to share my conversation with Dr. Pamela Ellis today! Dr. Pamela goes deep in our conversation, sharing about early experiences and how they have shaped her into the person she is today… Someone truly passionate about getting helping young adults be on the path of their true choice. Enjoy! So much love, Kay Here’s the link to Dr. Pamela’s website… https://compasscollegeadvisory.com/ Here is our conversation on video: https://youtu.be/U6oer6q8Jio And I want to say thank you and share a story in these notes today. So here goes! Thank You Two years ago I began asking myself the question, “Who gets to decide if I’m an artist or not“ Lots of listeners and viewers of this show have supported me as I have seen that the answer is, “Me!” I get to decide. Now I joyfully share my art out with gratitude and love And that is what I receive back. Early on this art journey a friend and beloved colleague shook up my thinking When he shared his frustration with the “starving artist“ stereotype. I began dreaming about creating art and joyfully sharing it out… And what if that art could support me and my family? What a fun journey to be on I’m so grateful in my heart for all the support. And I’m offering that gratitude out in a sale! 50% savings on all my paintings now through November 30 So if you’ve had your eye on a Kay Or if you’d like to give the gift of my original fine art to loved ones Now is your opportunity Link is https://bit.ly/kayartsale2023 THANK YOU for helping me realize this dream With love, Kay

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Hi friends, today I recorded a conversation with Frederick Buskey, an educator and author and podcaster who embodies leadership from the heart. The full interview will be out a little later in the year, but I wanted to share a part of it today in hopes it helps you navigate through challenging times. Frederick reminds us of an important, not complicated, thing we can do that really REALLY helps.

And if I can be a support for you as you're going through something, please don't hesitate to reach out.

So much love from me.

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It was a biggie, and reached all the way into our bank.. Here's how I felt empowered instead of victimized.

Here's the wonderful First This Podcast episode on Loving Kindness.. https://www.nothingmuchhappens.com/first-this/loving-kindness-meditation

Here's the link to this episode in YouTube.. https://youtu.be/mC8J72KYauA Here's the link to the conversations coming up Tues. 10/24 and Wed. 10/25 on how I became friends with food.. https://bit.ly/kisfriendswithfood

Thank you for listening!

So much love, Kay

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There are lots of aspects to safety and feeling safe.. My solo crossing of the UK's Coast-to-Coast Path taught me so much about feeling safe. Not just while doing a high-performance trek like this, but in like everyday life.

Join me in exploring!

Here is the link for the Global Coach Community's 2nd Annual Virtual Retreat! http://bit.ly/GCCFUN

This free, soul-restoring gathering is taking place Sat&Sun 10/14-15, our theme is "Are we having FUN yet?" Come for one session or come for them all, any that feel resononant.. I'm leading us at 2PM EST on Sunday 10/15! See you there!

Here's today's episode in YouTube.. https://youtu.be/RF4Gp6-3wAU

I'm going deeper into the most epic lessons I learned (about myself while crossing England) in zoom conversations each month throughout the rest of 2023!

October's is all about how food and my own body stopped being my enemies! View and register for the zooms on this topic - taking place Tues and Wed 10/24 and 10/25 - at this link: https://bit.ly/kisfriendswithfood

View and sign up for any you'd like to at this link: http://bit.ly/ilearnedcollection

Enjoy! So much love, Kay Kay Lock Kolp Coach, artist, adventurer http://kaylockkolp.com

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"Unleash the power of play!" our colleague Dr. Patricia Burlaud writes.. "I am excited to invite you to a one-of-a-kind gathering about leveling up your skills and rejuvenating your soul. I proudly present the 2nd Annual Virtual Retreat of the Global Coach Community - a free event that will change how you peceive leadership, coaching, and personal development." Today you hear from Patricia and several other world class coaches (including my cohost Karin Dent : ) who will lead sessions in the Global Coach Community's 2nd Annual Virtual retreat!

Read on to see who's leading on what, and if you'd like to get some more fun in your life use this link to sign up! http://bit.ly/GCCFUN

MARK YOUR CALENDARS for Saturday and Sunday, October 14 and 15th… Six sessions each day between 9 AM and 3 PM EST.

There's no fee to participate and you can join for as many or as few sessions as you like.. Here we are, in order of our presentations, and here's what we're doing!!

First up on Saturday, October 14… Heather Egginton, who coaches around emotional intelligence, leads on the question "If joy is already here, where does fun fit in?"

Then at 10 AM EST, Forest Therapy Coach Monique Giroux leads "Into the Woods: Awakening Joy through the Art of Forest Therapy"

At 11 AM EST Marketing and Design Coach Nicole Gallucci, who many of you will remember from her epic session last year (and her recent conversation with me on this show!), brings play in an as-yet-to-be-determined way…

At 12 PM EST Jungian Coach Michele Walker joins us for an amazing journey into our imagination with a session she's calling "Imagine That!"

At 1 PM EST Reno Winston, who coaches around all things life, love, and business, leads us in a session the name of which is literally "To Be Determined"! Cannot wait to see what Reno brings into our retreat!

At 2 PM EST, Mayo-Clinic-Certified Well-Being Coach – and my beloved cohost – Karin Dent is wrapping up Day 1 of our retreat with a roundtable about insights and inspiration from the day!

On Sunday, October 15, session 1 at 9 AM EST is with TransFLOWmation Coach and poet Frank Bolaji Irawo… Frank's leading us in a lovely session called Finding Your Fun… TransFLOWmation Style…

At 10 AM EST Helena Carrizosa, who coaches around intuition and business, is taking us on an Intuition Playdate!

At 11 AM EST, former high-energy physicist and seasoned executive coach Dr. Patricia Burlaud returns to her physics routes and brings us along for the ride in her session, Time Play: Fun in the 4th Dimension!

At 12 PM EST coach-for-engineers Andrea Clough, who you may remember from her awesome session last year, returns for the retreat with "From Roller Coaster To Rocket Launch, How Change Can Be Fun"…

At 1 PM EST Communication Coach Aidan Lazzarotto returns for his second year in our virtual retreat with a session as yet to be determined…

At 2 PM EST y'all get to play with me! I am Kay, a high-performance and well-being coach, and an artist, and we are wrapping up this year's virtual retreat by playing games!

Register for the virtual retreat – it's free, and you can attend all the sessions or just a few, however many you'd like – at this link: http://bit.ly/GCCFUN

See you there!

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Focusing in on two questions for today's episode! Enjoy! Here's today's episode in YouTube.. https://youtu.be/s5QSLQ5PUUU

I'm going deeper into the most epic lessons I learned while solo-hiking across northern England in zoom conversations each month throughout the rest of 2023!

View and register for September's – coming up on Sept. 26 and 27 - "I learned my truth" – at this link: https://bit.ly/klearnedhertruth

View and sign up for any you'd like to at this link: http://bit.ly/ilearnedcollection

Enjoy! So much love, Kay Kay Lock Kolp Coach, artist, adventurer http://kaylockkolp.com

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I continue to be asked such great questions about my solo hike across northern England this past May!

I answer quite a few of them here : )

I'm going deeper into the most epic lessons I learned in zoom conversations each month throughout the rest of 2023!

View and sign up for any you'd like to at this link: http://bit.ly/ilearnedcollection

View and register for September's – coming up on Sept. 26 and 27 - "I learned my truth" – at this link: https://bit.ly/klearnedhertruth

Enjoy! So much love, Kay Kay Lock Kolp Coach, artist, adventurer http://kaylockkolp.com

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SENSITIVE EARS ALERT: There's a story I share here where I totally drop f-bombs... involving one of my favorite people I met who gave me a great gift! So you might want to listen with headphones or away from folks with sensitive ears when you hear me mention Kevin.

Solo-hiking doesn't mean total solitude all the time - in this episode, I'm sharing about the people who made my trip AMAZING
(Well, except for 3 new friends who you'll hear about in Episode 402 : )

Enjoy!
So much love,
Kay

I'm going deeper into some of the lessons I learned in zoom conversations each month throughout the rest of 2023!

View and sign up for any you'd like to at this link:
http://bit.ly/ilearnedcollection

View and register for August's – coming up on Aug. 28 and 29 - "I learned I can do hard things" – at this link:
https://bit.ly/kcandohardthings

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I'm SOOOO excited to share about my trip with you!

I've been integrating my learning, which was pretty disorienting at first.

I finally feel ready to bring you into the challenges and joys and why I did the trip in the first place.

This is part one of a FIVE-part series – I say three in this episode but it's expanded out! 
AAAAND... they're coming out every two weeks for the series : )
Let's jump in!

I'm going deeper into some of the lessons I learned in zoom conversations each month throughout the rest of 2023!

View and sign up for any you'd like to at this link:
http://bit.ly/ilearnedcollection

View and register for August's – "I learned I can do hard things" – at this link:
https://bit.ly/kcandohardthings

Thank you for being here with me. What fun!
Kay

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What does it look like to create your life from a loving and trusting place inside yourself?
That's the question that Coach Andrew Moss invites us to consider.
Not just us, himself…

In a little less than three weeks from the release of today's episode, Andrew will leave life as he's known it and head out into an exciting future, racing around the world in a clipper ship!

Our conversation ranges to some interesting places – like why selfishness is good; how to handle pressure; and how to truly tune into our own inner wisdom.

And we keep coming back to a central concept: taking care of ourselves benefits EVERYONE.

Enjoy!!

To connect with Andrew go to http://coachandrewmoss.com…
To join me in supporting Andrew as he travels around the world, visit his me GoFundMe page… https://www.gofundme.com/f/xqqbkk-help-andrew-fulfill-his-dream

To connect with me, go to http://kaylockkolp.com or Instagram @weturnedoutokay

So much love to you,
Kay

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Hi friends! Here's the link: https://bit.ly/gateclmbr

Here are the deets!..
For someone who needed a wheelchair 12 years ago, my achievement by the numbers is astonishing:
I hiked 160 miles along this path…
I hiked 17 of 20 possible hiking days…
I hiked the last 11 days in a row, without rest days.

But amazing as they are those numbers do not tell the whole story.

Here’s what REALLY happened…
I met my whole, unbroken self on the trail.
The self that got hidden away by illness and life events.
It was messy, and muddy, and exhilarating and wild.
Join me as I share what I learned about myself crossing England!

Tues. June 27, 7PM Eastern Time
Sat. July 1, 2PM Eastern Time

https://bit.ly/gateclmbr

With Love, Kay

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I am excited to bring you this conversation with wonderful coach Elaine Taylor-Klaus!
(So much so that even with less-than-perfect audio, you still get to hear it :)

"Our job," Elaine shares, "is to be on our journey."
What better way to joyfully support those we love than to feel secure and joyful ourselves?

Once you've fallen in love with her during our conversation you can connect with Elaine at her website, impactparents.com - she's got a gift for you here! - and by listening to her Parenting With Impact Podcast.

Enjoy this wonderful conversation!

Then, grab Elaine's amazing gift at impactparents.com/intuition.

SO much love to you!
Kay

I share playful and loving energy pretty frequently here..
Instagram: @weturnedoutokay
LinkedIn: Kay Lock Kolp, M.Ed.

And my website is..
kaylockkolp.com
It's got some fun art, interesting writing, and a very cute baby picture! On the About page.

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Oooooh, this is a great episode. You are going to LOVE Nicole Gallucci, Mama G to many, colleague and friend to me. Reach out to Nicole at http://nicolegallucci.com and say hi! As this comes out I am wrapping up my "big walk" 3 weeks and 192 mi across northern England!  I'm sharing in Instagram, @weturnedoutokay, and you can find out more about my journey to get to the start of the path at http://kaylockkolp.com/adventures So much love to you! See you next time :) 

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Herewith, the three things that I think really matter in growing a healthy community… Come find me and tell me if you agree! https://www.kaylockkolp.com/contact/ I'm walking the Coast-to-Coast Path across northern England in just a few weeks!!! THANK YOU for your incredible gifts. You are helping me realize this dream of crossing England on foot! https://www.gofundme.com/f/from-wheelchair-to-walking-across-england I'm sharing about my training adventures in the following places and I'll be sharing as I make the trek too! https://www.instagram.com/weturnedoutokay/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kay-lock-kolp-m-ed-018564130/ Thank you for being with me and a part of THIS community… SO much love from Kay

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Today, we're looking at two helpful ways to proceed when we encounter obstacles! Buckle up, it's a wild ride : ) Also! I've got an update about my ADHD/CECS journey, which includes a tool you might find helpful for loved ones with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (or as we like to call it around here, creative energetic curiosity syndrome)… And finally a Coast-to-Coast Path trip update! THANK YOU for your incredible gifts. You are helping me realize this dream of crossing England on foot! https://www.gofundme.com/f/from-wheelchair-to-walking-across-england I'm sharing about my training adventures in the following places and I'll be sharing as I make the trek too! https://www.instagram.com/weturnedoutokay/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kay-lock-kolp-m-ed-018564130/ Thank you for being here with me.. SO much love from Kay

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You are in luck today, as I bring on Karin Dent, my beloved colleague and cohost from the 1st Annual Global Coach Community Virtual Retreat! The retreat took place last autumn and changed both of our lives as you'll hear.. It was one of the most profound, moving, and exhilarating experiences of my life. I can't wait to take you into it with Karin! Here's where you can find all the session leaders… Sarah Jayne Juniper, who kicked us off with an awesome roundtable, can be found here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahjaynejuniper/ Tonia Emanuel, who led a fantastic session about manifesting – and designed all the graphics and promotional materials for our retreat! – can be found here: coachyou360.com Cassandra Ciarallo, who dared us to ask the question "wouldn't it be amazing if?… can be found here: https://www.instagram.com/coachingwithCass/ Me, Kay Lock Kolp – I led a session on "choosing our own adventure," and I can be found here: https://www.kaylockkolp.com/ Mark Sanders, who came to us, shared his own story and answered participants' questions about One Solution Global, can be found here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-sanders-0aba16168/ Sheilja Arora, who led us in a beautiful session on self-discovery, can be found here: https://www.sheiljaarora.com/ Liz Parkin, who profoundly synthesized our learning from the first of our two days together, can be found here: LizParkin.com Claudia-Sam Cataford Sauve, who led us in a deep and moving session all about getting out of our own emotional tornado, can be found here: claudiasamsoulcoaching.com Andrea Clough, who helped us channel our inner Indiana Jones and step out onto an invisible bridge, can be found here: andreaclough.com Amazing cohost Karin Dent, who led us in a lovely session about how to give ourselves grace, can be found here: https://www.instagram.com/discover.you.coaching/ Nicole Gallucci, who invited us to envision our bright future, can be found here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-gallucci-0517162/ Aidan Lazzarotto, who led us on deep listening and gave us an incredible experience of sharing and truly connecting around stories, can be found here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aidanlazzarotto/ Here is where you can find our chosen donation beneficiary, One Solution Here is where you can find Global Coach Community founder Andrew Moss… Thank you for being along on this journey with me. It means a lot <3

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Nick Jubber brings all sorts of interests – storytelling, nomadism, connections, humanity – into his life and writing. This is a fantastic conversation that I'm so excited to bring you today, with an accomplished and consummate sharer of ideas. Nick's writing appears in all sorts of publications including The Guardian, The Telegraph, The Globe and Mail, and BBC Online. Nick has spoken on NPR and BBC Radio 4, as well as at numerous festivals. Nick's written plays performed at places like the Edinborough Festival and the Actor's Centre in London. Today we begin with the provocative drama teacher who set Nick on his way in his early years… and we arrive at ideas that truly leave this podcaster speechless. That's a pretty tall order and something that hasn't happened often in nearly 400 episodes!

Then heads up - it sounds like the episode's going to wrap up when the interview ends… but that's not the case! I bring you an ADHD/CECS update and share something I'm excited about: The Asynchronous Idea Party of 2023.

k (at) kaylockkolp (dot) com or kaylockkolp.com/contact to share your idea! Remember… What you want AND what the obstacle is to what you want. Let's get this party started – Happy new year!

Links Worth Clicking (which is how my friend Blake refers to them : )

Find everything Nick does at nickjubber.com, including his new book, The Fairy Tellers. Our conversation centers around fairytales today, and Nick shares that this book is probably why.

Find Nick on Instagram @NickJubber

Find me and everything I do at kaylockkolp.com

Find me on Instagram @weturnedoutokay (this is where you can see the video of me gently climbing… then giggling : )

Click yearcompass.com/en for the planning document I'm using this year. It comes up in the second part of today's episode.

Cheers! I am glad we are along for this ride together!!

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CAUTION – about 25 minutes in there are swears! Definitely grab some headphones or listen away from sensitive ears today.

I had a truly bizarre experience last week. I watched my own life play out in a documentary about people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

What you hear today is the birth of my impossible dream: It's time to rebrand ADHD.

By the way – I've heard it said that "The difficult is that which takes a little time. The impossible is that which takes a little longer." THAT'S the sense in which I mean impossible above.

Today's links…

... I was honored to be in my friend Mark McGuinness's Creative Disruption season of his amazing 21st Century Creative podcast this year! Mark has created a page with the whole season gathered together where you can find all our interviews: https://lateralaction.com/articles/creative-disruption-pandemic/

... I AM HAVING A DANCE-A-THON!! It's January 1, 2023, it's virtual, and it's going to be a blast! Find more information and register by clicking this link: http://kaylockkolp.com/adventures

... Here is the GoFundMe for my trip! https://www.gofundme.com/f/from-wheelchair-to-walking-across-england

... Watch the trailer for the wonderful ADHD documentary The Disruptors – recommended to me by my buddy and friend-of-the-podcast Janine Halloran – by clicking this link: https://disruptorsfilm.com/

Much love to you! Thank you for being here, Kay

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THANK YOU for your patience… We are a week late with this episode because I've been sick!
I'm better now and I'm here with a story about how I built an electric fence around myself for safety.
How that fence became a prison that kept ME in.
How I have broken myself out.
And how (if this is a trap you're caught in as well) you can break yourself out too!

Here are today's links…

Michael Singer's book (he explains this a lot better there, than I do here : ) The Untethered Soul

Kathryn Nicolai's wonderful mindfulness and mediation podcast: First This

My website: http://kaylockkolp.com

View my art at http://kaylockkolp.com/art … I keep making new stuff and I am learning so much.

See what's new at my Redbubble page – new paintings and they are on fun new things!

Connect with me, http://kaylockkolp.com/contact …

Find me in Instagram, http://instagram.com/weturnedoutokay …

Thank you for being here!

Much love to you -

Kay

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This is a special episode. Somewhere fairly early on my guest, amazing middle-school-teacher-turned-connection-coach Elise Knox, decides she's going to go deep.
And she really does!

If you want to hear how someone can transcend the roles they were born into, the expectations others had for them and instead make their own choice about who they are and what they love, you're in the right place.
If you want to hear the story of someone's rise above illness and the other massive challenges they confronted, you are going to LOVE our conversation.

Then stay tuned! After speaking with Elise I share about how I got well and truly lost on a hike recently.
Do you remember that scene in Maverick, Top Gun 2, where he wanders all disoriented into a diner somewhere in the United States? My son and I wandered into a dollar store miles away from where we left our car (weirdly just the day after we watched that movie). I felt exactly like Maverick, so disoriented.
It turns out that training to walk across the north of England isn't just physical training.
It's mindset as well.

Plus I've got an update for you about the upcoming virtual retreat I am cohosting on "Feeling hopeful in challenging times"!

It's the weekend of October 29th and 30th, invitation coming just after this episode drops!
My cohost and I along with 10 other coaches will put our heart and soul into this retreat. It's going to be awesome and very helpful if you feel in flux due to challenges in your life.

There will be no cost to attend and we appreciate donations of any amount to the amazing nonprofit https://onesolutionglobal.org

If this feels like your jam then make sure to mark your calendar!

Here are today's links…

Today's guest Elise Knox's website, http://eliseknox.com

My upcoming walk across the north of England... https://www.gofundme.com/f/from-wheelchair-to-walking-across-england

Kay Walks, the YouTube series I have recently started to share the experience of training for this walk... https://youtube.com/channel/UCqkEbmJ3mTpU2wgZIkNao4Q

My website: http://kaylockkolp.com

My writings page where you can find every 2021 issue of the We Turned Out Okay Playbook… http://kaylockkolp.com/writings

View my art at http://kaylockkolp.com/art … I am making some of my original fine art available for people to purchase : )
Visit this page for more information

Connect with me, http://kaylockkolp.com/contact …

Find me in Instagram, http://instagram.com/weturnedoutokay …

Find me in LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/kay-lock-kolp-m-ed-018564130/

Thank you for being here!

Much love to you -

Kay

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Today's guest, Katherine Leamy, has been a huge inspiration for me while planning my upcoming walk across the north of England! I am thrilled to bring Katherine to you today.

Her story may sound familiar, giving of herself as a wife, mom, and nurse… and realizing that she wanted to do something for herself. Realizing that in fact it's better for everybody if she does this, plus she really simply wanted to... So Katherine traveled from her home in New Zealand all the way to Croatia! And she's been on many trips since that first one back in 2017.

Our conversation goes deep, way beyond the practical how-to of a solo trip (you can find lots about the practical how-to at Katherine's wonderful website, http://the5kilotraveller.com : )

I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did!

Here are today's links…

Today's guest Katherine Leamy's website, http://the5kilotraveller.com

The link to my story if you'd like to read more about my upcoming walk across the north of England... https://www.gofundme.com/f/from-wheelchair-to-walking-across-england

Kay Walks, the YouTube series I have recently started to share the experience of training for this walk... https://youtube.com/channel/UCqkEbmJ3mTpU2wgZIkNao4Q

My website: http://kaylockkolp.com

My writings page where you can find every 2021 issue of the We Turned Out Okay Playbook… http://kaylockkolp.com/writings

Click the following link for my essay, Orchid Nature,if you need some hope and inspiration at the beginning of this school year… https://www.kaylockkolp.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Orchid-Nature-by-Karen-Lock-Kolp.pdf

View my art at http://kaylockkolp.com/art …

Connect with me, http://kaylockkolp.com/contact …

Find me in Instagram, http://instagram.com/weturnedoutokay …

And keep your eyes peeled for information about the upcoming virtual retreat I am cohosting on "Feeling hopeful in challenging times"

It's the weekend of October 29th and 30th, so spread the word and mark your calendar!

Thank you for being here!

Much love to you -

Kay

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Today's guest, Katherine Leamy, has been a huge inspiration for me while planning my upcoming walk across the north of England! I am thrilled to bring Katherine to you today.

Her story may sound familiar, giving of herself as a wife, mom, and nurse… and realizing that she wanted to do something for herself. Realizing that in fact it's better for everybody if she does this, plus she really simply wanted to... So Katherine traveled from her home in New Zealand all the way to Croatia! And she's been on many trips since that first one back in 2017.

Our conversation goes deep, way beyond the practical how-to of a solo trip (you can find lots about the practical how-to at Katherine's wonderful website, http://the5kilotraveller.com : )

I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did!

Here are today's links…

Today's guest Katherine Leamy's website, http://the5kilotraveller.com

The link to my story if you'd like to read more about my upcoming walk across the north of England... https://www.gofundme.com/f/from-wheelchair-to-walking-across-england

Kay Walks, the YouTube series I have recently started to share the experience of training for this walk... https://youtube.com/channel/UCqkEbmJ3mTpU2wgZIkNao4Q

My website: http://kaylockkolp.com

My writings page where you can find every 2021 issue of the We Turned Out Okay Playbook… http://kaylockkolp.com/writings

Click the following link for my essay, Orchid Nature,if you need some hope and inspiration at the beginning of this school year… https://www.kaylockkolp.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Orchid-Nature-by-Karen-Lock-Kolp.pdf

View my art at http://kaylockkolp.com/art …

Connect with me, http://kaylockkolp.com/contact …

Find me in Instagram, http://instagram.com/weturnedoutokay …

And keep your eyes peeled for information about the upcoming virtual retreat I am cohosting on "Feeling hopeful in challenging times"

It's the weekend of October 29th and 30th, so spread the word and mark your calendar!

Thank you for being here!

Much love to you -

Kay

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I'm glad you are here!
Here's a summary of the steps to creating the life you actually want to live:
1. Pay attention to your self-talk. You get to choose whether you believe it or not.
2. Remember that when people feel good, they do good things. If someone isn't doing a good thing it's because they feel bad.
3. Cultivate feeling good by choosing to… Not the other way around. I.e. it's not "good things happen so I feel good"… It's "when I feel good, good things happen"
4. Ask, how might you cultivate feeling good?

Here's how I do it…

Much love,
Kay

PS As of this month I am retiring my newsletter… After writing it for 7 years I'm understanding that it's not the best place for me to place my creative energy.

I have a huge THANK YOU for those of you who have been a part of the newsletter! Corresponding with you is a joy in my life.
I want to celebrate that in this moment.
I'm celebrating you right now <3
This link will take you to lots of options for connecting with me even after the last issue of my newsletter is published…

http://kaylockkolp.com/weekly

Links for today's episode:

21 Ways to Read a Tarot Card

The Adventure Zone

My favorite tarot deck, The Gill Tarot

I'm so excited to share my new website! It's hosted by dear friends of ours, people who babysat our firstborn when he was four months old. It feels so good and streamlined with why I'm building my life right now:
http://kaylockkolp.com

http://kaylockkolp.com/writings for essays, my book Positive Discipline Ninja Tactics, and every single 2021 issue of the We Turned Out Okay Playbook

My website's art page is LIVE!! So you can see some of what I am creating : )

Thank you for being here! It means a lot!

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A few Program Notes: in the segment AFTER my conversation with David, I share about something sad that happened in our family recently: we said goodbye to our beloved pet chicken, Saphira.
I wanted to let you know here in case the emotions around the loss of loved ones aren't something you'd like to engage with today.
In that case please enjoy my conversation with David Rue and skip this month's post segment.

Also, I apologize for my audio quality... David sounds great, but on my end, not so much! My amazing producer, 25-time Husband of the Year Award Winner Benjamin Kolp, is working on it.

Thank you for being here <3

Once in a while in conversation, I notice something special: everything extraneous falls away, there's a beautiful sense of flow, and I literally lose time.
That's what happened in this conversation with David Rue.
David creates an amazing podcast for children and families, Biddy's Stories. (You can find Biddy here at David's website, or wherever you get your podcasts.)
David has adopted the motto "when you go to sleep laughing, you wake up smiling." He brings wonderful stories into existence. Or as he shares in this conversation, "I let the story see where it wants to go."
The stories are fun for the grown-ups as well as the kids. I can attest to this personally : )

At some point we go way beyond the usual podcast conversation stuff – and into a conversation that's both fun and profound.
I hope you have as much fun listening as we did talking!

Much love,
Kay

PS Here's the story of why I am doing my 2023 Long Walk: https://www.gofundme.com/f/from-wheelchair-to-walking-across-england

My website's art page is LIVE!! This means you can see some of what I am creating : )

Or see what's new at
my Redbubble page

Thank you for being here! It means a lot!

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"People who feel good do good things. People who feel bad do bad things."
When a friend said this to me recently, it made so much sense. 
But if you're not feeling good right now – if you're experiencing feelings of anger, or sadness, or guilt, or frustration over all that's going on in the world (maybe even in your world)… I hope this episode helps you find a way forward.

Much love,
Kay

PS Sign up for my monthly essay and art share (and training update for my 2023 Long Walk) by going to http://kaylockkolp.com/weekly

My website's art page is LIVE!! So you can see some of what I am creating : )

Or see what's new at
my Redbubble page

Thank you for being here! It means a lot!

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If you are feeling buffeted by circumstances and kind of stuck, you are going to love this conversation.

In this episode I get to speak with Micaela Levesque, the creator of a giant mural that takes up the whole side of a building in Hartford, Connecticut.

At the time of our conversation it is the biggest thing Micaela's ever made, and we discuss how it came to be.

Its creation included very practical things! Like getting a special license to operate a giant scissor lift, and Michaela's ability to turn her mindset to abundance and think really big : )

Find Micaela at micaelalevesque.com…

Find the pictures – including the one of her beautiful mural – at my Instagram account, @weturnedoutokay…

Sign up for my weekly essay and art share (and training update for my 2023 Long Walk) by going to http://kaylockkolp.com/weekly

My website's art page is LIVE!! So you can see some of what I am creating : )

Or see what's new at
my Redbubble page

Thank you for being here! It means a lot!
Much love,
Kay

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This question changed everything for me. I had never thought of my own health and wellness in such a context before! It took some deep work, but the answer that came up in me... whooee! I share about it today. 

Sign up for my weekly essay and art share by going to http://kaylockkolp.com/weekly

My website's art page is LIVE!! So you can see some of what I am creating : )

Or see what's new at
my Redbubble page

Thank you for being here! It means a lot!
Much love,
Kay

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Today I share the story of a recent injury my Mom sustained… and how in the aftermath the love I feel for her caused me to – very nearly – show up in her life in a tyrannical way.

Not in the loving, caring way that I would wish.

Two questions a friend of mine asked me to think on helped me be in the best energy both for myself, and to be helpful for my Mom.

I hope this one's helpful for you!

Sign up for my weekly essay and art share by going to http://kaylockkolp.com/weekly

My website's art page is still under construction. So for now I invite you to see what I'm working on at Kay to the Tenth, my Redbubble page

Thank you for being here! It means a lot!
Much love,
Kay

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Spoiler alert: my word of the year is…
MAGIC
What's yours?

Sign up for my weekly essay and art share by going to http://kaylockkolp.com/weekly…

My website's art page is still under construction. So for now I invite you to see what I'm working on at Kay to the Tenth, my Redbubble page

Thank you for being here! It means a lot!
Much love,
Kay

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I was so excited to bring today's guest to you that I completely fail to introduce her at the beginning of the episode!
Let me do that here: Liz Powers is CEO and Chief Happiness Spreader at ArtLifting, the virtual art gallery that champions artists impacted by homelessness and disabilities.

Long before Liz and her brother founded ArtLifting, she worked as an art therapist. She would meet people in the direst of situations and was routinely impressed with their resilience.

If you are looking for a conversation to lift you up and remind you of all the good in the world, this is the one for you.

We recorded only in audio! Something I'm going to keep doing. There's a different feeling when we are not worrying about appearance or facial expressions but instead focusing on conveying important ideas, connecting, and fun.

To see Liz's book art and my first-ever amaryllis art, find me in Instagram @weturnedoutokay…

Find Liz at http://artlifting.com
or in all the socials @artlifting

Sign up for my weekly essay and art share by going to http://kaylockkolp.com/weekly…

My website's art page is still under construction. So for now I invite you to see what I'm working on at Kay to the Tenth, my redbubble page

Thank you for being here! It means a lot!

Kay

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If you're in need of a conversation that boosts your joy in being alive, this is the one for you!
My guest, Peleg Top of pelegtop.com, is a mentor and an artist based in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Peleg goes deep today on how the challenges he's faced have helped him grow into the playful and fulfilled person he is today. This is an extremely fun conversation which includes, among much else, references to ecstatic dance and the latest Abba album! More Links from our conversation…
I first heard Peleg speak with Mark McGuinness on Mark's wonderful podcast, 21st Century Creative.
Peleg sends out a beautiful newsletter-essay each month called a Love Letter; sign up for them here.
A formative book for me that comes up today is called A Young People's History of the United States
While my website's Art page is still under construction, visit my redbubble page by clicking here…
Thank you for being along on this journey with me!
Much love,
Kay

Kay Lock Kolp M.Ed. Coach and Artist
kaylockkolp.com
The quote I live by: "Play is the highest form of research." – Albert Einstein

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Something exciting is happening!
Today I share about what's changing, and what's staying the same.
Thank you for being on this journey with me <3 <3
K

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This was a fun one, with a colleague who was so helpful for me at a pivotal point in my coaching career.
Garrison Cohen of thesatorieffect.net dives deep into many subjects today, including the idea of a "perfect system," spam insanity, and his concept of "selfish generosity" which certainly resonated deeply for me. I bet it will for you as well.
Join us!
Key Links:
Click here for Garrison's exciting project, The Satori Effect, which may be for you if you're doing great work, and need somebody to help you tell the world about it (in a lovely way : ) I am excited to share my art with you! Here’s the link… https://www.redbubble.com/people/kaytothetenth If something resonates and you make a purchase, all profits are split 50/50 between the production of this podcast, and a rotating range of charities (some of which are brought to my attention by the folks who purchase my art : ) I’m over-the-moon grateful to those who support us in this way. You rock!
Click https://bit.ly/K2essays to sign up for my free weekly essays delivered right into your inbox … As you’ll hear in the post-show, it’s more than essays. It’s a piece of my artwork each week as well as the essay; it’s a We Turned Out Okay Playbook, formerly available only as a paid subscription; and it’s a monthly live meet-up over zoom! It’s such fun and could only be better with you as a part of it <3 Also in the post-interview segment, the following links come up: My conversation with educator Nicole Olsen at https://weturnedoutokay.com/185 My conversation with coach Andrew Moss at https://open.spotify.com/episode/2p0ooDopyPhzuLzaPvE3S8?si=a64027c2796f4567 Steven Pressfield’s amazing book The War of Art ... https://stevenpressfield.com/books/the-war-of-art/ Find the podcast and every back episode in these places, or wherever you get podcasts…
Apple Podcasts… http://bit.ly/WTOOApple
Spotify… http://bit.ly/WTOOSpotify
Stitcher Podcasts… http://bit.ly/WTOOStitcher

Karen
Karen Lock Kolp M.Ed. (I am sometimes called Kay, short for Kay Squared because I'm multidimensional : )

Executive, Leadership, and Play Coach

Host of the We Turned Out Okay Podcast, helping parents – and former children – walk their best path (not the one that somebody else thinks they should be on) The quote I live by: "Play is the highest form of research." – Albert Einstein

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I've been super excited to bring you this conversation!

Today we hear from a one-to-one coaching client of mine, Angela. You'll hear her talk about some of the biggest struggles she had before we began working together – "Being overworked and not knowing how to stop;" and being "So fragmented mentally."
If you're feeling something similar, this conversation may be just what you need.
Because Angela's not feeling that way anymore. Instead, she shares about feeling "faster at giving into my happy." That's where all the good, interesting, playful and fun stuff starts.
Join us!

Key Links:
Click here for the wonderful TED talk by Sean Achor, in which he convinces his sister that she is a baby unicorn. So good!

Click https://bit.ly/K2essays to sign up for my free weekly essays delivered right into your inbox with gratitude, and zero spam

Because my website is busted – click here to find out more about that, https://bit.ly/KisMovingAlsoFreePlaybook – I'm not posting show notes there…

Find the podcast and every back episode in these places, or wherever you get podcasts…
Apple Podcasts… http://bit.ly/WTOOApple
Spotify… http://bit.ly/WTOOSpotify
Stitcher Podcasts… http://bit.ly/WTOOStitcher

Karen
Karen Lock Kolp M.Ed. (I am sometimes called Kay, short for Kay Squared because I'm multidimensional : )

Executive, Leadership, and Play Coach

Host of the We Turned Out Okay Podcast, helping parents – and former children – walk their best path (not the one that somebody else thinks they should be on) The quote I live by: "Play is the highest form of research." – Albert Einstein

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We recorded back in late summer, and here is a testament to the power of this conversation: just this morning I was speaking to my teen, and remembering today's guest, Shane Trotter, telling about research on drug addiction. This research was called the "rat playground," in which the positive societies that the rats lived in during the research made it easy for them to turn away from the powerful drugs – like cocaine – that were available 24/7 in the playground.
If you need some hope that things will be okay, THIS is your conversation.
As a young adult, Shane developed a kind of obsessive-compulsive disorder called Pino OCD. And like me with my tendon challenges over the last decade, Shane has found this to be as much a gift as anything else. He wouldn't be who he is today without Pino OCD.
Shane has written a great book, Setting the Bar, which is out just this week and which I know you're going to love. We discuss Setting the Bar, so you'll get a flavor for it.
There's so much else in here to love. I am excited to share a conversation that I personally found enlightening, inspiring, and so much fun!
Join us!

Key Links…
– Find Shane at trottershane.com
– My conversation with coach Andrew Moss from episode 374 comes up today… Listen here
– My first book, Positive Discipline Ninja Tactics, comes up in our conversation… Get the book here: http://amzn.to/1WE8DOA
– The hilarious and wonderful improv show, Whose Line Is It Anyway?, comes up in our conversation
– We talk about my friend and frequent WTOO guest Janine Halloran today, find Janine at janinehalloran.com

– Click here for Steve Jobs' Stanford commencement address, which Shane brings up today

Because my website is busted – click here to find out more about that, https://bit.ly/KisMovingAlsoFreePlaybook – I'm not posting show notes there…

Click https://bit.ly/K2essays to sign up for my free weekly essays delivered right into your inbox with gratitude, and zero spam

Exciting news! I am giving away my formerly-subscription-only We Turned Out Okay Playbook digital copy, each and every month starting now throughout 2022, to everyone who is signed up for my essays!

That's a $50 value – as my friend Andres says, "that's no Netflix subscription, that's an investment" – and you can get it free each and every month.
Click here (https://bit.ly/KisMovingAlsoFreePlaybook) to learn more, and click here (https://bit.ly/K2essays) to sign up.…
The two links are clunky I know, but necessary with the busted website.

Find the podcast and every back episode in these places, or wherever you get podcasts…
Apple Podcasts… http://bit.ly/WTOOApple
Spotify… http://bit.ly/WTOOSpotify
Stitcher Podcasts… http://bit.ly/WTOOStitcher
Karen Lock Kolp M.Ed. (I am sometimes called Kay, short for Kay Squared because I'm multidimensional : )

Executive, Leadership, and Play Coach

Host of the We Turned Out Okay Podcast, helping parents – and former children – walk their best path (not the one that somebody else thinks they should be on) The quote I live by: "Play is the highest form of research." – Albert Einstein

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Greetings! I am excited to bring you a fun and provocative conversation on play today with friend and colleague Zovig Garboushian.
Our conversation ranges over art installations in two of our favorite cities; what fun really is; and how play helps us get a larger picture of our lives and ourselves…
Zovig has helped me through some pretty challenging places in my own life. Connect with her by going to http://boldnessablazecoaching.com (which I know you’ll want to do once you listen : )
More links just below. Join us!

Key Links…

Find Zovig at http://boldnessablazecoaching.com

Click the following link to read about The Gates, an amazing art installation in New York City…https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Gates#:~:text=The%20Gates%20were%20a%20group,Park%20in%20New%20York%20City.

Click the following link to read about The Net, an amazing art installation in Boston…https://www.wbur.org/news/2015/05/05/janet-echelman-rose-kennedy-greenway

Click the following link for episode 264, my conversation with Blake Boles…https://weturnedoutokay.com/264

Because my website is busted – click here to find out more about that, https://bit.ly/KisMovingAlsoFreePlaybook – I'm not posting show notes there…

Click https://bit.ly/K2essays to sign up for my free weekly essays delivered right into your inbox with gratitude, and zero spam

Exciting news! I am giving away my formerly-subscription-only We Turned Out Okay Playbook digital copy, each and every month starting now throughout 2022, to everyone who is signed up for my essays!

That's a $50 value – as my friend Andres says, "that's no Netflix subscription, that's an investment" – and you can get it free each and every month.
Click here (https://bit.ly/KisMovingAlsoFreePlaybook) to learn more, and click here (https://bit.ly/K2essays) to sign up.…
The two links are clunky I know, but necessary with the busted website.

Find the podcast and every back episode in these places, or wherever you get podcasts…
Apple Podcasts… http://bit.ly/WTOOApple
Spotify… http://bit.ly/WTOOSpotify
Stitcher Podcasts… http://bit.ly/WTOOStitcher

With Love,
K

Karen Lock Kolp M.Ed. (I am sometimes called Kay, short for Kay Squared because I'm multidimensional : )

Executive, Leadership, and Play Coach

Host of the We Turned Out Okay Podcast, helping parents – and former children – walk their best path (not the one that somebody else thinks they should be on) The quote I live by: "Play is the highest form of research." – Albert Einstein

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If you're in a place that feels not of your choosing, where the daily grind is pulling you down and it feels like there are no good choices, I'm glad you are here because this conversation will help.
Today I bring you a conversation with amazing coach Andrew Moss, who – as you'll hear – went on a journey of discovery a number of years ago that started with an old friend asking him the question "How do you want your kids to remember you?"
It was a difficult time in Andrew's life, and this question set him on a trajectory full of joy, gratitude, and kindness. Once Andrew understood the implications of that question, he set out to remake his life with purpose.
I hope today's conversation inspires you and gives you some practical ways to get where you want to go… Join us!

Key Links:
See what Andrew is up to at his website, coachandrewmoss.com … It's got a very fun innovation, The Everything Button : )

Click here for Simon Sinek's podcast episode with guest Matthew Barzun, who's written a wonderful book called The Power of Giving Away Power

Because my website is busted – click here to find out more about that – I'm not posting show notes there…

Click here for this episode in YouTube

Click here to sign up for my free weekly essays delivered right into your inbox with gratitude, and zero spam

BTW I am giving away my formerly-subscription-only We Turned Out Okay Playbook digital copy, each and every month starting now throughout 2022, to everyone who is signed up for my essays!
That's a $50 value – as my friend Andres says, "that's no Netflix subscription, that's an investment" – and you can get it free each and every month. Click here to learn more, and click here to sign up.… (The two links are clunky I know, but necessary with the busted website.)

Find the podcast and every back episode in these places, or wherever you get podcasts…
Apple Podcasts… http://bit.ly/WTOOApple
Spotify… http://bit.ly/WTOOSpotify
Stitcher Podcasts… http://bit.ly/WTOOStitcher

Cheers!,

K
Karen Lock Kolp M.Ed. (I am sometimes called Kay, short for Kay Squared because I'm multidimensional : )

Executive, Leadership, and Play Coach

Host of the We Turned Out Okay Podcast, helping parents – and former children – walk their best path (not the one that somebody else thinks they should be on) The quote I live by: "Play is the highest form of research." – Albert Einstein

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Greetings! For the second in our Roundtable series with Marilyn Dollar, ClaireYvonne Nesbitt, and Tom Lancaster, we're bringing you favorite quotes, and a beautiful poem written by ClaireYvonne!
Hope you enjoy this episode – and feel as inspired – as I do!

Cheers –
Karen (or Kay, as these folks know and refer to me)

PS Instead of episode notes on the web, click here to read about my busted website and what will happen now that I've made the decision to move!

Key Links…

Find ClaireYvonne Nesbitt at https://www.linkedin.com/in/theexecutivecoach/
Find Tom Lancaster at http://altitudeevolution.com
Find Marilyn Dollar at https://thewomanscoach.com/about/

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Greetings! In reality the title of this episode is but one tiny part of the whole, because I get to bring you a roundtable today!

Click play to hear my conversation with three world-class coaches. Three amazing people, Tom Lancaster, Marilyn Dollar, and ClaireYvonne Nesbitt, who have each inspired me to become the best version of myself I can possibly be, simply with their presence and their sharing of thoughts – and in one case poetry (coming up in the next episode!)

The title of this episode feels especially relevant as I write these notes, after spending some time camping.
Out in nature, but with other humans – and their generators and loud music – which, if I let it, could have truly spoiled camping experience. (I'll write more on my camping experience, including the 48 hours I spent solo camping all by my onesies!, in an upcoming free newsletter-essay, which you can sign up for here: https://bit.ly/K2essays .)

For now, sit back and enjoy an amazing conversation. I hope that hearing from these three superb coaches helps you as much as it helped me!

Cheers!
Karen (or Kay, as these folks know and refer to me)

PS Instead of episode notes on the web, click here to read about my busted website and what will happen now that I've made the decision to move!

Key Links…

Find ClaireYvonne Nesbitt at https://www.linkedin.com/in/theexecutivecoach/
Find Tom Lancaster at http://altitudeevolution.com
Find Marilyn Dollar at https://thewomanscoach.com/about/

Click here for the book You Can't Say You Can't Play

Click here for information on David Taylor Klaus

Listen to Tom Lancaster's conversation with our fellow coach Bhavik Patel by clicking here.

Click here for The Lion Tracker's Guide to Life by Boyd Varty

Click here for information on Henry Rollins and the Black Flag Band

Click here for Kavita M. Ramdass' quote on "Women who…"

Click here for the video on how 6 portrait photographers' expectations shaped their final portraits, even more so than their subject

Thanks for listening/watching! I'm glad you are here

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Surprise! Today I’m bringing you a wonderful conversation with my friend - and friend-of-the-podcast - Janine Halloran, in which Janine is the host and I am the guest… Hope you enjoy this feed drop from Janine‘s podcast, Calm and Connected! Listen to more of Janine’s show by going to: https://www.janinehalloran.com/podcast/calm-and-connected-introduction And I’ll be back next week with a regularly scheduled episode. Cheers! Karen

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I'm thrilled to bring you this conversation with world-class coach Mike Harris!

(FYI: There is some mild adult language in here, so maybe listen away from sensitive ears or use ear buds : )

Mike is currently writing a book on the value he holds most dear, freedom.
He's a deep thinker who understands the importance of irreverence – in fact I almost called today's episode after something Mike says in our conversation:
"There is a certain irreverence in having choice."

He brings playful energy, a fascinating life journey that brought him where he is today, and at heart a vision for how we can all enjoy the pants off of our lives!

Here are some other mic drops you'll hear Mike share:
"The world is skewed toward a linear expression of how things are supposed to go."
"What if play weren't a reward in a transaction?"
"What if we lived our entire lives in the value of freedom?"
It's so good!

A couple notes:
1. This was originally supposed to be two episodes… I chose to keep the tape running, instead bringing you one longer one. If the ideas are flying at you fast and furious, and you need to pause and come back, I wanted to give you the choice of when and how to do that. But I bet that you, like me, will dive in and this time will go so quickly!
2. Fellow world-class coach Marilyn Dollar was planning to join us but there was a technological snafu… You'll hear us talk about her, and while she doesn't make it into today's conversation she will be coming on the show. So stay tuned : )

I hope you love this conversation as much as I did!

Here are the links that come up in today's episode:

Mike's home-on-the-web, MikeFHarris.com

Books that have had a huge influence on Mike:
Crazy Good by Steve Chandler
Tao Te Ching

Books that have had a huge influence on me:
The Courage to Heal
The Jeeves and Wooster books by PG Woodhouse (I cite one in this conversation, The Jeeves Omnibus. But they're all amazing)

Office Space, the movie

100 Truths You Will Learn Too Late, an amazing book

Cory Wong, the awesome song by Vulfpeck featuring guitarist Cory Wong

Episode 363, my conversation with Washington Post Parent Columnist Meghan Leahey

Episode 48, my conversation with author and poet Daniel Wolff

This episode's home on the web: weturnedoutokay.com/371

Listen to We Turned Out Okay in your favorite podcatcher!
Here are a few choice spots:

Apple Podcasts… http://bit.ly/WTOOApple

Spotify… http://bit.ly/WTOOSpotify

Stitcher Podcasts… http://bit.ly/WTOOStitcher

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Maybe it's not quite true, the title of this episode.
Maybe today's value isn't quite as all-encompassing as that makes it sound.
But it sure comes close for me.
We started this series back in episode one with a question, and I want to wrap up in the same way.
Today's is: If there was only one thing that we needed, what would it be?

Thank you so much for listening!
This has been an exercise in vulnerability for me, sharing these values with you. It means SO much – more than you will ever know – to have you along for this ride.
I am full of love and appreciation for you, in this moment and always <3
Karen

PS I have an invitation for you: if you haven't already, get to know me a little better by signing up for my weekly newsletter.
It's free, and I promise to hold your email address – and thus your heart – safely, in both my hands…
Go to https://weturnedoutokay.com/weekly to sign up : )

This episode's home-on-the-web: https://weturnedoutokay.com/370

The link to the fourth episode in this series (this is the fifth, and final)… https://weturnedoutokay.com/369

Click https://weturnedoutokay.com/364 for Janine Halloran's most recent appearance on We Turned Out Okay! It was super good, and perhaps not coincidentally about ADHD as a superpower – that's what Janine often tells her clients, when they get this diagnosis.

Listen to We Turned Out Okay in your favorite podcatcher!

Here are a few choice spots:

Apple Podcasts... http://bit.ly/WTOOApple

Spotify... http://bit.ly/WTOOSpotify

Stitcher Podcasts... Http://bit.ly/WTOOStitcher

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If I know you – and if you're a longtime listener – I bet you saw the words "not play" and immediately said "D'oh! Where Karen is concerned, play is always a thing!"
But not today.
No, today's value eats play for breakfast.

Thank you so much for listening! I am glad you're here <3
Karen

PS I have an invitation for you: if you haven't already, get to know me a little better by signing up for my weekly newsletter.
It's free, and I promise to hold your email address – and thus your heart – safely, in both my hands…
Go to https://weturnedoutokay.com/weekly to sign up : )

This episode's home-on-the-web: https://weturnedoutokay.com/369

The link to the third episode in this series (this is the fourth)… https://weturnedoutokay.com/368

Click here for the Mindfulness Coach app by the American Veterans Administration. It's AMAZING.

Listen to We Turned Out Okay in your favorite podcatcher!

Here are a few choice spots:

Apple Podcasts... http://bit.ly/WTOOApple

Spotify... http://bit.ly/WTOOSpotify

Stitcher Podcasts... Http://bit.ly/WTOOStitcher

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I'm playing my little game again today, trying to guess what you'll think the next value in our series is… (For those of you keeping score, this is Part 3 of 5.)
Today's is something even cooler, even bigger, and even more mind-blowing than exhilaration.
Which is saying something, because Exhilaration is my 2021 Word of the Year!

Thank you so much for listening! I am glad you're here <3
Karen

PS I have an invitation for you: if you haven't already, get to know me a little better by signing up for my weekly newsletter.
It's free, and I promise to hold your email address – and thus your heart – safely, in both my hands…
Go to https://weturnedoutokay.com/weekly to sign up : )

This episode's home-on-the-web: https://weturnedoutokay.com/368

The link to the second episode in this series (this is the third)… https://weturnedoutokay.com/367

Click https://weturnedoutokay.com/360 for my conversation with the amazing Julie Lythcott-Haims, which sometimes I still listen to and feel knocked on the head all over again – in a good way.

Listen to We Turned Out Okay in your favorite podcatcher!

Here are a few choice spots:

Apple Podcasts... http://bit.ly/WTOOApple

Spotify... http://bit.ly/WTOOSpotify

Stitcher Podcasts... Http://bit.ly/WTOOStitcher

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So, as I'm doing this series on the values that I hold most dear, I'm playing a little game with myself. I'm imagining you, asking yourself "can I guess today's value?"
All I can say is, if you guess creativity, you are wrong…
But not completely wrong.

Thank you so much for listening! I am glad you're here <3
Karen

PS I have an invitation for you: if you haven't already, get to know me a little better by signing up for my weekly newsletter.
It's free, and I promise to hold your email address – and thus your heart – safely, in both my hands…
Go to https://weturnedoutokay.com/weekly to sign up : )

This episode's home-on-the-web: https://weturnedoutokay.com/367

The link to the first episode in this series (this is the second)… https://weturnedoutokay.com/366

Click here for the link to the TED talk that I reference today, called The Birth of a Word.
It is awesome and you've got to listen to it!

Listen to We Turned Out Okay in your favorite podcatcher!

Here are a few choice spots:

Apple Podcasts... http://bit.ly/WTOOApple

Spotify... http://bit.ly/WTOOSpotify

Stitcher Podcasts... Http://bit.ly/WTOOStitcher

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I am excited to bring you into this, the first in a five-part series on really important subject – and a fun one too!
But I don't want to say too much about it. I want you to listen, and see if what you hear resonates.
For this first part though, I do have one question:
What should you be, in a world where you can be anything?

Thank you so much for listening! I am glad you're here <3
Karen

PS I have an invitation for you: if you haven't already, get to know me a little better by signing up for my weekly newsletter.
It's free, and I promise to hold your email address – and thus your heart – safely, in both my hands…
Go to https://weturnedoutokay.com/weekly to sign up : )

This episode's home-on-the-web: https://weturnedoutokay.com/366

Listen to We Turned Out Okay in your favorite podcatcher!

Here are a few choice spots:

Apple Podcasts... http://bit.ly/WTOOApple

Spotify... http://bit.ly/WTOOSpotify

Stitcher Podcasts... http://bit.ly/WTOOStitcher

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"Is this something that I care about, or is this something that someone else thinks I should care about?" – Shari Medini
That's what I almost called today's episode (but used another excellent quote from today's guest for brevity's sake : )
If you want a conversation about handling all the stuff that is flying at you…
If you want to feel better about the choices that you have that maybe you didn't even realize…
You will love this talk with Shari Medini, one half of the duo at Adore Them Parenting! Shari and her cofounder Karissa Tunis have written a great book, Parenting While Working from Home, and offer their help and support to parents from their website.
They brought me into their virtual summit this winter – you can hear the audio from my presentation at the end of today's episode in fact, presenting on a subject that is near and dear to my heart!

I know you're going to love our conversation!

Video of my conversation with Shari and my presentation for the Adore Them Summit: https://weturnedoutokay.com/365

Cheers! And thank you for listening!
Karen

PS I have an invitation for you: if you haven't already, get to know me a little better by signing up for my weekly newsletter.

It's free, and I promise to hold your email address – and thus your heart – in both my hands…
The newsletter is where I share my best essays, stories, and tools. Because it's more personal, it's even better than the podcast! Go to https://weturnedoutokay.com/weekly to sign up : )

Listen to We Turned Out Okay in your favorite podcatcher!

Here are a few choice spots:

Apple Podcasts... http://bit.ly/WTOOApple

Spotify... http://bit.ly/WTOOSpotify

Stitcher Podcasts... http://bit.ly/WTOOStitcher

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Greetings! Yes, on its surface this is a conversation (with 6-time returning champion Janine Halloran! So excited to bring her back to you!) about ADHD.

But it's about so much more.
It's about expectations, and how they create the roles our children inhabit.
It's about us, the roles we inhabit, and how we got here.
It's about what we can do that would be detrimental, or helpful – again, not just with the concerns of ADHD. But with so much more.
I'm excited to welcome you into this conversation, and I'm grateful that you are here!
Key links and video located at https://weturnedoutokay.com/364

Key Links

Click here for the video that I share in the intro, in which six photographers were told six different things about the same man – and as a result of their different expectations, they produce six completely different portraits of that man.

Click https://weturnedoutokay.com/191 for the conversation I share about in the intro, me talking with my 13-year-old son… He accuses me of being "Pollyanna-ish." It's a fascinating chat even if you don't happen to be this boy's mother!

Click https://weturnedoutokay.com/weekly to sign up for my weekly newsletters… Each is an invitation to go deeper with me. To get to know me better, to correspond, and to get support for your challenges. Completely free, just bring your open heart <3

Click http://copingskillsforkids.com to check out all of the useful and fun stuff that Janine is doing!

Click here for the amazing Rick Riordan book series about Percy Jackson and the Olympians.

Click here for an article about one of Dav Pilkey's Captain Underpants books, which the author withdrew from publication recently.

Click here for the Angst movie.

Click https://weturnedoutokay.com/194 for my conversation with awesome author Joshilyn Jackson, a New York Times best-selling fiction author (who shares on my show that she didn't feel empathy until she became a parent. A fascinating conversation!)

Click https://weturnedoutokay.com/324 for my conversation with Janine during OkayCon 2020, the video series I did to support parents during the pandemic… It was called "Why your child's behavior may be worse now than usual, and what to do about it, with Janine Halloran, LMHC"

Click https://weturnedoutokay.com/300 to hear my roundtable conversation with Janine, today's guest, and special-needs preschool teacher Tricia Tomaso. Two of my favorite humans on the whole planet, together in a fabulous roundtable discussion!

Click https://weturnedoutokay.com/361 for the first in this ADHD series, called "ADHD is not a result of parenting" – talking with pediatric occupational therapist Holly Peretz today!"

Listen to We Turned Out Okay in your favorite podcatcher!
Here are a few choice spots:

Apple Podcasts... http://bit.ly/WTOOApple

Spotify... http://bit.ly/WTOOSpotify

Stitcher Podcasts... http://bit.ly/WTOOStitcher

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Greetings! THERE ARE SWEARS TODAY…
So be sure to listen away from sensitive ears : )

My guest, Washington Post Parent Columnist Meghan Leahey, recorded this conversation with me back in February… and it feels even more relevant now, than when we recorded.

This episode will help you:
– Put important stuff in perspective
– Lay to rest a childhood demon or two
– Appreciate the absurdity inherent in our lives right now

Watch our conversation by going to https://weturnedoutokay.com/363
Key links just below.
Cheers! And thank you so much for listening!

Key Links
Connect with Meghan – and get her book, Parenting Outside the Lines! – at MLparentcoach.com

Today, the Parent Encouragement Program comes up because Meghan use to be part of that program! Check it out at https://pepparent.org/

My conversation with Katherine Reynolds Lewis (another Parent Encouragement Program alum) comes up today… Listen by going to https://weturnedoutokay.com/351

The We Turned Out Okay Playbook, my subscription-only, quality monthly playbook for parents, has gone digital! You can now get this essential tool for parental well-being either in your physical snail mailbox, or digitally!
Go to https://weturnedoutokay.com/playbook for details, and to subscribe.

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What's next? For many, that feels like the question of the moment.

As I recorded this episode, there were some hopeful notes in the air, but also some serious uncertainty.

A little more than a year ago everyone's lives were completely disrupted, and the stress and worry and fear that we've lived with for so long feels impenetrable.
What's next? This may be a frightening question. But it's also an exhilarating one, when looked at in a certain light.

If any or all of that is on your mind, I hope my conversation with author and community-builder Gail Clanton is helpful for you. Gail brings wonderful energy and ideas to your ears today!

You will learn:
– how to tap into your own creativity
– how to foster community, even with the way that we have been living since early 2020
– 3 ways to share your stories

It's a fantastic conversation, and I'm so grateful to Gail for coming on the show!

You can watch the video of our conversation by going to https://weturnedoutokay.com/362

Key Links just below.
Thanks for reading! Cheers!

Key Links

Gail has just published a beautiful memoir, Sparkle in the Rain; click here to see!

Her anthology Living in the Key of Joy comes out next month – click here to check it out : )

The Parenting in Place Masterclass comes up in our conversation; this masterclass has been a lifesaver for me and many others over the past year. Click this link to check it out: http://parentinginplacemasterclass.com

A couple writing resources that come up in our conversation today:
temi.com
KDP

In the preshow I share about two recent episodes that have helped me figure out "what's next"…
My conversation with Julie Lythcott-Haimes in episode 360 of the podcast
My conversation with coaching client Kate about pandemic survivor's guilt and so much more, episode 360.5 of the podcast

The We Turned Out Okay Playbook, my subscription-only, quality monthly playbook for parents, is going digital! You can now get this essential tool for parental well-being either in your physical snail mailbox, or digitally, if you'd rather enjoy a digital, than physical, copy!
Go to https://weturnedoutokay.com/playbook for details, and to subscribe.

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Greetings! Welcome to this first installment in my series on ADHD <3

I am honored and thrilled to bring you this conversation with pediatric occupational therapist – and mom of toddlers – Holly Peretz!
As you'll hear in our conversation, Holly knows lots about the challenges of raising young children.
In fact she's built an entire virtual summit around addressing these challenges, and thriving (both you, and your kids thriving, I mean.)

Click here to sign up for Holly's upcoming, amazing Toddler Play Conference – I am a speaker once again and so excited to be a part of this conference!

In today's conversation, Holly shares her knowledge of ADD and ADHD. Specifically we discuss how to know if your child has one of these neurodiversities, what to do around this whole subject that is helpful, and what to avoid doing.

Key links below – hope you enjoy this episode of We Turned Out Okay!

Key Links

Click here to register for the Toddler Play Conference, which begins Thursday 4/22/21! You can watch all the presentations for free in real time, and it's all online so you get to do it in your PJs if you wish!

Holly talks about The Explosive Child by Ross Greene… Click here for this seminal book.

I interviewed Tanya Trainor of Miss Tanya's Nursery Schools in an early episode of We Turned Out Okay; click the following link to listen! https://weturnedoutokay.com/167

If you'd like to read my first book, Positive Discipline Ninja Tactics, for free, click here.

My masterclass, What's the pandemic doing to my child?, is SOLD OUT – before we even made it out of the Early Bird pricing! If you are signed up, I can't wait to work with you on this important topic!
If you missed out on this one, stay tuned because I'll be offering other masterclasses soon.
In fact, sign up for my free weekly newsletters, https://weturnedoutokay.com/weekly, to find out about the next masterclass before the general public!

The We Turned Out Okay Playbook, my subscription-only, quality monthly playbook for parents, is going digital! Starting with the May issue you can now get this essential tool for parental well-being either in your physical American snail mailbox, or digitally, if you live outside of the US – or if you'd rather enjoy a digital, than physical, copy!
Go to https://weturnedoutokay.com/playbook for details, and to subscribe.

Video, links, and show notes for this episode are all located at https://weturnedoutokay.com/361

Thanks for being here!

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There is no manual for emerging from a pandemic, just as there is none for living through one.
So my private coaching client Kate's questions might be very familiar to you:
– "Am I being selfish?" (To send her child to in-person school, or summer camp.)
– How do we keep "the comfort of closeness" we've had during all this, but still foster a kid's independence?
– What about kids' physical safety – when they are not right next to us, when they are off doing normal childhood things (like school or summer camp)?
This is usually an off week for the podcast, but in speaking with Kate, the concerns she brought up and the stuff she is dealing with felt extremely relevant to what you are likely experiencing right now.
If you, like Kate – like me – are wondering about any of this, you are going to LOVE this episode.
Join us!

Key Links

In this conversation Kate shares about value she got from my book, Educating Happy Kids. For this and my other books, go to https://weturnedoutokay.com/books.

Click here to register for the Toddler Play Conference, which begins Thursday 4/22/21! If you have young children you won't want to miss this, Holly Peretz's second annual deep dive into living, dare I even say enjoying life, with toddlers. You can watch all the presentations for free in real time, and it's all online so you get to do it in your PJs if you wish!

My masterclass, What's the pandemic doing to my child?, is SOLD OUT – before we even made it out of the Early Bird pricing! If you are signed up, I can't wait to work with you on this important topic!
If you missed out on this one, stay tuned because I'll be offering other masterclasses soon.
In fact, sign up for my free weekly newsletters, https://weturnedoutokay.com/weekly, to find out about the next masterclass before the general public!

Video, links, and show notes for this episode are all located at https://weturnedoutokay.com/360.5

Thanks for being here!

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For this episode my guest, Julie Lythcott-Haims, wanted to be sure to let you all know: "this is not a show about parenting!"
This one's about us, the grown-ups.
Our lives, our choices, our challenges.
Julie was Dean of Freshman at Stanford University for a decade, and in that time she helped the young adults who arrived at college become true grown-ups. She also learned a lot!
In truth, Julie has learned a lot over her whole life. She is the New York Times best-selling author of How to Raise an Adult and one of my all-time favorite books ever, Real American (which chronicles her experience growing up Black and biracial in affluent circumstances in the United States.)
Julie's latest book, Your Turn: How to Be an Adult shares lots of her own stories as well as the stories of many other people, their challenges, and how they handled them. It's storytelling plus self-help with a beautiful result!
Put it this way: I've been an adult for a lot of years and I learned so much from this beautiful book.
I am OVER the MOON to bring you this awesome woman's ideas on how to handle the challenges that life sends your way.
Join us for a fast-moving, fun, and educational conversation [with swears! Be sure to listen away from littles, or other sensitive ears.]
There are all kinds of links just below, including to Julie's books, the two upcoming free virtual summits I'm speaking in… and info on how you can be invited to my birthday party, coming up on April 19th!
View our conversation in video, as well as seeing all show notes and links, by going to:
https://weturnedoutokay.com/360

Links That Come Up Today

Click here for Julie's latest book, Your Turn: How to Be an Adult

Click here for Julie's memoir about growing up Black and biracial in affluent America, Real American

Click here for her awesome book on parenting, How to Raise an Adult

Julie has plans to open a Membership Club! Click here for more information : )

Free Virtual Summit 1: On Thursday, April 8 I am presenting in a free virtual summit called Raising Remarkable Kids… Click here to register and hear me speak along with nine other parenting experts!

Free Virtual Summit 2: A bit later in April I'm speaking in the second annual Toddler Play Conference, run by the amazing Holly Peretz… Click here for details and to register for this conference, beginning April 21!

I've got a big birthday coming up soon, and to celebrate I'm having a party! It's an "Insight/Wisdom Party," and I'm inviting you to come along and share what you've learned in this crazy-ass year! Only folks who receive my free weekly email newsletter will receive the invitation, so click the following link to join my email group: https://weturnedoutokay.com/weekly
I'll see you at my party!

Click https://weturnedoutokay.com/000 to hear my "about the podcaster" show, in which my four best buddies and I share about our unplanned adventures.

Click https://weturnedoutokay.com/pdnt for your free copy of my first parenting book, Positive Discipline Ninja Tactics!

When I first met Julie, during her office hours in November 2020, I was so moved that I created an entire webpage sharing what I learned there: https://weturnedoutokay.com/julie

Julie is one of the amazing speakers in the ParentinginPlaceMasterclass.com.

Thank you so much for listening today! You rock!

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Greetings! In today's conversation my guest, Jessica Lahey, and I discuss some big and weighty issues… This would be a good episode to listen to away from sensitive ears or wearing headphones. (It's an awesome episode, just awesome for us grown-ups : )

I feel an immense sense of gratitude to Jess for coming back on the show (she is a returning champion! Click this link to listen to our first conversation: https://weturnedoutokay.com/054.)

Jess is the author of the new book The Addiction Inoculation (which you can order by clicking here! Squee!) Her ideas on educating kids, fostering a sense of trust while keeping children accountable to themselves, and her fearless examination of her own journey with substance abuse are what my gratitude is based in.

But Jess brings so much more to our conversation. She's funny, not afraid to laugh at herself, and super supportive of her audience, her family, and fellow writers. Talking with Jess is a learning opportunity about:
– What gaslighting is and how it hurts children
– How we can protect our kids against addiction
– How we can develop the most important habits (spoiler: it's through play and gamifying)

ALSO! It's the first in our new segment, Triumphs & Misdemeanors, where we get to hear your voices and either celebrate how you have knocked it out of the park – or commune with you if you share an epic fail…
Listen after my conversation with Jess to hear today's Triumph, and so you can write down the phone number and contribute your own Triumph, or Misdemeanor!

Click weturnedoutokay.com/359 to view this conversation in video, and for the bazillion links too! Key Links

Click here for Jess's new book, The Addiction Inoculation – you are going to love it!

Celebrate my birthday with me on Monday evening April 19! I'm hosting a Wisdom/Insight Party, the chance to be in community together, learn from each other and support each other after more than a year in the pandemic. It's completely free with no strings attached. Just come and enjoy!
Invitations are going out to those of you signed up for my free newsletter, so click this link to sign up: https://weturnedoutokay.com/weekly

Click this link for the masterclass I'm teaching, "What's the pandemic doing to my child?"… https://weturnedoutokay.com/pandemicclass

Click here for Jess's blog post, "Something Had to Give," about the alcohol addiction she confronted as she started writing her NYT bestseller, The Gift of Failure

Click here for the book Quit Like a Woman by Holly Whitaker

Click this link for my conversation with Ingrid Ali and Hamilton Graziano, the biracial couple Ben and I struck up a friendship with while we were on our second honeymoon, and they were on their first: https://weturnedoutokay.com/176

Click here for the Being Black at School organization begin by Kelly Wickham Hearst To help black children not feel gaslit

Click here for the show Hot Ones with Sean Evans

Click here for Shane Lopez's book, Making Hope Happen

Click here for the documentary Follow Through, about a student of Jess's

Click here for On Being 40 (ish) , and anthology which includes a piece from Jess

Click here for the #AmWriting episode where Jess and cohost KJ brought me onto their show!

Click here for OkayCon 2020, the Free virtual Summit, where I brought you 10 great conversations about getting through the pandemic (recorded in March and April 2020).

Get my first book FREE… It's called Positive Discipline Ninja Tactics, and parents find it extremely helpful in getting good behavior from their kids!
Click this link: https://weturnedoutokay.com/pdnt

Thank you so much for listening today! You rock!

__________________________________________

This episode is located on the web at: https://weturnedoutokay.com/358

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Greetings! Today I get to share a powerful conversation with Chloee, my one to one coaching client. Chloee has a toddler and the challenges she faces in caring for her daughter are likely concerns that you also have, regardless of the age of your children.

Here's what you'll learn by listening:
– How to address the challenges that Covid brings
– How to make a crucial choice, one that we all must make every day
– How to deal with temper tantrums, especially when we must say "no" to our kids

I encourage you to be coached while you listen.
By that I mean: when I ask Chloee a question, hit pause.
Consider the question for yourself and your situation.
Even, write down your responses.
(And if you want to experience the power of coaching with me, I am opening up some spaces for a few completely free, no-strings-attached, deep and magical coaching conversations! If you'd like one of them to be yours, write me, karen (at) weturnedoutokay (dot) com !)

I'm excited to listen back to this one with my Mom Hat on, because I'm sure I'll learn so much from this talk with Chloee about how to handle the concerns she raises with my own kids (who are 16 and 20!)

This is a digest episode, which means that you should stay tuned after my conversation with Chloee! Listen for:
– How to handle information overload
– A new program I'm offering, "What's the pandemic doing to my child?"
– An update – including the phone number! – for our new podcast segment, Triumphs and Misdemeanors (this segment starts in our next episode! Squee!)

What's the Pandemic Doing to My Child? – A new program I'm offering you might be interested in…

Working with private clients over these last several months, I’ve heard again and again of worries about what the pandemic is doing to children.

As a child development expert, not only do I know the answer to that; I know what to do about it.
Beginning in May 2021 I will offer a five-week program covering:

– The toll that long-term confinement and sequestration from others can cause
– Strategies to handle this long-term confinement and limit the negative impacts
– Creating a home environment that supports the social and emotional development your child needs
– Dealing with reentry including handling anxiety, bullies, and other social concerns

All along we’ll be diving into your specific questions and issues.
To make absolutely sure that you have a plan going forward we’ll spend our last class time together in a Q&A, so you can have all your concerns addressed and questions answered.

We will even have an accelerator call – an extra session to spend together – before the program begins in May so I can be sure I’m addressing your concerns and giving you all the support I can.

If that sounds good to you, I’m offering a special earlybird price…

Sign up for my FREE weekly newsletter to be notified of this and other programs I offer:

Click https://weturnedoutokay.com/weekly

Cheers! And thanks for listening!!

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Greetings! In today's episode we examine the process of getting what our heart longs for, in a coaching conversation with one of my 1-to-1 coaching clients!
As you'll hear, Regan is a mom and an attorney, currently (along with her husband) working from home while their children are home as well, in in virtual/hybrid school.
Regan gets courageous and vulnerable with us today. She shares the dream of her heart for her kids… and what she's doing each and every day to help make that dream come true.
In our conversation you'll learn:
– How to get your heart's desire
– The importance of big dreams and tiny action steps
– Making both your superpower AND the dark side of that superpower work for you in achieving your dreams

Lately I've been asking coaching clients "what makes my coaching magical?" (You'll hear Regan and I talk about this in this episode.)
The answers I'm getting back are fascinating – it turns out that something I'm really good at is helping parents stop treading the conventional path and do what works for THEM, and their family.
We all have dreams. What are you doing to make yours reality?
If you're ready to go on the adventure of your life with me as your guide, write me, and let's talk!

Plus… This is a digest episode, so in addition to our conversation I'm bringing you a story that I recently sent to the folks in my free email newsgroup! Click this link to get weekly letters like this delivered right to your inbox: weturnedoutokay.com/weekly

I share about the "Parents Working from Home" free virtual summit that I'm honored to be included in (happening this coming Saturday 2/27, 10 AM to 1 PM EST).

And, I give you an update on a new segment of this podcast: it's called Triumphs and Misdemeanors, and I hope you will be a part of it!
Join us!
Key Links:
Click here for psychologist – and friend-of-the-podcast – Shannon Connery's recent episode of her Fix Yourself podcast, in which she talks about energy level and a way to think of it that's been really helpful for me recently. Maybe it will be helpful for you, too!

Click here for the weekly planner that Regan and I discuss in this episode. The planner was once exclusively for people in my Ninja Parenting Community, but I am sharing it here with you today in hopes that it will help you to see your entire week in one half sheet piece of printer paper. Enjoy!

Click here to sign up for the free Parenting While Working from Home Virtual Summit taking place Saturday February 27 from 10 AM to 1 PM EST. (Also I'll be stopping by the Facebook group associated with the Virtual Summit between noon and 1 PM EST. Maybe I'll see you there!)

Click here to read the story that I share today in the latter part of this episode, called "What my Italian relatives know about the off-season."
(This is also where you can see the picture I mention in today's episode, me in Venice in 1992, wearing quite a sweater : )

Click the following link to view the show notes from today's episode on my website: weturnedoutokay.com/357

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Get my best advice for handling the challenges that come up on your parenting journey, through the We Turned Out Okay podcast:

Listen in your favorite podcatcher!

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Due to the content of our conversation, today's episode is going to be a good one to listen AWAY from sensitive ears… I think you're going to love today's conversation, I know I did! But some topics may be a little intense for, well, littles.

Greetings! I am super excited to bring today's guest to you, educator and parent coach Sarah Scheldt, M.Ed.!
In today's conversation I'll introduce you to Sarah, so you can come to know her and the incredibly helpful, giving person she is.

Today Sarah discusses:
- How to handle your kids' toughest days and biggest feelings
- How to take care of yourself in the midst of everything going on in your life
- Handling when we do push ourselves too far

Early on in the pandemic Sarah wanted to reach parents outside of her classroom of kids. So she created an amazing free Virtual Summit on "empowering kids." I felt so honored to be included in the expert speakers for that summit!
Sarah's second free online series, Kids' Healthy Bodies, starts on February 15!
(Yay! Click here to sign up!)

In our conversation today Sarah shares on how this upcoming free Virtual Summit will help you get a handle on talking to kids about potentially tough topics like their own bodies, sex, consent, and stopping child sexual abuse.

I'm honored to be a part of this series as well, talking about what to do if you have been the victim of sexual abuse… and you are now raising kids.
There will be experts on all kinds of topics around children and their healthy bodies, so be sure to sign up!

I know you're going to love today's conversation… If you'd like to see us visually, in addition to listening, you can find the video for this conversation by clicking https://weturnedoutokay.com/356

I hope you find our talk super helpful!
Cheers!
Karen

Links from today's conversation:

Click here to sign up for Sarah Scheldt's upcoming Free Virtual Summit on Kids' Healthy Bodies – I'm one of the expert speakers, so I know how awesome this series is going to be.

Click here for the Yo-Yo Ma documentary, Distant Echoes, on the time that Ma spent with the Bush People of the Kalahari Desert, learning how they make music – and meaning.

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Greetings! Today I've got five ways that parents I work closely with are keeping going…

Because even though we can see some hope on the horizon, circumstances on the ground are, shall we say, not ideal.

So if you need a little help getting good behavior from your kids, feeling seen and heard and cared for in your life, or feeling happy inside, here are five ways you may not have considered yet to accomplish those tasks.…

Plus the Parenting News Segment returns today, with reports on how to not use social-emotional learning for evil, and also something called "toxic positivity."
Join us!
Here are the links that come up today:
This episode's home-on-the-web is weturnedoutokay.com/355

In the first few minutes of today's show I share (a little bit) about my experience of being sexually abused when I was seven years old. This comes up in my first book, Positive Discipline Ninja Tactics, in the chapter called How to Help if Something's Wrong; you can buy the book by clicking here

I share about being hospitalized with diverticulitis last fall in episode 349: Kindergarten Evals, Parent-Teacher-Conferences, and Lessons I learned from being hospitalized last week, weturnedoutokay.com/349

Beloved Ninja Parenting Community alum Jen came on the show in summer 2019 to talk about how she got control over the direction her family is going: weturnedoutokay.com/288

In episode 300 of We Turned Out Okay, two amazing and close friends of mine, licensed mental health counselor Janine Halloran and veteran preschool teacher Tricia Tomaso came on the show, and unbeknownst to each other (or me) they both brought the same topic: Social Emotional Learning… Weturnedoutokay.com/300

Speaking of Janine Halloran, she's going to be an expert speaker in the Parenting in Place Masterclass Series this winter! Register for this awesome series by going to parentinginplacemasterclass.com

Today I share that I am planning a new segment of the show… that it's going to include input from our wonderful listeners… and the first people who will know about it are those who get my free weekly newsletters!
Find out what's up by subscribing for these newsletters yourself: weturnedoutokay.com/weekly

If you want to start getting my free weekly newsletters AND you've got reluctant or unhappy readers at home, sign up for my free Guide to Creating Happy Readers at weturnedoutokay.com/readers

Thank you for listening and reading! You rock!

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Greetings and best wishes for 2021!! This is my annual goals and sharing of the Word of the Year. (Last year's: ENOUGH. I apparently was really prescient in January 2020... This year's: EXHILARATED. Should be fun!)
As with everything in the pandemic, it's different from other New Year's episodes that have come before. But I hope it's helpful for you as you create a good life, and a good year, for your family and yourself.

Some of my goals last year I completely, epically failed at bringing about.
Some of them I did a little bit better with.

One of the most important things I learned was to make a goal be "a place to come from," rather than something to work towards. Seriously, this has been a huge game-changer for me.

I share about that process and give you ideas for trying it out yourself today.

Finally I read you one of my most recent newsletters, "Hello 2021! Please be kind to us."
You can get these newsletters delivered for free right into your inbox just by signing up for one of my free guides available at weturnedoutokay.com… Or go to weturnedoutokay.com/weekly

Key Links:
Click weturnedoutokay.com/312 for last year, January 2020's Goals and One Word episode. Listening back I was such a pre-pandemic naïve little baby then! I've grown a lot in 2020. I bet you have too. Ultimately this is a good thing, I think. We are such badasses now!

Click here for a book I am loving, 100 Truths You Will Learn Too Late by Luca Dellanna

Click weturnedoutokay.com/books to see the parenting books I have written

Click here for my most recent newsletter, "Hello 2021! Please be kind to us."

Click weturnedoutokay.com/354 to watch the video of today's episode.

Cheers! I hope 2021 is REALLY kind to you <3

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Hi friends! This is a bonus episode that I recorded to help you in the wake of January 6, 2021's storming of the United States Capitol Building by domestic terrorists, or (as you'll hear in today's episode) people that featured WTOO guest and NYT best-selling author Joshilyn Jackson calls "known jackasses."
I want to give you some resources to help you remain calm – because that is what your kiddo needs from you today.
I am more grateful than I can say that you are listening, I can almost feel us holding hands and standing together today…
I will have links posted (at weturnedoutokay.com/353-5) ASAP, but for now I just want you to be able to hear my words and know that you can remain calm, for your child and for yourself. No matter what is going on in your world, or in the wider world.
And I am here with you.
xoxo, Karen

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Greetings! I've got a whole slew of awesome questions for you today (you can read the questions in their entirety just below : )

Here are the Key Links that come up in today's episode, located at weturnedoutokay.com/353
You should go to that link above if you would like to see the video of this episode (instead of just listening in audio)…

Cheers and thanks for listening!
Karen

Links that come up today:

My free guide to raising happy readers: weturnedoutokay.com/readers

If you'd like to get useful tools and parenting ideas in your inbox each week, without the guide to happy readers: weturnedoutokay.com/weekly

Click here for one of the many wonderful Elephant and Piggy books by Mo Willems

Click here for a book that your family might enjoy with new readers, You Read to Me, I'll Read to You

How NOT to teach your child to ride a bike: https://weturnedoutokay.com/092-how-to-teach-your-young-child-to-ride-a-bike/

Click the following link for one of the very early episodes I did, about how kids develop grit:
https://weturnedoutokay.com/002/

Click the following link for my conversation with Amy Anderson, about how to know if your young child is consenting:
https://weturnedoutokay.com/066

Click the following link for my conversation with Carey Andersen, sharing her story of her child's nonconsent to a bad kindergarten situation and what they did about it:
https://weturnedoutokay.com/045

Click the following link for my conversation with Debbie Reber of the TiLT Parenting Podcast:
https://weturnedoutokay.com/350

Okay, just below are the questions!
Thanks for reading and listening! Cheers!

Tish: What do I say to my 6 year old who can't seem to keep his hands out of his pants?

How do I win when trying to get 2 6 year old(s) to practice reading and not lose my mind? It's a nightmare everyday. I've tried to bribe, threaten, prayed loudly, and I can't seem to find anything that works. It's not as bad when they are out of school and we can do it in the mornings but the evenings are a nightmare every. single. day. Not doing it is not an option. We'll be further behind than we are now. Whether we think this is "right" or not doesn't mean they will change their policy. We are on Book 4 out of 12 we have to read to go the 2nd grade. Surviving... because this too will pass. Anonymous: We are in the midst of struggling mightily on [my five-year-old’s] second med trial for ADHD. This one is not making any difference at school except he’s even more talkative and then he’s having a huge emotional crash and sobbing meltdowns in the evenings. Working with the doctor to figure out a new plan this week! Other than that just powering through end of year work chaos. Trying to stay positive as I hear this is so common to have to try a few meds but it’s hard! So we are in survival mode but going to make the most of the holidays!

[Karen:] FYI I have discovered some biases in myself, and as a result I'm going to do some more research into this whole issue – meds, ADD, ADHD, coping mechanisms both for kids and parents. This deserves at least an episode, and possibly a series. Stay tuned <3

Jen: My daughter, age 8 already, wants to ride a bicycle again. She had a typical bike fall a year ago (a scrape on the knee, just a run of the mill slow-speed fall that comes from learning how to balance) and has been avoiding the bike ever since. Typical for her high anxiety. She tells me she's afraid of falling again and she wants to ride on the school running track, which we did one time when she was 5, before we knew it wasn't allowed. She is also concerned that the training wheels send an unpleasant rumble into her body when she rides on asphalt. Uneven pavement or rocks or sticks make her afraid of falling. My concerns are the school rule, and driving 15 minutes or less. Our rural home has no paved areas at all, and so any riding involves packing up the car and driving to a safe place. But every time we talk about biking, and try to work out where we might go, she gets frustrated that nothing meets her criteria. We simply can't use the running track. She understands that intellectually, and she isn't asking me to break the rule. She's hoping, I guess, that I have some amazing cushiony place where she can fall without risk of hurting herself. Since I don't, she gets frustrated and cries that she'll never be able to ride a bike. She wants to get good enough to remove the training wheels, because she sees her 6yo sister without training wheels having a ball, and she doesn't want the unpleasant rumble that comes with leaning onto the training wheels. I'm at a loss here. How can I support her desire to practice, when the practice itself is too scary for her?

Mumma Bear: What’s in my mind is more emotional development tips and techniques. Im still battling with somewhat ‘explosive’ outbursts from Lil Bear and I’d like a bigger range of tools for this moment in our lives. I feel like I’m pretty emotionally immature (although my best friend says, No way - listen to yourself!) and that I wasn’t really taught to process my feelings (not a top priority in the 1970s!) or really ‘deal’ with them. So I most frequently find myself thinking, “Just get a grip, kiddo!” So, for me, just keep those tips coming. Celia: Once we can start doing “stuff” again, how do we make sure we don’t overdo it and still hold onto some of the unity and rhythm we’ve found as a family while we were isolated from other forces? And... this year E turns 5 and “should” start kindergarten. She turns 5 in late august and our cutoff is sept 1. She’s already the “baby” in her preK class and I am assuming a lot of parents held their children back in 2019 since our district was virtual, so she’ll be likely joining kids who are already 6 and maybe even close to 7. How do we know if she is ready for kindergarten??? Thanks so much for all of your support this year! I have high hopes for your 2021 :)

Q: "Perhaps we should be instilling resilience by still expecting them to try their best. Because being emotionally healthy and trying one’s best are not mutually exclusive during Covid."

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Today I am so thrilled to share this conversation with a returning champion – Erik Wagter – and his wife, author Sally Wagter.

Together Sally and Erik are raising a family, and their older son has autism. (My conversation with Erik, way back in episode 75, is located here.

In fact when their son was young Erik and Sally were told "he will never live a normal life" because his autism would prevent him from using language meaningfully or even making meaningful connections with anyone.
Thank goodness, Sally and Erik refused to believe that. They charted a different path for their family. Now their son has gone far beyond anyone's expectations, playing music beautifully, enjoying deep and meaningful friendships, and living a truly examined and thoughtful life.
Sally has written a book about her experience raising their son, called Miracle in Slow Motion. You can find the link to this book, as well as Erik and Sally's podcast, at releasingmychildspotential.com.

We talk about all this and more in today's conversation, even diving into one of my favorite topics, the toll raising children takes on parents (whether kids are typical or diagnosed with special needs).

It's part of a digest episode, so you'll hear our wonderful conversation and then I will read you a recent newsletter that I wrote called "Changing bras," which looks the toll parenting takes on us from a slightly different angle (Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly to get newsletters like this delivered into your inbox each week : )

Find this post, and the links we discuss, in your browser by going to weturnedoutokay.com/352

If you're interested in subscribing to the We Turned Out Okay Playbook, which I share about during today's episode, go to weturnedoutokay.com/playbook

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Cheers –
Karen

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Enrollment is OPEN for the 2021 Year of Empowerment!
Enroll now to save 33% on your Year of Empowerment:
This special ends New Year's Eve, December 31 2020 at 11:59 PM EST. Don’t miss your chance to empower 2021 for you and your family.
Details at weturnedoutokay.com/empowerment : )

"In 25 years, what will matter to me?" When Katherine Reynolds Lewis, author of the outstanding book The Good News About Bad Behavior and today's guest, shared this question during our conversation, I knew it had to be the title of the episode.

It encompasses all the most important ideas that Katherine brings. The ones that keep reminding me about what's most important. It's not grades, or how perfectly our kids sit during online schooling. It's not the world's cleanest house, or how perfectly we manage our home.

The most important thing – the thing that will matter most even 25 years from now – is the connection and the relationship that we have with our loved ones.

Today's conversation is so full of connection, and love, and hope.
It's part of a digest episode, so you'll hear our wonderful conversation and then I will read you a recent newsletter that I wrote called "Kind words." (Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly to get newsletters like this delivered into your inbox each week : )
I hope you enjoy this episode!
Cheers –
Karen
PS you can watch our conversation (instead of just listening) by going to weturnedoutokay.com/351…

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Hello! So quickie bonus episode with me are never as quickie as I imagine they would be, but this one will hopefully be informative for you!
In it, I share about the only group coaching I'm offering in 2021.
As a child development expert and parent coach I have given lots of thought on what I could offer that will have the most impact on the well-being of you, and your family, over the coming year.
I've come up with something exciting!

It's called the 2021 Year of Empowerment Program, and it will help you:
– feel in charge of your destiny and your family's direction
– know that you are making the right decisions for you and your family
– live your best life and model that for your kids.

Enrolling means you will spend 2021:
– Getting good behavior from your children
– Advocating for them, helping them love learning and get the best education possible, no matter how bad all of this feels right now
– Feeling good about getting the self-care time that you need and deserve

I expect that spots will fill up quickly, as there are only 20 to begin with and especially with the Black Friday special I'm offering, 50% off the cost of the program!

To get notified when enrollment opens go to:
https://weturnedoutokay.com/weekly

If you've got any questions email me, Karen (at) weturnedoutokay (dot) com.
Thanks for reading/listening and Cheers!
Karen

Click the link below to learn more about the 2021 Year of Empowerment:
https://weturnedoutokay.com/empowerment

Click the link below to get notified when enrollment opens:
https://weturnedoutokay.com/weekly

Here are the FAQs in written form:
FAQs about the 2021 Year of Empowerment Program

– What is the age range for people's kids in the program?
Parents with kids in all ages and stages of childhood, from babies and toddlers on up to teens, are welcome.
The issues that parents are confronting have kind of converged since the onset of the pandemic.
There are no conventions anymore. Everything is unprecedented. Parents with children of every age are feeling this seismic shift.
As a result the Year of Empowerment will be a great, supportive community for parents with kids of all ages. It will help you build the life that you really want within your family.

– How will this program work?
The 2021 Year of Empowerment Program has two main facets:
1. Each month of 2021 we will have a group coaching conversation, a powerful, in-depth, 90 minute call diving into the different aspects of empowerment including advocating for your kids, establishing boundaries so you only ever do what feels truly good for you, and modeling a wonderful and empowering life for your family.

1. A year’s subscription to the acclaimed We Turned Out Okay Playbook!
   The Playbook provides a place for you to envision and build out your life and your family’s future.

The 2021 Year of Empowerment program includes a whole year – 12 issues – of the Playbook, one each month, delivered directly to your mailbox! (US only; internationally you’ll receive the digital version of the Playbook.)

Each month you’ll receive this top-shelf publication that shapes your thinking in a very positive and gratitude-centered way.
(Learn more about the Playbook at https://weturnedoutokay.com/playbook)
Between our monthly calls and the daily, positive and creative thinking opportunities the Playbook offers, the 2021 Year of Empowerment Program gives you extremely powerful tools to shape your life how you want it.

– What if I can't make a meeting?
That is absolutely fine… You can be committed and still not be able to get to every single meeting over the course of a whole year.
So, each monthly meeting and the PDF of each month's We Turned Out Okay Playbook will be placed in the password-protected 2021 Year of Empowerment Resource Hub.
That way, you'll be able to go back and watch meetings as often as you like, and you'll have PDFs of each Playbook as they come out.
Any resources such as worksheets, notes, or links will also be placed in the resource hub, where you will have access to everything for the duration of the program.

– What days and times will the meetings be?
I want this program to work for you, wherever you live and whatever your time zone. As a result this is a crucial question, something very important to get right.
In designing the program I am thinking either Saturday afternoons like 3 PM EST, or a weeknight with a very late EST start time, say, 10 PM, is where we will end up, perhaps even alternating months between these time periods.
I really want to make it work for those of you who are considering making this commitment.
Therefore I would love your feedback! What meeting times would work best for you? Just hit reply to this email and let me know.

– What technology will be necessary? Will it be complex?
Not at all, we're using basic, easy tech in the Year of Empowerment Program.
You'll need only your email, your web browser, and Zoom (which we'll use for our monthly meetings.)
Speaking as someone whose twitter name used to be StoneAgeTechie, I know the pain of complicated tech!
I want to make this easily accessible for everyone who joins.

– Will I be able to access the 2021 Year of Empowerment Program on my phone or tablet?
Absolutely : ) It will be a mobile-friendly program, and of course will also be accessible on your laptop or desktop computer.

– Will there be the choice of a payment plan?
Yes, you'll have the option to pay either in full, or in three installments. I'll share the details on Monday 11/23 when I open enrollment in the Program.

– Will there be refunds?
The 2021 Year of Empowerment Program is for folks who are truly committed to building a great future for themselves and their family.There are no refunds.It will be worth every penny.
– Are there any prerequisites to the Year of Empowerment Program?
You do not have to have been in any program of mine before, whether workshops, courses, or the Ninja Parenting Community.
The only prerequisites are your positive energy and your commitment to building the future that you want for your family.
I anticipate that spots will go fast.

Especially with the Black Friday special – normally the Program costs $3000, but if you join by Cyber Monday, November 30, 2020 you can join for half that, just $1500!

Here are some quickie facts about the program:

• Enrolling in the 2021 Year of Empowerment Program means you will spend 2021 transforming your future, and your family’s.
• Each month you’ll experience the magic of my best, most transformative ideas and tools to build your life how you want it.
• There are only 20 spots available.
• This is the only group coaching I’m offering in all of 2021. I anticipate spots will fill up quickly.
• It’s for folks who are truly committed to building a great future for themselves and their family.
• It's the most affordable option to work with me in 2021.
• There are no refunds.
• It will be worth every penny.

Enrollment will open this coming Wednesday 11/25/20, and when it does I will send an email to everyone who is in my email group sharing details and the link to enroll.… Click the link below to join the email group
https://weturnedoutokay.com/weekly

In the meantime I hope you have a lovely weekend. Cheers and thanks for reading/listening <3

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There are just 20 spots available in my 2021 Year of Empowerment coaching program for parents… Don't miss your chance to join this powerful program!
Be notified when I open enrollment for the 2021 Year of Empowerment Program (enrollment begins 11/23!) by clicking the link below:
https://weturnedoutokay.com/weekly

I am super excited to bring you today's episode, which includes so much good that my heart is practically bursting : )
It's a digest episode, and the first part is my conversation with Debbie Reber, founder of the TiLT Parenting Podcast, http://tiltparenting.com, and author of one of my favorite books, Differently Wired: Raising an Exceptional Child in a Conventional World.

Somewhere in the first few minutes we decide to depart from a kind of standard interview, Q&A sort of conversation and dive into something much better and more fun!

Here are some of Debbie's ideas that felt so transformative for me:
– "I love that you mention taking care of your body…" Debbie goes on to share how important this idea is, and how often we truly do forget.
(My forgetting, as I share today, landed me in the hospital just a few weeks before our conversation.)

– "Asking "What if I had no agenda at all?""… Debbie brings this up in reference to children and learning. If we don't have an agenda, we are free to just be in the moment and enjoying the time with our children. And more – if we don't have an agenda we are free to allow our kids on a voyage of self-discovery. This is crucial, even more so with the world turned upside down from the pandemic.

– "I have permission to do whatever I want and feel whatever I feel."… Debbie shares this as a way of diffusing judgment. Giving ourselves this permission is so freeing.

I hope this conversation is transformational for you, too!

In Part 2 I read an essay I wrote recently, called "A hard decision I have made."
It shares about the decision I recently made to close my Ninja Parenting Community – and after I read it, I share about something I'm truly excited about, the group coaching program I'm offering for 2021 called "The Year of Empowerment."

2021: The Year of Empowerment Program:

… Helps you combat the challenge of others walking all over you, so you feel in charge of your destiny and your family's direction.

… Helps you overcome your fears about your child's behavior and others'' judgment of that behavior or your parenting. So you know that you are making the right decisions for you and your family.

… Helps you stop feeling guilty or unworthy so you can live your best life and model that for your kids.

Each month of 2021 you'll be empowered to truly take the reins in your family life.

You will know how to get good behavior from your child.

You will know how to advocate for them, to help them love learning and get the best education possible – no matter how bad all of this feels right now.

You will know how to feel good about getting the self-care time you need and deserve.

How will this program work?

1. Each month of 2021 we will have a group coaching conversation, a powerful, in-depth, 90 minute call diving into the different aspects of empowerment including:

– The setting of proper boundaries to eliminate toxic people from your life

– Learning to say "no," so you only participate in and do what feels truly good for you

– Advocating for your child

– Learning the tenets of positive discipline, so your child does not walk all over you anymore

– Teaching your child about the world

– Living a truly wonderful and empowering life

– Consequently modeling "how to live a truly wonderful and empowering life" for your family

1. A year's subscription to the acclaimed We Turned Out Okay Playbook!
   The We Turned Out Okay Playbook provides a place for you to envision and build out your life and your family's future.

The 2021 Year of Empowerment program includes a whole year – 12 issues – of the Playbook, one each month, delivered directly to your mailbox!

Each month you'll receive the Playbook, my top-shelf publication that shapes your thinking in a very positive and gratitude-centered way.
(Learn more about the Playbook at:
https://weturnedoutokay.com/playbook)

Between our monthly calls and the daily, positive and creative thinking opportunities the Playbook offers, you have extremely powerful tools to shape your life how you want it.

Cost and How to Enroll:

The program costs $3000 for the year 2021.

There are just 20 spots available.

I'm offering a Black Friday special: 50% off!

Just $1500 instead of the usual $3000!

I'm opening up enrollment in the 2021 Year of Empowerment on Monday 11/23/20…

Click the link below and sign up to get notified when enrollment begins!
https://weturnedoutokay.com/weekly

Cheers!
And thanks for listening/reading!

Karen
Karen Lock Kolp, M.Ed.
Creator and Founder of https://weturnedoutokay.com
View this post, video of our conversation, and all notes and links in your browser by clicking the link below:
https://weturnedoutokay.com/350

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As a child development expert one of the most important jobs I have is to give parents permission to disagree with teachers or other authority figures in their children's lives.
Starting at around the 50-minute mark we talk about that. It's coming up for many podcast listeners and Ninja Parents right now, and it's important to discuss!

But first, I share three super important lessons that I learned the hard way recently, by ending up in the hospital with diverticulitis. It's the illness I had nine years ago that brought on the tendon condition that I lived with ever since, so there was some serious PTSD in getting it again!
It was no accident that I got it now, in the pandemic with pressure mounting societally, in our home, and with the families I serve.

I got it by failing to adhere to these lessons, which I will list for you right now:

1. On the Human-Dehumanized Axis, stay close to the Human side.
Maybe it means unplugging, but it definitely means connecting more on a human level.
Be sure that, when connecting with folks having to do with your child, that they are very human too.

2. Remember that sugar is an inflammatory food.
What we need is good nutrition! I'm a living example of what happens when you don't get that.

3. Understand your own worth.
How you think about yourself matters. I forgot that, and had to undergo a very painful and scary illness as a result.

Most of all, in thinking about these three lessons I want you to think about where you are "coming from" with regard to them.
This isn't about me telling you "here's a list of stuff you need to do."
It's about coming from a place of human connection.
It's about coming from a place of good nutrition, most of the time, without worry or pressure.
It's about coming from a place of feeling worthy – both for ourselves, and for what we model for our children.

Here are the links that come up in today's conversation:

I am a featured speaker in the Virtual Summit, which you can enjoy for free by clicking here:
https://www.sarahscheldt.com/empoweryourparentingonlineseries

Click here for episode 279, my conversation with picky eating coach Jacky Lemenzo

For the first time since creating the We Turned Out Okay Playbook, as a result of my hospitalization I'm doing it myself (instead of just writing it for others)!
Click https://weturnedoutokay.com/playbook to learn more about the Playbook!

Click here for episode 270, my conversation with creative coach Dan Blank.

Thank you for being along on this journey with me! You rock!
Cheers! And thanks for listening/reading to this, episode 349, which you can view on the web by going to:
weturnedoutokay.com/349

Karen
Karen Lock Kolp, M.Ed.
Creator and Founder of https://weturnedoutokay.com

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I’m so excited to bring you returning champions Evie Granville and Sarah Davis of Modern Manners for Moms and Dads today!

You’ll learn why the kind of parent that we are matters, especially right now… and you’ll hear how these two wonderful educators take my very cynical Roundtable question and turn it around. You’ll also hear their awesome Roundtable questions for us all to discuss – one pertains to the election, and so I felt I had to publish this episode today, so you’ve got a couple weeks to listen!

Evie and Sarah brought me onto their show in early March 2020, just before the pandemic changed everything. If you listen to that episode, you’ll notice that I identify myself as one kind of parent (what Evie and Sarah would now call a Crescent-style parent)… When I bring them onto my show in episode 340, just a few months later – but after our world has completely changed – my parenting style has completely changed too. I’ve become a Constellation-style parent. For all the wrong reasons!

In the interview portion of today’s episode, I share about my current parenting style, a perfect split between Crescent and Constellation, and how I’ve made my peace with that.

We also talk about their new book! It’s called Modern Manners for Moms and Dads, and you can download the first chapter for free by clicking here: http://evieandsarah.com/book!

Did you notice, I referred to the “interview portion” of today’s episode?

That’s because as I have moved into publishing every other week, it’s opened up really interesting and cool opportunities for making the show just a little different.

We still talk about the same important things. It’s still all about helping you feel cared for, no matter what your circumstances are.

I’m just doing that in different ways that never presented themselves when I released an episode every week.

So for the first half hour or so, I share things like the Parenting News (a REALLY good one today) and some things I’m offering, like

– this week’s Free Live Training on handling worries in a playful way (it’s this coming Friday 10/23/20, sign up here: https://weturnedoutokay.com/weekly)

– the sweet, 3-months-for-the-rate-of-2 deal I’m offering on the We Turned Out Okay Playbook (https://weturnedoutokay.com/playbook)

– how much you’re enjoying the powerful, even magical private coaching calls so many of you have scheduled with me (schedule yours by going to https://weturnedoutokay.com/contact; they are completely free of charge and with no strings attached)

– the Self-care Bootcamp we are doing throughout the American election week, 11/2-11/6, in the Ninja Parenting Community (you can try the Community for your whole first month for just $3, just by clicking https://weturnedoutokay.com/courage!

Then Evie, Sarah, and I have our fantastic conversation…

And after THAT I read you an essay that I’ve written. It’s called Socks and Medicine and Fear and Love (you can read it by clicking here.)

I hope it helps you frame the small, daily choices that you have a little differently. If you, like me, are prone to coming from fear in these small daily choices, I hope it helps you come from a place of love for yourself. Because I truly believe that the only way you can come from a place of love for others.

Click the following link if you’d like more essays like this in your life: https://weturnedoutokay.com/weekly.

And click the following link to view this post in your browser: https://weturnedoutokay.com/348.

Cheers! And thanks for listening/reading!

Karen

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With all the talk recently about something called “patriotic learning,” I wanted to bring you an episode to help you understand how education can become a political football, what that really means for your child, and what you can do about it.
So I called on my friend, historian Gary Gregory. Gary runs a tour company, Lessons on Liberty, bringing folks into the history of the Revolutionary War.
He also runs The Printing Office of Edes and Gill, where he uses the technology of the 1700s to create real documents from that time period, and to bring people into that time period.
Gary knows a lot about history, both real and revisionist, and brings us his wisdom today!
Hope you enjoy this episode!

There are about a million links, and you can find all of them here:
weturnedoutokay.com/347-part-2

Cheers!

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Greetings! If this feels like a pretty ambitiously named episode, well, that's because this is where we are in fall 2020.
We are on the bleeding edge of crisis parenting, and there is a feeling in the air of "this is where our society fails or succeeds."
(At least that's how it feels to me! You are very welcome to disagree. Either way, I hope this episode gives you a roadmap to success on your parenting journey, and some hope.)

Whether a society succeeds or fails is in large part dependent upon the how that society raises its children.

In this episode I offer five ways to think about this idea:
1. A society will fail by operating from a place of fear…
A society will succeed by operating from a place of love.

1. A society will fail by rejecting change and diversity…
   A society will succeed by accepting both of these key qualities and using them to move forward together.

2. A society will fail by looking past – ignoring – that which is right in front of it, but which is difficult to look at…
   A society will succeed by understanding what is right in front of it, the matter how difficult or upsetting that information is.

3. A society will fail by stunting and mis-shaping children's development…
   A society will succeed by embracing children, wherever they are in their development, and by playing to their children's strengths.

4. A society will fail by putting up barriers and excluding those who don't share similar beliefs…
   A society will succeed by choosing to connect on a human level, with compassion and empathy, regardless of beliefs.

Thank you for listening! I hope you find this one helpful!
(View this post on my website by going to weturnedoutokay.com/347-part-1)

Announcements and Links… 1. I am a part of the Emergency Home Learning Summit, a 2-month long Virtual Summit that is free to watch in real time! My talk is coming up this Thursday, and that's not all. The creators of the Summit are making it possible for speakers to do really cool virtual things, like live Office Hours!
Learn more and sign up for the Emergency Home Learning Summit here : )

1. I am offering a Quarterly Membership to the Ninja Parenting Community (NPC.)

NPC is where parents are learning how to:
– Help their children adjust to virtual schooling
– Handle it when teachers are, shall we say, less than kind
– Deal with changes in the bedtime routine that results in a child's complete freak out
– Bring a parenting partner on board with positive discipline strategies
– Understand how their values and parenting style impacts their children's development
… And that is just in the last few weeks!

Click here to learn more and join NPC at the Quarterly Membership Rate – 3 months for the price of 2, every quarter that you're a member!

1. My monthly publication, the We Turned Out Okay Playbook, is getting some real accolades; licensed mental health counselor Janine Halloran calls it "A life raft for families who are adrift", and subscribers are saying it's "Worth every penny" and "Simple, and yet so powerful."
   Find out what all the fuss is about –
   Click the following link to learn more and subscribe to the Playbook:
   weturnedoutokay.com/playbook

2. Click here for episode 342, my conversation with coach Mariela Ortiz (where I first learned of the idea that we can come from just one of two places, fear or love.)

3. Click here for episode 339, my conversation with Shannon Connery, PhD, which I reference in today's episode.

4. Click here for episode 344, all about "the secret fears of a child development expert" (that's me.)

5. In this part of the episode I reference one of my all-time favorite books, Visual Intelligence by Amy Herman. She teaches first responders, FBI agents, and others how to overcome their own biases and truly see what is right in front of them. Herman's book is such a model for me, and today I hope to help you understand why what she teaches is so crucial to a society's success.

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If there was ever a time to call what we are all doing "crisis parenting," now is it.
In this episode, I bring you a critical tool to help you keep going!

I also share about why I called this show "We Turned Out Okay, The Modern Parent's Guide to Old-School Parenting."
A mom in the WTOO Facebook group asked that question, and this Basics Bootcamp episode seemed like the perfect time to talk about that!

Also today, I have three things to invite you into!
In chronological order:

1. October's We Turned Out Okay Playbook

The October 2020 issue of the We Turned Out Okay Playbook gives you tools for getting the behavior you WANT from your child – it goes to print at noon on Wednesday 10/23!

Licensed mental health counselor and best-selling author Janine Halloran calls my Playbook ""A life raft for families."

If a life raft seems like a good idea to you right now, click the link below!
weturnedoutokay.com/playbook

2. The rate for my online private coaching practice is going up!

I help parents and kids thrive every day in my online private coaching practice, the Ninja Parenting Community (NPC).

Members have exclusive access to the WTOO Book Club, twice-monthly Live Members-Only Calls, and some low key, yet powerful, challenges we are doing this autumn!

The rate for becoming a member will DOUBLE on Saturday 10/26, so if you've been on the fence about joining the Ninja Parenting Community, get in now before the rate goes up!
You'll get your entire first month in NPC for free, too!
weturnedoutokay.com/joinNPC

3. I'm a Speaker at the Online Toddler Play Summit!

My presentation is all about how to keep going while raising will kids, and it's out on Monday, September 28…
Get your free ticket to the entire event (there are 20 of us speakers : ) by clicking here

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/346 for video of this podcast episode…

Other Key Links:

Click here for Positive Discipline Ninja Tactics, my first book.
It comes up today because I share (without any detail whatsoever) of being sexually abused at age 7, a story that I tell in this book.

Click here for The Success Principles by Jack Canfield.
The tool I shared today comes directly from this book : )

This week's highlighted archive episode is located at weturnedoutokay.com/176, my conversation with Ingrid Alli and Hamilton Graziano. We discuss interracial marriage, parenting, and overcoming bias. It's a great past episode and I hope you enjoy it!

Also in the pre-intro I talk about one of my personal heroes, Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who we lost last week. I ask you to honor her life by being kind and compassionate. I also share about one of my favorite-ever books, Notorious RBG. Highly recommended reading!

Hugs! We will get through this together!
Cheers!
Karen

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Hi Friends! Today I'm talking about some successes we've seen both with a coaching client, and here at home : )

Aaaaand... the WTOO Book Club starts up September 16, this coming Wednesday (if you're seeing this in real time)!

I'm sharing the book we will be discussing, and how to join!
(Which is: Go to weturnedoutokay.com/joinNPC to get our Book Club meetings for free - as part of your first 30 days Free - in the Ninja Parenting Community, which is where the WTOO Book Club now lives : )

I am SUPER excited to spend some quality time together, talk about what's really on your mind right now as a parent, and learn along with you.

Cheers!
Karen

Karen Lock Kolp M.Ed.
Child Development Expert, Parent Coach

Host of the We Turned Out Okay Podcast, helping parents of young children change kids' behavior from bad to good; feel happy inside; and truly enjoy family time
weturnedoutokay.com/

Publisher of the monthly We Turned Out Okay Playbook, teaching simple, powerful tools to help parents feel in control of family life, and happy inside
weturnedoutokay.com/playbook/

Author of 3 parenting books including Positive Discipline Ninja Tactics, written to help parents "keep calm and handle every temper tantrum"
weturnedoutokay.com/books/

The quote I live by: "The opposite of play is not work. It is depression." – Brian Sutton-Smith

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I'm so excited to bring you today's guest, Phyllis Fagell, LCPC, mom, school counselor, and author of the wonderful book Middle School Matters.

Phyllis helps us (yes – I include myself in here : )
– Pick our battles
– Talk with teachers and caregivers
– Figure out what we CAN do

In short Phyllis helps us feel in control of our family's direction right now.
That's SO important, given this extremely shaky start to the school year and our worries about the pandemic, downright silly politics, and the need for racial and social justice.
Not to mention our own need to pour from a full cup and not an empty one.

Given all that, I know you are going to LOVE our conversation!
You can find Phyllis, and all the wonderful work she does, by going to PhyllisFagell.com <3

Links that come up in today's episode:

Because we've gone to and every-other-week schedule, in each episode I offer a back episode of We Turned Out Okay, something you can listen to in our off week!

Today, I bring you my first conversation with Raeshal Solomon, from episode 215. Raeshal single-handedly got herself out from under a mountain of debt, while living with a serious chronic illness. She's a money expert, but more than that she is an expert in keeping going! I know you are going to love this conversation.
(Raeshal was also a part of OkayCon 2020, my Free Virtual Summit from this past March, right at the beginning of the pandemic. Click weturnedoutokay.com/328 for Raeshal's wonderful contribution to OkayCon 2020.)

I'm excited to share, I will be part of the Reignite Toddler Play global virtual summit coming up at the end of this month! I don't have the link yet, but as soon as I do I will drop it in here. Holly Peretz, the creator of the Virtual Summit interviewed me this past week and I just know you're going to love this conference!

I'm spending September offering you HOPE…
– Click here to watch the first module of my premium "How to Keep Going" course, absolutely free, right there on the page.

– On that page you can also sign up to get the ENTIRE "How to Keep Going course, completely free! (You can also do that by clicking here.)

– "A life raft for families who are struggling to stay afloat." That's what Janine Halloran, LMHC, author of Coping Skills for Kids and Coping Skills for Teens recently said about my We Turned Out Okay Playbook. That is high praise indeed! Check out the Playbook for yourself by going to weturnedoutokay.com/playbook. You can subscribe for the October issue on that page, too!

– In this post, called "A case study about handling epic tantrums," I share the tools and strategies that a mom in our Ninja Parenting Community successfully employed to stop her four-year-old's extremely epic tantrums.
If she can do it, so can you! Click here to learn how you can work with me, for free, for a whole month.

• Bruce Feiler's wonderful book, Life is in the Transitions, comes up in our conversation today.

– Click here to say hi in Instagram!… In Twitter… On the WTOO Facebook page… Or in the WTOO Facebook Group!

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Welcome to this second installation of Basics Bootcamp!
I tell some truths today that we need to hear and recognize, if we are going to raise a happy family and feel good inside ourselves.

Just like the title says, I do dive into my biggest and deepest fears about the pressures put on you, as you raise your kids.

I say things today that scare the bejabbers out of me!
But I know they need to be said.
As a child development expert, I'm the one who has to say them.

I also share something positive: my biggest hope.
It's a buckwild episode for buckwild times… Let's dive in!

PS lots of links today!
Get your whole first month in the Ninja Parenting Community, my online private coaching practice, for FREE by going to:
weturnedoutokay.com/joinNPC

We've moved to an every-other-week format, and each episode I am highlighting a great episode from the past!
Today, I offer my conversation with Jonathan Fields, founder of The Good Life Project from December 2016. It's maybe even more relevant today than when we originally recorded.
weturnedoutokay.com/125

Today I share two pieces of recent parenting news that had me with my jaw on the floor:
"Parents accused of neglect over virtual truancy; Charges, as families struggle with remote classes"
"No pajamas allowed for online learning, Illinois district says"

In the very first episode of the show, I invited my four best friends from life on, and we all talk about our unplanned adventures:
weturnedoutokay.com/000

Here is the first in my Basics Bootcamp series, all about why boundaries are so important when raising kids:
weturnedoutokay.com/343

I share about how my kids have gone from reading Dave Barry essay collections to watching calculus lectures on YouTube… for fun… and getting way more out of books like 1984 and Brave New World than I ever did.

I also talk about how the movie Super Size Me helped establish some trust in digital offerings in one of my sons, who'd been feeling as if you just can't trust anything, from any source, that you had not experienced your actual self. (It turns out that, when I share in this episode that Morgan Spurlock gained "like 50 pounds," I was wrong – it was 24 pounds. But still, he gained 24 pounds in 30 days of eating only McDonald's food. That's a lot of pounds!)

I share about how Pat Flynn of SPI.com, and Rich Litvin of RichLitvin.com, have helped me on my journey to creating, producing, and keeping going with this show and everything at weturnedoutokay.com.

Cheers!
Karen

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Welcome! In this episode I share a recent case study from my online private coaching practice, the Ninja Parenting Community (NPC), where the mom of a four-year-old was dealing with extreme temper tantrums, and fearful that her son would never learn to obey the rules. Even the ones for safety.
She struggled to see how good boundaries could improve that situation – until they did.

Here's something I have learned during the coronavirus pandemic:
Basics matter.
Understanding how to do the most basic things, like getting a child to obey you, is even more important now than ever. And yet the basics are elusive during the pandemic.
Today we dive into using a super basic thing, good boundaries, to get your child to obey you.

Also I share about what's happening with the We Turned Out Okay Podcast… changes are coming, ones that will make the creation of the show sustainable for your host : )
It's interesting, because good boundaries also come into play in talking about the changes to the show.
Join us!

Key Links and Notes:

Click here for my conversation with coach Mariela Ortiz, which is where she brings up a great metaphor: how much more helpful it is for us to help our friend OUT of a hole, rather than jump into the hole along with them… Mariela relates that back to how crucial it is for us to take care of ourselves, get privacy and breaks when necessary, so that we can keep going.

Click here for the fantastic article about returning to school in the pandemic that educator and best-selling author Jessica Lahey wrote, along with her husband Tim Lahey, who was an infectious diseases doctor. They contribute their expertise to give us a great set of guidelines for whether we should be returning to physical school, or virtual school. It's awesome.

Click here for my video and checklist on "Successful potty training even under pressure"

Click here for my video and checklist on "How to handle every temper tantrum"

Check out my new publication, the We Turned Out Okay Playbook, and get your digital copy of the inaugural issue for free!

Click here to get my weekly Parenting Newsletters; I write multiple times per week, with tools, ideas, and (usually) at least one thing I learned how to do better, and how it pertains to helping your family thrive!

Today's back episode reference: weturnedoutokay.com/036

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Our choices right now seem extremely limited, don't they? We don't have a choice in how the coronavirus spreads, we don't have a lot of choices in how our children's childcare and schooling works right now. For many of us even our own ability to be private, to have alone time, doesn't feel like it's under our control.
Today's guest, Mariela Ortiz, helps us to a different mindset: she talks about "a daily practice of choice."
Some things are in our control; we can make meaningful choices.
Listen to today's conversation to figure out how to do that!

Notes and Links

Mariela invited me to be one of the experts in her Mommy Matters Summit, such an honor! And we have a GREAT conversation, which you can watch by signing up for the Summit at the link below. It started Monday, August 3 and will go through August 27, 2020, with a new guest expert each day!
Sign up to get 25 days' worth of guests – including me – in your inbox by going to:
mommymatterssummit.com

Get your FREE August 2020 inaugural issue of the We Turned Out Okay Playbook
I'm excited to share the start of something fun and helpful, the We Turned Out Okay Playbook! It's a monthly publication I'm creating to help you feel like you have some power, and some good choices to make, even in the midst of all the insanity.
You can download the August 2020 PDF completely free! Go to:
weturnedoutokay.com/playbook

Weekly "How is Karen overcoming burnout and exhaustion" Newsletter Series Continues
For the last seven weeks I have shared a newsletter each week about how I'm overcoming burnout and exhaustion, in this time where being a parent is so tough.
Last week I wrote about the part that music plays in my self-care (click here to read about that.)
Get the next newsletters in this series by going to:
weturnedoutokay.com/weekly

Visit weturnedoutokay.com/342 for the video of my conversation today, and for these show notes.

Hugs from me to you! We will get through this time together!

Click here for a favorite book, Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day.

Click here for another favorite book, Skulduggery Pleasant.

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SENSITIVE EARS ALERT… Part way through this episode I share about a traumatic event that happened to me in my childhood. I ask that you put on headphones, or listen away from sensitive ears. Thank you!

Today I share three keys to success, when parenting in a pandemic or any crisis.
They are not difficult keys. Because if they were, we wouldn't be able to do them as consistently as they need doing…
Instead, the first key is relaxing, the second key is enjoyable, and the the third key takes something negative and frames it to be positive.

Also: the day before I recorded this episode I had a total brainwave.
I connected up my superpower – helping people feel seen and cared for – to the reason I have this gift, and have had ever since I can remember.

It's not a pretty reason.

When I was seven years old I was sexually abused, in my own home, with my mom right upstairs. (She was completely unaware, and I would be a senior in college before she discovered the extent of the trauma. In my first book, Positive Discipline Ninja Tactics, I share about what my folks did that was helpful, even though they had no idea what had happened to me.)
After the incident, my whole personality changed. I felt lost, anxious every time we drove out of my ken in the car, and convinced that if I lost sight of my family, they had deserted me.

The day before recording this episode I had the following brainwave:
My superpower comes from the fact that no one gave me the care that I needed, no one came to my rescue on that day. No one had found me when I was lost.

So, I had to learn to do that for myself.
I had to take care of little Karen, because no one else was there to do that.
And it's left me with a unique ability, that I've been practicing ever since: to make people feel seen, and cared for.

It's become the defining value of my life.

So if you're feeling lost, or as if no one cares about you, let me be that person for you.
As a child development expert, I've never yet met a parent who didn't have some concerns for their children.
If you're feeling like everything is impossible right now – lockdown, mask etiquette, school-at-at home, chaos in one corner and fire in another – I can help.

I've got two ways:

First, I am creating a publication called the We Turned Out Okay Playbook.
It is going to be so helpful for you, as you navigate the craziness and help your family through it all.
I wrote it to help you LIVE in challenging times, so you and your family can come through them and thrive.
Check it out – and download the August 2020 PDF completely free – by going to:
weturnedoutokay.com/playbook

Second, I'm opening up some time in my schedule to talk. For conversations.
Conversation that helps you feel seen, and heard, and cared for.
Conversation that helps you handle parenting, in the age of coronavirus.

If you want to think possibilities instead of fears…
If you want the help of someone who knows her child-development stuff, who helps her clients get real success…
If you want to have a conversation that's so helpful that you will literally remember it for the rest of your life… Email me!

(I share my email address towards the end of this episode. I won't write it down for bot-fraud-prevention purposes, but suffice it to say that my email address is my name, combined with the name of this website. Or, you could just listen to this episode, where you'll hear me say it out loud : )

I've worked with people who came into a coaching session with me, believing that something was impossible. They came out of it looking forward to some new possibilities and within a very short amount of time (the story that I share in this episode, it was the same day) wrote to me and said "I thought this was impossible, and we are DOING it!"

What is possible for you?
Let's find out.

Key Links The inaugural issue of the We Turned Out Okay Playbook is officially out!
Click the link below to view and download your free PDF copy of Issue 1/August 2020:
weturnedoutokay.com/playbook

The wonderful coach, Mariela Ortiz, was kind enough to include me in her virtual summit, Mommy Matters!
Click the link below to join the Free virtual Summit that Mariela is offering, which starts on August 3:
https://bit.ly/2Ztu7pJ

On August 4 (next week if you're listening in real time) Mariela is my guest on We Turned Out Okay!
On that day or after you can click the following link to listen to our conversation:
weturnedoutokay.com/342

I am loving the Parenting in Place Masterclass, and talk about this in here today because the second key to success for parenting in the pandemic is a game that I first heard of in this masterclass. Click the link below to find out more about it:
parentinginplacemasterclass.com

Click the link below for this post in your browser:
weturnedoutokay.com/341

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Navigating social situations has only gotten worse in the pandemic – but it sure wasn't always easy, even before!
Today's guests, Evie Granville and Sarah Davis of the Modern Manners for Moms and Dads Podcast, have spent years helping parents navigate social minefields. With a book coming out in the fall and an awesome quiz that you can take right now (I did!), These two friends, educators, and parents have lots to contribute in helping us get along and raise our kids in these crazy times.
Listen to this episode to learn:
– how to navigate the toughest situations you might encounter
– how to understand your own approach to parenting
– how to shift that approach, if it's not working as well as it could for you and your family

A few announcements
1. I share in this week's preshow segment how frustrating I'm feeling, as a child-development expert, hearing from so many parents whose children are not doing well in the current educational climate.

I've got 3 ways to help if this is you!
Join my FREE Pandemic Back-to-School Challenge – enroll at the link below by Wednesday, July 22, 2020:
weturnedoutokay.com/pandemicchallenge

Try the Ninja Parenting Community (NPC), our online virtual coaching practice, where parents are getting much needed help navigating the start to this crazy school year.
Right now you can try the Community for just $1 for your whole first month! Click the following link for details and to join NPC:
weturnedoutokay.com/joinNPC

A new publication I'm creating, the WTOO Playbook! The August 2020 issue is jampacked with help and hope as you navigate the beginning of this crazy school year.
Join my newsletter group to find out more about the WTOO Playbook:
weturnedoutokay.com/weekly

1. We're in the middle of a 10-week (free) newsletter series on how I'm overcoming my own burnout and overwhelm.
   The most recent newsletter was all about how much better I felt coming from a place of kindness, rather than judgment.
   Click here to read that newsletter and to sign up for future ones!

2. I've been invited to be part of the Mommy Matters Virtual Summit, the brainchild of next week's WTOO guest, parent Coach, mindfulness expert, and yoga instructor Mariela Ortiz!
   The Summit starts in early August, and you can sign up for it by going to:
   Mommymatterssummit.com

Links Evie, Sarah, and I discuss are in the show notes, located at weturnedoutokay.com/340

Enjoy the show!

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If the return to preschool/childcare/school is on your mind – and I know it is, because I've spoken with lots of you over the last few weeks – this FREE Pandemic Back-to-School Challenge will help you:

– Take on your biggest concerns about the upcoming year
– Manage your children's behavior, and your own emotions, so you're ready for the upcoming changes
– Learn the 3 Keys to Success for starting this year off right, even amidst all the uncertainty

You can do this, and I'm excited to help!
The challenge runs for four days from Thursday, July 23-Sunday, July 26.
Each day I'm sharing a video with participants as well as inviting questions and success stories…
Also participants get to be present for the Live Challenge Wrap up on Sunday!
And I'm doing something I've never done before in a challenge, handing out MVP awards!

I know we can start this year off on a positive note, regardless of whatever else is happening.

Prove to yourself that you can do it – join our challenge!

Click the following link:
weturnedoutokay.com/pandemicchallenge

Challenge starts Thursday, July 23.
See you then!

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I am excited to bring Shannon Connery, PhD, onto the show today, because she's got lots of great ideas to help you keep going! (Click here for Shannon's website, where you'll find her podcast, her blog, and a wonderful free guide that she offers to help people overcome the challenges that we all have in our lives : )
Shannon is a therapist living in Colorado, and in our conversation today you'll hear her story of losing nearly everything – and coming back stronger from that experience.
Shannon is also a podcaster, and her Fix Yourself is one of my favorites – she helps us all know what to do when we encounter difficult events and struggles in our lives. Shannon shares so much about herself, and her feelings, and what she's tried that works to keep going and to help her family members and patients thrive.

Today we talk about:
– The role of empathy and positivity in helping you keep going
– Steps we are taking (and that you can also take) to dismantle racism
– What Shannon is doing to help those that she works with through the pandemic

Join us!

Video of our conversations – as well as lots of key links from this conversation – are available at weturnedoutokay.com/339

A couple notes from the preshow segment:
– Registration is now open for the private coaching practice for parents that I run (the Ninja Parenting Community), so you can join now if you need the extra help from a child development expert, and the support of a wonderful online community!
weturnedoutokay.com/joinNPC

– All throughout July I'm offering free live trainings, and even a free challenge! Get notified of these at the following link:
weturnedoutokay.com/weekly

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Today we're answering your GREAT questions!
– "[My young daughter] is going through a phase of not wanting clothes on. Do I just not battle it? What's appropriate at 4? How do I instill the importance of being careful without taking away her sweet innocence? Or am I totally overthinking this?"

– "This week's hot topic is sharing and temper around that. The minute [my three-year-old's] little brother walks in the room (even if he hasn't messed with her stuff yet) she goes right to screaming at him and throwing stuff… I'm struggling with getting her to react in a bit calmer way.
"Understandably, she is having a lot of trouble letting other kids play with any of her toys. I get it, we haven't had to share in a long time. I'm just wondering if there are some good strategies or advice for starting back at square one was sharing, and also talking nicely to others even when angry."

– "My four-year-old was playing with her toys saying "this one is dead, it's in the dead place" (inside the toy garage) then when I needed a shower "Mummy you need to go to the shower and be dead"… How can I talk about death at an appropriate level for children?"

– "They don't stop fighting with each other – they push each other's buttons just for "the fun of it."

(I said they were great questions : )

If You're Struggling to Keep Going
During this summer I'm using my newsletter to share about my own journey, trying to find peace and stop feeling so guilty while working, running our household, and keeping going sustainably.
Last week I shared about my first step (stopping "obsessively checking" on the Internet, and (as I share in this episode) it's going well!
But I know I've got a long way to go… If you want to come along on this journey with me, I'm sharing about it in my newsletters. Click the link below to get them automagically delivered to your inbox!
Weturnedoutokay.com weekly

Tons of links today!
You'll find them - as well as a cheat sheet of answers to these questions - at weturnedoutokay.com/338

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As a child development expert, I want to help you keep going in our new reality!
This conversation, recorded during March 2020 (in other words at the very beginning of the pandemic here in the US), I know will be super helpful for that.

I am excited to bring you my conversation with the author of one of my favorite parenting books (it's called Happy Campers) – Audrey Monke of sunshine-parenting.com is today's OkayCon 2020 guest!

Audrey shares:
- How to stay positive, even while everyone is cooped up together
– Some great family-focused activities you can do to make your stuck at home time more enjoyable
– What lessons Audrey, her family, and counselors and campers (who attend the summer camp Audrey owns and runs) are learning from this time

Learn how to keep going:
In my (free) Weekly Parenting Newsletters I am taking you on my journey of recovering from burnout, exhaustion, and huge feelings of guilt.
I am working to feel at peace with myself – to keep going, raising my kids, keeping our household running, and feeling happy inside – and if you want some tools to help you accomplish those miracles, click this link! Weturnedoutokay.com/weekly

NPC Summer Camp registration ENDS Wednesday 7/1
One way parents have been feeling way better, recovering from exhaustion, handling their kids' fears, clinginess, and potty training issues: the Ninja Parenting Community.
Get access to everything in the community and enjoy a summer camp program created just for you, if you are looking for connection and positivity in our new reality!
I am closing registration to NPC on Wednesday, July 1 at 9 PM EST – enroll today, and take that first step toward being able to feel at peace with yourself and (sustainably) keep going!
Here is the link, jump in while there is still time:
weturnedoutokay.com/joinNPC

(go to weturnedoutokay.com/337 for notes to this episode)
We will get through this together!
Cheers -
Karen

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"Would you have any recommendations for books or anything that might help with learning the best ways to integrate an older adopted child into a family, or good books on adoption and advice?"
"How to divide my attention between my 1 YO and my 4 YO… I try to give exclusive mummy daughter time but it's never enough."

These are the first two questions in our Q&A series… I hope they are helpful!

A Summer Camp program for you
Towards the end of the episode I mention NPC Summer Camp, a new program I'm offering to help parents of young children not just get through, but live IN, summer 2020. Opening Ceremonies are this coming Friday!

Spend your whole first month in my online coaching practice for parents (NPC) for FREE – exclusively for podcast listeners and folks in my email group – by clicking here (offer ends Wednesday, June 24, so enroll today!)

Then you'll be all set for summer camp! We'll have lots of fun, keeping each other company and taking control of our family's direction in this, a summer like no other.

Camp activities are aimed at helping you enjoy family time even in this year's difficult circumstances.
Join now, spend your whole first month in NPC for free. I can't wait to see you in our community forums!

For the adoption and sibling jealousy links that come up today, click the following link:
weturnedoutokay.com/336

And hang in there. We will get through this together!

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I am super excited to bring you this conversation with Jennifer Louden, whose extremely helpful books (including the one we dive into today, Why Bother?), have sold nearly a million copies! Jennifer has been featured in hundreds of podcasts, magazines, and TV and radio shows – even appearing on Oprah.

In today's conversation you will learn:
– How to really give a hoot about your life again
– Why it's crucial to LIVE in tough times, instead of just trying to live through them
– Appropriate discipline for when your child gets into mischief (specifically writing on walls with magic marker, but what we discuss applies to whenever a kid gets into trouble)

Go to jenniferlouden.com for answers to this question, posed there: "How do you bother after heartbreak, after creative and career defeats, after loss, after sidelining your dreams to pay off the debt, raise kids, or take care of aging parents?"
But first, listen to our conversation!

Need something positive in your life this summer? I'm excited to share a new program I'm offering: we are having summer camp in the Ninja Parenting Community!
In addition to the courses, challenges, and other great stuff to keep you sane while raising your little kids, NPC Summer Camp includes:
– Weekly camp activities that help you be a better parent, like making a vision board, or a "house rules" sign, or a treasure hunt to take kiddos on, or a "no occasion needed" fun family surprise
– Supportive and fun Members-Only Campfire Nights
– The sense of belonging to a community of people who get it, and who are along on this parenting journey with you

NPC Summer Camp dates: Friday, June 26-Friday, August 7, 2020.
Enroll now to enjoy family life this summer!

Exclusively for podcast listeners and folks signed up for my weekly newsletters, click here to get your whole first month for free!

(Offer ends Wednesday, June 24, and NPC Summer Camp begins Friday, June 26, so jump in now!)
Can't wait to see you at summer camp!

Click here to see this post in your browser : )

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"It's as if we are going through the 1918 flu pandemic AND the Great Depression AND the Civil Rights era, all at once." That's what James Arthur said on his podcast, Minority Korner, in (and about) Spring 2020.
I think he's right.
To get through it all we are going to have to work together!
That's the spirit in which I bring you this episode. In this conversation on racial justice between my friend Shane Sams, and his friend Talaat McNeely, Talaat shares that we each must "Make change within our sphere of influence."
Well, my sphere of influence is in teaching parents like you how to get your family going in the direction you want.
Today I link that idea up with getting this nation going in the direction we want: one in which everyone is treated fairly, and where parents don't have to worry about their children being harassed, assaulted, or murdered because of how they look.
I hope this episode, all about raising anti-racist kids, will help you make these crucial changes within your sphere of influence.

FYI: Free live training course on raising good, kind kids –
This week I'm doing not one but two live trainings, teaching on how a parent can change a child's bad behavior to good… and one common mistake that well-meaning parents often make when trying to raise good, kind kids. (In other words, something that ups the bad behavior, when they're trying to reduce it. It's not a mistake you want to make.)
Click weturnedoutokay.com/kind to sign up for the live trainings, this coming Thursday, June 11 and Sunday, June 14!

Because of my white privilege, I have been able to insulate myself.
I've been able to not see some important truths that have been right in front of me.
I have remained ignorant, when I should have been seeking education.

This week one of my friends, a white man from Kentucky, had an amazing conversation with one of his friends, a Black man from Chicago. Talaat McNeely and Shane Sams spoke for an hour and 45 minutes, and I was astounded and ashamed at the stories Talaat told.
Things that have personally happened to him and his kids, just because of the color of their skin.

I was:
– astounded by the differences in our experiences, Talaat's and mine, which only came about because he happens to be Black, and I happen to be white. No one should ever, EVER be treated the way Talaat and his family have been treated.

– ashamed because I let it happen.
The simple fact that it is happening means that I have not done enough to stop it.

Talaat shares five key steps that we can take to stop racism.
(I don't remember to bring up the first and most important one until we're almost at the very end of today's episode, so all along you'll hear me talk about four key steps… But that first one is most important. Talaat brings it up right at the beginning of his conversation with Shane. It's something you hear me talk about on the show again and again, and I still can't believe it took me until the last part of this episode to talk about it in connection with stopping racism.)

There are about a million links today, so for those and a description of the five key steps we can take to stop racism – to raise anti-racist kids – click the following link: weturnedoutokay.com/334.

We need each other now, more than ever.
If you are reading this and you're a person who (as the Black Panthers used to say) is Black or oppressed, you have my empathy, and my pledge to become educated instead of remaining ignorant about what has happened to you, and the part I have played in your troubles.
If you're a person of privilege, I hope that like me, you're open to moving forward on the path from ignorance, to education. And from there to support.
We will get through this together <3

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(FYI: about 10 or so minutes in, I use the word "jackass" once or twice... it's not enough for an E-rating, but I want you to be aware just in case you want to listen away from sensitive ears.)

Hi Friends,

I had planned for, and drafted, a very different kind of post today for you (I got about a dozen spider bites while sleeping Saturday night, and we've got a very large ant invasion going on in our kitchen; my abandoned draft was largely about these.)

But as I wrote I realized how truly small and insignificant these concerns of mine are.

There is a lot going on in the world, and a lot going on in the news.

And I wanted to start the week off with a simpler message.

I wasn't sure what that message would be, except somehow I wanted to transcend the fear, the worry, and the struggles that we are seeing in the news, and even in our own homes.

My family and I just finished virtually attending the closing ceremonies for the year at my son's school, and the Executive Director George Popham teared up saying the following:

"If there's one important thing we should be doing, it is to put good, kind people in the world."

Immediately I knew that that was the message I wanted to share.

This morning when I woke up, and even as I began to write this email, I was feeling helpless and small and afraid. (And itchy from spider bites, if I'm being honest.)

Hearing George's words made me feel much, much better.

We have a really important mission, us parents:
It's to put good, kind people in the world.

If we do nothing else – absolutely nothing! – besides this, I believe it will be enough.

And if I can be helpful to you, as you are working on this mission, that would fulfill something deep in me.

I have lots of ideas and experience working with young children, and spent nearly a decade working in an outstanding, cutting-edge preschool program.
I earned my bachelor's degree in Human Development and Family Relations, and later my master's degree in Early Childhood Education.

I've spent the last six years helping parents rein in their children's bad behavior and truly enjoy family life.

I know a lot about what makes kids tick, and how we can alleviate their bad behavior, and thus connect with them and feel happy within ourselves as we raise them.

If we're going to raise kind people, we can do that best by making our environment is positive and kind as possible.
If you're struggling with that, I hope I can be helpful for you!

I just built a page on my website, weturnedoutokay.com/bias, where I gathered many of the resources that have been helping me learn to combat racism – a huge part of raising good and kind kids.

I've also got lots of other free resources, including 332 back podcast episodes, and an entire Virtual Summit that I put on in response to the pandemic this past April. You can spend more in depth time with me each Wednesday evening by joining the WTOO Book Club, which is free to join, and can be free to read the book if the purchase cost is a barrier for you. And I am running a special right now, until this coming Wednesday, June 3, on entry into the virtual coaching practice where I personally help parents with their biggest challenges, trying to make this as affordable for you as possible.

Lastly, if you've got any parenting questions at all I hope you'll go to weturnedoutokay.com/contact and ask.
We will get through this, together.

Cheers,
Karen

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"I feel like I'm completely alone trying to meet completely insatiable needs for days on end."
That is what one of the moms in my online coaching practice, the Ninja Parenting Community, wrote early last week.

She's not the only one. Not by a longshot!
In this week's episode I share my best ideas for getting through a crisis.
Even a slow-motion, simultaneously-terrifying-and-tedious, pandemic-induced crisis like the one we're in now in June 2020.

If your energy, patience, and/or well-being is flagging, first of all let me offer HUGE hugs!
Listen to this episode for some practical things you can do to get through the toughest of these tough times.

Join us!

Links that come up today:

Parenting Masterclass
For the all-summer-long live Masterclass series, "Parenting in Place," which features lots of WTOO beloved guests and friends, like Audrey Monke, Jessica Lahey, and Devorah Heitner, click here! (I'm signed up for it, and I hope you'll sign up too!)

Ninja Parent Playbook!
Want to be a part of the (extremely limited) first-ever issue of the Ninja Parent Playbook?
This is the brainwave I mentioned briefly in last week's episode – a newsletter to help you keep going, anchored by a calendar that gives you some small step to take every day.
But it's so much more than that. It's part workbook, part inspirational thinking, part marching orders to keep you on track. It's packed with informative and thoughtful ideas to help you not just "live through" this (or any) crisis – but really, truly LIVE.
If you want to bring your family safely through hard times, while feeling not just as if you're scraping by but as if you are happy within yourself and in your family, you need this newsletter!
It's a monthly publication that comes in your mailbox! (If you're outside the US at this point it needs to be a PDF into your email, although I'm hoping that will change in the future : )
Click the link below to sign up:
weturnedoutokay.com/playbook

WTOO Book Club
Click the following link for the WTOO Book Club (we are reading Positive Discipline Ninja Tactics, my first book and one that really gets to the heart of how to have a happy family life)
weturnedoutokay.com/bookclub

Grand Reopening sale ends Wednesday, June 3
Earlier I mentioned the Ninja Parenting Community, my online private coaching practice; Wednesday, June 3, 2020 is your LAST day to get a special quarterly rate – 3 months for the price of 2!
Click this link for details:
weturnedoutokay.com/joinNPC

Click weturnedoutokay.com/066 for my conversation about consent, with Amy Anderson.

Click weturnedoutokay.com/332 for last week's conversation with special needs preschool teacher, and close friend and colleague of mine, Tricia Tomaso (the episode comes up today because I shared last week about the brainwave that has become the Ninja Parent Playbook : )

Click weturnedoutokay.com/333 to view this post in your browser.

And again huge hugs! We will get through this together <3

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FYI: NPC Grand Reopening sale : )
I have been working hard behind the scenes, creating a 5-module course on “How to keep going” and a training on “how to handle your child’s angry outbursts,” not to mention spring cleaning in the Ninja Parenting Community… the response from NPC members has been wonderful!
I'm excited to reopen NPC registration so you can get the help you need coming through the pandemic <3
Go to weturnedoutokay.com/joinNPC – and save 33% when you sign up by Monday June 1!

I am so excited to bring you this installment of OkayCon 2020 with beloved WTOO guest, special needs preschool teacher Tricia Tomaso!

Tricia helps us:
– Work out a routine to make our days a little easier right now
– Help our kids through what they’re struggling with
– Keep going, even when we feel like we kinda can’t

I hope you find our conversation as helpful as I did!

Click this link for this in your browser: weturnedoutokay.com/332

Also: Join the We Turned Out Okay book club!

I wrote a newsletter recently on how to handle it if you’re feeling anxiety in the pandemic (and after). Click the link below to read it:
https://weturnedoutokay.com/it-is-normal-to-be-anxious-when-everything-is-changing/

To watch the Free Virtual Summit I created in response to the 2020 coronavirus pandemic – this conversation today was recorded for OkayCon 2020, when Tricia (along with 8 other presenters volunteered their expertise and time to help us through) – go to:
weturnedoutokay.com/OkayCon2020

We will get through this together <3

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"My biggest struggle is with my five-year-old. When she is angry she scratches, bites and sometimes hits. She also yells very loudly. I would love some advice on how to get her to stop."

A listener wrote in with this question, and I knew it would probably resonate with many listeners.

Like us adults, kids are experiencing lots and lots of angry feelings – more so than pre-pandemic, without the usual outlets or often even the ability to leave the house and get a change of scene.

It can be difficult for adults to deal with our own rage, after years and decades of experience… It's so much harder for kids to deal with their rage.

They need our help! Today I share a 3-part formula that I hope you find helpful in handling your child's angry outbursts.

We've also got an impromptu Parenting News, featuring the following:
The Forge article "Your Only Goal Is to Arrive," about how only one thing really matters right now in bringing our families through the pandemic.

A new book – Why are You Still Sending Your Kids to School? – from friend-of-the-podcast and expert in raising self-directed learners Blake Boles. I share the Amazon link here, but Blake asks that you consider purchasing it through "local bookstores, which could certainly use the business right now."
(I share about this book both in the Parenting News, and also in the main part of this episode. I think it's required reading, not just in handling your young child's rage, but also in raising resilient and happy kids. Highly recommended!)

Join us!

Notes, including tons of links and a cheat sheet of the 3-part formula to handle your child's angry outbursts, are at weturnedoutokay.com/331 : )

Also: I have been working hard behind the scenes, creating a 5-module course on "How to keep going" and a training on "how to handle your child's angry outbursts," not to mention spring cleaning in the Ninja Parenting Community… and in this episode I share when registration opens once more for NPC!
The response from NPC members has been wonderful, and I'm excited to open up the community for those of you who want the extra support coming through the pandemic.
Listen in to this episode to find out when registration opens, if you need that supportive community, and help from an expert in child development.

Join the We Turned Out Okay book club!

I wrote a newsletter recently on how to handle it if you're feeling anxiety in the pandemic (and after). Click the link below to read it:
https://weturnedoutokay.com/it-is-normal-to-be-anxious-when-everything-is-changing/

To watch the Free Virtual Summit I created in response to the 2020 coronavirus pandemic go to:
weturnedoutokay.com/OkayCon2020

We will get through this together <3

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FYI if you want some company, some learning, and some stories, join the WTOO Book Club! During our first meeting I am sharing about a truly low point in my own parenting, and asking the question "how do we come back from crummy parenting moments? Join us Wednesday, May 13 at 9 PM EST – click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly to get the link to the meeting! Hope to see you there : )

I am so excited to bring you this conversation today, which will be so helpful as these weeks of confinement and social distancing spool out…
Today I get to share my conversation with Terry Louison. Terry is an educator, a self-directed learner, and the program director for Baystate Learning Center (morethanjustaschool.com) – the school my son goes to!

During our conversation you will learn:
– What’s most important for kids to be learning right now, during the pandemic
– Why that learning doesn’t have to be stressful, for you or your child
– Concrete ideas taken from Terry’s own curriculum and plans for virtual teaching

Join us!

Terry's presentation is one of many from OkayCon 2020, the Free Virtual Summit I recently wrapped up! Go to weturnedoutokay.com/OkayCon2020 for all the presentations!

Also: go to weturnedoutokay.com/330 to watch Terry's video presentation.

Hope you are staying well and safe during the pandemic.
We will get through it together <3

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WTOO Book Club – Starting Wednesday, May 13 at 8 PM EST we are doing a chapter-by-chapter weekly read of Positive Discipline Ninja Tactics. We will learn to get good behavior from kiddos, share some stories, and spend some time each week together. If that sounds good to you, Click here to join the WTOO Book Club!

Working closely with parents of young children during this pandemic, I’ve seen so many examples of bad behavior:

– Kids smearing peanut butter on walls, dumping vinegar in beds, destroying furniture
– Kids pulling pets’ tales, chasing them with scooters, threatening the pets, and their own safety (when the animals retaliate)
– Kids getting overly clingy, going back and forth in terms of emotions between overexcited and happy, to abjectly despairing and melting down
– Kids reverting from potty training, showing immature behaviors that hadn’t been seen for weeks or months or years
– Kids unable to control their rage and angry feelings

And it’s not only kids reacting to the situation with heightened emotions. We are doing it too!

The questions I hear from the people I work most closely with: “I feel so lost. How do I live through this? What do I DO?”

This presentation comes directly from the solutions these parents have found. I am excited to bring them to you!

Today I share 7 things you can do to feel better – these are the ways I'm seeing parents use successfully to LIVE in this right now, as opposed to just living through this.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/329 to read the cheat sheet of these steps.

We will get through this together!

In previous episodes I've mentioned how appreciative I am of my town's weekday Emergency Meetings which they post in YouTube. This past week I was invited on the show! (Click here to view!)
I talk about how to get kids to wear masks, what to do when you are absolutely at your wit's end, and more. I'm posting it in here because I hope it will be helpful for you, even if you do not live in my town <3

Free Help for Parents in the Pandemic – in April 2020 I created the OkayCon Free Virtual Summit, 10 conversations with experts in fields of crucial importance to you right now (kids' behavior, finances, finding a job, home security, and lots more). These conversations are all available for free, for ever, at this link. I hope the Virtual Summit is helpful for you!

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The pressures of home and family life during lockdown play a big part in today's conversation.
Like you, my guest Anne and her family are sheltering in place.
Like you, Anne has her good days and bad days – as does her 5-year-old son.
But several weeks ago something happened in their family life that caused Anne's son to erupt into angry outbursts: the accidental death of Dilly, the baby bird the family had taken in.

Today, you get to listen in on a coaching exercise to help Anne bring her son back from the brink.
(It's the process that I use frequently in my online coaching practice, the Ninja Parenting Community, to help members figure out what is really going on, and how to start addressing it, to make everyday family life better.)
As you'll hear, getting good behavior from her five-year-old means:
– Recognizing that her instincts are sound, and that she is doing a great job!
– Working with the other adults in the house as a team
– Remaining calm and positive, even in these very difficult circumstances

If you need some inspiration and ideas for getting through tough times, during lockdown and beyond, this is the conversation for you!

Join us! And huge thanks to you Anne!

Click weturnedoutokay.com/329 for notes and links!

WTOO Book Club – Starting Wednesday, May 13 at 8 PM EST we are doing a chapter-by-chapter weekly read of Positive Discipline Ninja Tactics. We will learn to get good behavior from kiddos, share some stories, and spend some time each week together. If that sounds good to you, Click here to join the WTOO Book Club!

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FYI: I am starting a WTOO book club, a chapter-by-chapter read of my parenting books! If you want to learn to get good behavior from your kiddos, and share some stories, and spend some time each week with me, you can do that starting in May : )
Click here to buy Positive Discipline Ninja Tactics, the book we'll start with, so you can get reading!

I am so excited to bring you this conversation, with returning champion, mom, and money expert Raeshal Solomon of mylittlebanker.com!
Raeshal knows so much about money and getting out of debt – firsthand; in our first WTOO conversation, in episode 215, she shares how she successfully got herself out of debt.

In our conversation (recorded for OkayCon 2020, the Free Virtual Summit taking place during April 2020; go to OkayCon.com to check out all the presentations!) Raeshal shares:
– 6 steps you can take to get your finances under control, during and after the pandemic
– How (and why) to "take the emotion out of money"
– What you actually should do with your stimulus check

This is a wonderful and extremely helpful conversation.
Join us!
(Go to weturnedoutokay.com/328 for links and Raeshal's 6 steps outlined : )

I believe that challenging times call for dramatic measures. So I'm upping the WTOO game!

Free Parenting Advice – Click the following link to sign up for my Free Newsletter, where each week you'll get tons of advice and ideas for parenting through the Covid-19 crisis:
weturnedoutokay.com/weekly

Parenting Support Every Step of the Way – We're facing one of the most challenging times of our lives. Like me you are probably feeling all kinds of fear, anxiety, and worry right now.

Besides which, you are also likely sheltering in place with kids – whose behavior is leaving a lot to be desired at the moment!

That's why I've got special help for you during (and beyond) the Pandemic.

For a limited time, I am offering NPC membership at a special rate: $1 for your first month, and then the Friends & Family Monthly Rate, 25% off standard membership : )

So you can get the help and support you need during this crisis, click the link below:
weturnedoutokay.com/joinNPC

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OkayCon FREE Virtual Summit happening now If you're not sure how much more of this whole stuck-at-home stuff you can take, go to okaycon.com for a new, relevant interview each Monday and Wednesday, and a watch party each Monday and Wednesday evening throughout April! We will get through this together <3

I recorded this before our current "double pandemic" (of Covid-19, and Fear). But it seems especially relevant now:

Can you, or should you, train your child to play independently?
Do you negatively impact a child by playing with them often?
Do you feel guilty, whether you say "yes, I'll play," or "no, not right now"?

One member of our Ninja Parenting Community brought up these, and many other questions regarding independent play (her questions reference an only child... but this applies to all parents.)

Join us today to listen as I share the answers to these questions!
(Click weturnedoutokay.com/327 to view the video and see the notes.)

Key Links: What we're doing here at WTOO to help you through the pandemic:

All during April's OkayCon 2020 Virtual Summit we're having live watch parties, so we can keep each other company in this era where we all need that!
Sign up to be notified about the guests and watch parties:
https://weturnedoutokay.com/weekly

Find out details about the summit itself:
http://okaycon.com

Like me, you are probably feeling all kinds of fear, anxiety, and worry right now.
Besides which, you are also likely sheltering in place with kids – whose behavior is leaving a lot to be desired at the moment!

That’s why I am offering a special membership rate, just $1 for your whole first month! It's the Friends & Family rate, available for a limited time at the following link:
https://weturnedoutokay.com/joinNPC

Our first Pandemic Parenting News:

Click here for the NYT parenting article in which a bouncer, a referee, and a therapist all help you stop your kids from fighting.

Click here for the hilarious and wonderful essay "We, The Hard-Working, Newly Homeschooling Parents of America, have Rewritten the Common Core Standards."

Click here for the Boston Globe article "Seven activities keeping my family sane during isolation."

Click here for @childlifesaver's wonderful post, "How to help kids wear masks," in Instagram.

Wishing you well throughout this unprecedented time! We will get through it together <3

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Today's conversation is part of the OkayCon Virtual Summit! - Not sure how much more of this whole stuck-at-home stuff you can take? Go to okaycon.com for a new, relevant interview each Monday and Wednesday, and a watch party each of those weeknights! We will get through this together <3

Dr. Heather Maguire's day job is that of professor, teaching graduate students how to shape children's behavior.
My day job is that of parent coach, teaching moms and dads how to, well, shape their children's behavior.

Today we interview each other – so you get the best ideas on how to shape your child's behavior to what you want (and need) it to be, as well as the best ideas on how to homeschool and keep it together during this whole crisis.
Even, how to make this into a positive experience, something you and your kiddos can look back on as an adventure that you were on together.

Join us!

Special Parenting Help for You during the Pandemic Get the help and support you need during this crisis!

I'm bringing Ninja Parenting Community members:
– Support through these tough weeks and months
– My child-development expertise, so you can cut the chaos in your home
– Steps to take that you can feel confident in, right from the start!

I am offering NPC membership at a never-before-seen rate:
$1 for your whole first month
… and then a 50% discount off the standard monthly rate : )

Join the Ninja Parenting Community today:
https://weturnedoutokay.com/joinNPC

Go to okaycon.com to watch Heather, and to watch for upcoming presenters at OkayCon 2020!

Click weturnedoutokay.com/326 for notes and links we discuss today : )

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How, you might be wondering, are we actually really going to get through this time?

You're not alone in wondering that. I have been wondering about it too.

I've also been feeling terribly guilty, any time that I forget we are in the midst of a worldwide pandemic and find myself enjoying something, or laughing at a joke, or feeling contented.

So today I want to bring you an episode that defines our most important asset, the single most important thing we need to get through this (or any) time of trouble.

I hope you find it helpful! (Click here for this post in your browser.)

Here are all the links I share about today: 1. Click here for the poem that brought me to tears, and also gave me permission to not feel guilty, but to embrace good feelings.

1. Click here for episode 188, my conversation with Mark McGuinness of the 21st century creative podcast.

2. Click here for the McElroy Family YouTube channel, where you'll find the wonderful series Stories From Your Gaffer, read each evening at 5:30 PM Eastern by Clint McElroy, one of my favorite podcasters ever.

3. Click here for The Adventure Zone, where I first heard Clint McElroy – but please, not with kiddos around!

4. Click here for my conversation with Audrey Monke, broadcast last Friday (in real-time) at Audrey's Sunshine Parenting Facebook page.

5. Click here for episode 273, my second We Turned Out Okay conversation with Audrey, about her wonderful book, Happy Campers.

6. Click here for my conversation as a guest on the wonderful #Am Writing Podcast; I share about my experience doing everything digital by voice, after losing the ability to use my hands to accomplish digital – and lots of analog – tasks.

7. If you are a Ninja Parenting Community member, click here for member Jen's success story, about helping her daughter overcome fears about coronavirus and house fires. She did this in such a cool way (I read out the success story today in this episode).
   Not a member? Click here to become one.

8. Click OkayCon.com for OkayCon 2020, the FREE Virtual Summit going on right now here at We Turned out Okay!

9. Click here to join the Facebook group – that way you can be part of the OkayCon 2020 watch parties every Monday and Wednesday evening at 8 PM Eastern!

10. I share HUGE news today, about the Happy-in-Place Challenge going on in The Ninja Parenting Community (it starts on April 16, my birthday : )
    Right now you can join NPC for just $1 for your first month and each consecutive month thereafter at 50% off the standard monthly rate! You can cancel at any time, so there is no risk… Only the hope, support, and accountability that membership brings.
    Go to weturnedoutokay.com/joinnpc for details and to sign up!

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Today we are bringing back – for the fifth time! – beloved guest, an expert in teaching kids coping skills, Janine Halloran LMHC of copingskillsforkids.com.
We discuss:
– How Janine is thinking about school work and all this extra time at home with kids and family
– The kinds of questions her clients are bringing to her right now, in spring 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic
– Why a child's behavior is most likely worse than usual right now
– What you can do about that, if that's the case in your home

Join us!
(Click the following link for the video of our talk, and also notes from today's conversation: weturnedoutokay.com/324)

How are you staying positive? Let me know!

In our Facebook group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1607987166145505/

in Instagram:
http://instagram.com/weturnedoutokay

in Twitter:
http://twitter.com/weturnedoutokay

All during April's FREE OkayCon 2020 Virtual Summit we're having live watch parties, so we can keep each other company in this era where we all need that!

Sign up to be notified about the guests and watch parties:
https://weturnedoutokay.com/weekly

Join the We Turned Out Okay Facebook group, where the watch parties are happening each Monday and Wednesday all through April, by clicking here.

Find out details about the summit itself:
http://okaycon.com

We will get through this together : )
Cheers!
Karen
Karen Lock Kolp, M.Ed. of https://weturnedoutokay.com

Helping parents change kids' behavior from bad to good, feel happy inside, and TRULY enjoy family time : )

PS Join my email newsgroup for lots of useful, free parenting tools, as well as lots of info on OkayCon, our Virtual Summit that is ongoing right now: sign up at weturnedoutokay.com/weekly

If you need some extra support, especially right now with all the madness, I'm offering special membership rates if you want to join our private coaching community, NPC. Click here for details and to join, so I can personally help you through this extremely challenging time!

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Hey friends! I hope everyone you love is doing okay. And if you're going a little stir crazy, I hope I can help!

I've been working hard behind the scenes to put together a Virtual Summit, bringing you the best ideas, from experts in their fields, to help you through this double pandemic – of Covid 19, and Fear.

So! Each Monday and Wednesday at OkayCon.com during April 2020 I'm releasing presentations by experts in:
– Children's behavior
– Home and family security
– Helping children through this time
– How to find a job if you've been laid off
– and lots more!

Each Monday and Wednesday I'm posting the presentation at OkayCon.com, and simulcasting in YouTube and Facebook.

And each Monday and Wednesday evening at 8 PM EST we're having a watch party in the We Turned Out Okay Facebook group – click here to join our group (and use that link to invite anyone you think needs a boost!)

Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly to get notified automagically about the presentation for that day, and the watch party for that night!

I know this is a scary time. It's scary for me too! But we will get through this together.

I'm so grateful for you, and I am hopeful that I can bring you some help and support right now.

Cheers and I'll see you each Monday and Wednesday (starting tomorrow!) in April for OkayCon 2020 <3

Karen

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During our Ninja Parenting Community live members only call last week, many members expressed frustration with all the list of activities coming at us, but the lists are often in a somewhat disorganized fashion.

So I wanted to give you a list, organized by how much time/input required by us parents!

Read the complete list at: weturnedoutokay.com/323

Announcing OkayCon, We Turned Out Okay's FREE virtual summit!
All the first week of April 2020, and into the second week of April 2020 (and possibly beyond : ) I am bringing you, completely free, presentations by people with answers you need right now:
– How to keep your family and home safe and secure
– How to foster the coping skills necessary to get through all this
– How to stock up and what to cook right now
– How to occupy the hours that you are stuck at home with your kiddo
– And lots more!
Go to okaycon.com for details (and also to watch starting next week!)

You are not alone.
If you've got questions or just feel like you cannot go on, email me and we can talk about it (I share my email address in today's episode)!

Join my Weekly Parenting Newsletter group for support, good information, and ideas for staying sane right now: weturnedoutokay.com/weekly

Get the extra support and encouragement you need right now by joining our private coaching community, the Ninja Parenting Community – at the Friends & Family rate, $1 for your whole first month - at weturnedoutokay.com/joinNPC

Also, lots of hugs coming your way for me!
We will get through this together <3

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So, I say I'm going to drop an F bomb in the beginning segment of this episode, but we decided to edit it out, so no worries about earmuffs :-)

Re coronavirus: I had an anxiety attack this morning, before I was even fully awake. To help you in case you are experiencing heightened anxiety right now as well, I start off today’s show with audio from a video series I’m doing on how to feel better during this time of fear, worry, and coronavirus threats.

The video has its own post, with a cheat sheet of the ways I’m finding to alleviate the anxieties, available at https://weturnedoutokay.com/cv2

Go to https://weturnedoutokay.com/weekly to get these videos automagically delivered right into your inbox. We will get through this together 💕

———————-
Re the new ninja tactic:

I am SO excited to share this with you, a new ninja tactic that is absolutely great for regulating screen time!
Do you struggle with getting your kids to stop watching TV, or the tablet, or stop using your (or their) phone?
This is the show for you. I lay out exactly what words to say, to make this work – to get your kids to listen to you and actually control the screen time!
Join us : )

Here is the link to this post

Links that come up in this episode:
– weturnedoutokay.com/weekly, where you can sign up for the newsletters I send out each week! They are extremely useful, like this one about what to do when your child is disrespectful, and plus I love corresponding with you!

– The original post by our NPC member, who first brought this ninja tactic to my attention

– creatingchampionsforlife.com, the place our NPC member first learned of this tactic

– Bonnie and Thomas's video, outlining the tactic

– Positive Discipline Ninja Tactics, my first book, which contains lots more tools you can use in the stressful moments of parenting to get your kids to do what you want them to do : )

– weturnedoutokay.com/joinnpc, where you can become a member of the Ninja Parenting Community (just as this member did) and learn to overcome the challenges that are stopping you from truly enjoy family time

Thanks for reading, and listening!

Today's episode is sponsored by the amazing Janine Halloran, expert in teaching kids coping skills, who has created a great resource to help your child handle it when the going gets tough!
Listen to today's show to find out how to get 15% off your order, and then
Click copingskillsforkids.com/okay to check out Janine's Coping Skills for Kids Cue Card Decks.

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Today's guests have written a book, called Screen Schooled, which has had a huge impact on how I think about my teenagers and their educations.
I found Matt Miles' and Joe Clement's book so compelling, and so full of great ideas for helping teens navigate the modern technical world, that I knew I wanted their take on young kids and tech. (They are both parents, each raising young children in their families.)
I knew I wanted to bring that perspective to you!
We discuss:
– How 21st-century skills are the same skills that human beings have needed throughout history
– What those most important skills are (hint: they are not tapping/swiping/navigating in our devices)
– How to incorporate technology into your life and family, for the biggest benefits and least amount of frustration and worry
– Matt and Joe's responses to some fantastic We Turned Out Okay Facebook group questions:
"Any advice on what is actually helpful for preschoolers when it comes to learning and technology? There are a million apps and games billed as "educational" but what's actually beneficial?"

"Often I hear the advice to "talk to your children about what they're watching/playing"… So far the only times I've used this technique is to help them see why a certain game is questionable. I don't otherwise ENJOY talking about the inane stuff they choose to do on their devices, so talking to them about it positively is really hard. What advice do these teachers have?"

"Will our children fall behind if they are not introduced to much technology at young ages?"

"I'm interested to hear how things have changed during [Matt and Joe's] careers, and how they anticipate things evolving in the future… Since most of us have little kids and it's hard to conceive of the world they'll be living in 10 to 15 years from now."

Hope you enjoy this conversation!

(Here is the link to this post : )

PS One place where you can get help with your challenges while raising little kids is the online community that I run, NPC.
During January 2020 you can spend your whole first month in the community for just $1! Click here for details.)

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter Each Wednesday I send out a Parenting Newsletter, to help you stay sane while raising your kiddos.
I've written newsletters on everything from remaining calm when they are throwing dirt at each other, to what to do when you feel like a failure.
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

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When my husband Ben went grocery shopping this weekend, there were empty shelves instead of many things we normally get. Earlier in the day there had been not one but two fistfights in our local grocery store over supplies!

If you're worrying about interruptions in the supply chain, the stock market, and other factors related to (or attributed to, anyway) coronavirus, you are not alone.

And right off the bat I want to say: we will get through this together.

How we get through this is how we get through any crisis: by not panicking. By staying positive. With LOTS of handwashing. And by helping our family members feel safe.

Today I'm sharing ideas for talking with your kids about coronavirus, as well as the best ideas I've learned regarding prevention and containment.
I am a child development expert, not a doctor, so I am linking here to several resources that have excellent information on stuff that is out of my purview, such as: Number of cases; who is most likely to get infected; how can you limit your chances of getting coronavirus; and how can you keep kids from getting it, or the flu.

Read on for 14 ideas to help your family, watch the video above to round out those ideas (and check the bottom of this post for the bonus podcast episode I'm doing; should be out sometime late in the first week of March 2020) – and most of all take heart.

We will get through this, together <3

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Screens are here to stay – which is awesome on the one hand, and completely frightening on the other.
Especially when it comes to little kids.
It's so hard to know:
– what is the right amount of screen time
– what is damaging or detrimental
– how to come up with guidelines about this in the first place
– how to implement those guidelines in the second

We discuss all of this today – in fact, we are talking kids and tech all month!

Join us as we kick off with a show about the basics:
Good guidelines to keep in mind with kids and technology, and also how you can implement those guidelines.
Click play to dive in!

Here's a cheat sheet for this episode:

The guidelines –
1. We all need boredom in our lives.
Having digital (or nondigital, for that matter) distractions for every moment when we might feel bored creates people who do not know how to amuse themselves.
It even creates people who don't know themselves.
So while it might not feel great, making sure that kids have a chance to be bored and need to figure out how to amuse themselves is super important.

2. Less is more.
The more time digital devices spend turned over and put away on a high shelf, the better.

3. Don't let tech interfere with human connection and bonding.

How to implement the guidelines –
1. Pick your time with care.
2. Put the tech away, for lots of every day.
3. Always, ALWAYS be sure to watch YouTube along with your kids.
As kids and media specialist Devorah Heitner says, "there is no safe way for young children to watch YouTube alone."
4. Mind your own tech use as well.

Here are the links that come up in today's episode:
– The newsletter I did about YouTube, the most dangerous place on the Internet.
(And here is where you can sign up to get future newsletters delivered right into your inbox : )

– Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood, a great PBS show

– Anti-bullying expert Brooks Gibbs invites kids to try and bully him

– https://weturnedoutokay.com/joinnpc, the place where you can work closely with me to solve your biggest parenting challenges, feel happy inside, and truly enjoy family time <3

Today's episode is sponsored by the amazing Janine Halloran, expert in teaching kids coping skills, who has created a great resource to help your child handle it when the going gets tough!
Listen to today's show to find out how to get 15% off your order, and then
Click copingskillsforkids.com/okay to check out Janine's Coping Skills for Kids Cue Card Decks.

Thanks for listening and reading!

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What do you do when:
– Your six-year-old witnessed a traumatic event, and is so traumatized that he feels he can never be away from your side
– Your four-year-old "really misses mommy and daddy" and cannot enjoy his enrichment class
– You fear your three-year-old's "declining independence," because she increasingly needs you by her side as she is going potty, getting dressed, and going to sleep at night
– Your seven-year-old is afraid to be alone in the upstairs of your house, while you are downstairs
– Your 11-year-old is feeling anxious about getting separated while skiing

Each of these situations come up in today's Live Case Study…
Join us and find out how to handle each!

PS - 50% off the annual Ninja Parenting Community rate

NPC member BabyBrain worried about her daughter's fear of being alone in any room in their new house – so, she asked for help.
And I created an entire course on handling your child's clingy behavior.
This course is a drop in the bucket of all the resources available for you there, to help you enjoy family time more.

This Leap Year, take the leap – 50% off Annual NPC membership!

Jump into the Ninja Parenting Community and start enjoying family life for real!
Click here for details, and to join at this amazing rate!

The following links come up in today's Case Study: My conversation with Dr. Laura Markham in episode 255 of the We Turned Out Okay podcast, https://weturnedoutokay.com/255

Some fantastic downloads by Dr. Deborah MacNamara, including one about "what kids worry about at different ages" http://macnamara.ca/downloads/

The link where you can learn more about how to work closely with me, solving your biggest parenting challenges to get you feeling happy inside yourself and also enjoying family time: https://weturnedoutokay.com/joinnpc

Cheers! And thanks for watching/listening!
Karen
Karen Lock Kolp, M.Ed.

Website: https://weturnedoutokay.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/weturnedoutokay

Helping parents change kids' behavior from bad to good, feel happy inside, and TRULY enjoy family time : )

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So, there's a tiny swear, the word bada**, in the break of today's episode… while I'm sharing about last week's hospitalization of one of my sons.

(There is also an invitation to you, to join the Ninja Parenting Community at 50% off the standard annual rate! Click here for details : )

– A parenting book about showing up
– A new action-adventure podcast for kids ages 8 to 12
– An awesome ninja tactic for handling your child backtalk and disrespect
– A manifesto for parents by a beloved author
What do these all have in common?
They dive into the positive and important beliefs their creators have about raising kids – and being parents – in today's busy and frazzled world.
Listen in to this week's episode for lots of parenting news that will help you formulate and live your beliefs!
(Here is the link to this episode)

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter Each Wednesday I send out a Parenting Newsletter, to help you stay sane while raising your kiddos.
Past editions have included how to make it so your child wins the parent lottery (even if you did not), and helping when your child is frightened.
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

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Welcome! To listen to today's episode, scroll down to the very bottom of this post and hit the triangular "play" button. Enjoy the show!
Recently an NPC member brought up a hugely important issue, and it sparked a whole line of thinking for me that led us to this video!

Here's the issue: "It would be interesting to hear some data/facts on how harmful NOT disciplining your kids can be. So many times we focus on the negative effects of discipline – spanking, timeouts, etc., but what's easy to forget is just how dangerous it is to take a backseat parenting your children."

So let's have a parenting-style smackdown:
Which is worse, Passive or Dictatorial Parenting?

The winner is… Both!
The worst parts of passive parenting – the lack of boundaries and having any expectations about our children's behavior – and the worst parts of authoritarian (which here I'm calling dictatorial or autocratic) – exerting control, simply for control's sake – both amount to a kind of neglect.

• The passive parenting amounts to neglect because it is terrifying for children to not have any boundaries or expectations for good behavior.
• The authoritarian parenting amounts to neglect because in this style, no thought is given to the child's experience, thinking, or ability to reason.

What should we do instead?
We should try to hit the middle of the spectrum. Somewhere between the extremes of Passive, and Authoritarian, lies Authoritative, also called Wise. It's the kind of parenting that will help you raise healthy and happy kids.
"The children of psychologically Wise parents," Angela Duckworth writes in Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance, fare better than children raised in any other kind of household."

We dive into all that today!
I hope it helps you garner the courage to make any necessary changes in your parenting style.

Links and notes at: weturnedoutokay.com/318
Special thank you to the ninja parent who asked this question. I hope this helps <3

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter Each week I send out a couple parenting newsletters, to help you stay sane while raising your kiddos.
I just wrapped up a series on "Kids gone sideways," all about what to do when with meltdowns, disrespect, and potty training challenges…
Useful stuff!
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

Today's episode is sponsored by the amazing Janine Halloran, expert in teaching kids coping skills, who has created some great resources to help your child handle it when the going gets tough!
Listen to today's show to find out how to get 15% off your order, and then
Click copingskillsforkids.com/okay to check out Janine's Coping Skills for Kids Cue Card Decks.

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Will you be my Valentine? I have a special gift exclusively for newsletter subscribers… Click here to read my most recent newsletter (all about Valentine's Day) and to subscribe!

"Schools are way, way behind the times when it comes to what kids need today," one of today's guests, educational psychologist Dr. Rob Reiher, shares during our conversation.
Rob and his podcast cohost, Wayne Yercha, teamed up because they saw a disparity not just in schools, but in children's entertainment.

So they created two shows! Live Above the Noise is the "for parents" show about helping kids find, and listen to, their inner voice – and speaking personally, it's a show that survived my 2019 digital reset because they give real insight into how we can best raise our little kids.

Their other show, Shieldstar Knights, debuts this week! It's an action-adventure show for kids ages 8 to 12, and differs from most other kids' entertainment by solving problems in other ways besides violence. (It's definitely geared towards kids between eight and 12, it would be pretty scary for younger children! Maybe listen, before you introduce it to your kids, just to be sure : )
We dig into both, and lots more, in this episode of We Turned Out Okay.

Join us!

Click weturnedoutokay.com/317 for everything we talk about in today's episode : )

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter Each week I send out a couple parenting newsletters, to help you stay sane while raising your kiddos. (This one is about enjoying Valentine's Day when you've got littles running around and includes the link to become a subscriber yourself.)
I just wrapped up a series on "Kids gone sideways," so you can learn what to do when even the basics are a challenge!
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

Click here for the We Turned Out Okay Facebook group.

And if you need some extra support for the tough parts of your parenting journey, join the private coaching community that I run! Click here to find out more, and to join.

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What we believe influences everything: our thoughts, our interactions, our relationships, and in the end our reality.
But it can be really hard to nail down what we actually believe.
In today's episode I take you into my beliefs, show you how I figured out what they are, and most importantly help you clarify your own.
It's a master class in getting the reality that you want most – both as a parent and as a person. I hope you find this episode helpful!

Click weturnedoutokay.com/316 for a cheat sheet on how to define your beliefs, and on the links that come up in today's episode.

Also – Throughout February, in Instagram, I am posting my beliefs!
Click Instagram.com/weturnedoutokay (or find @weturnedoutokay in the app) to see them!
Thanks for listening!

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter Each week I send out a couple parenting newsletters, to help you stay sane while raising your kiddos. (In today's episode I talk about the most recent newsletter, on the role kindness plays in improving my health, as I have lived with a tendon disorder for eight and half years.)
We're doing a series right now on "Kids gone sideways," so you can learn what to do when even the basics are a challenge!
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

Today's episode is sponsored by the amazing Janine Halloran, expert in teaching kids coping skills, who has created some great resources to help your child handle it when the going gets tough!
Listen to today's show to find out how to get 15% off your order, and then
Click copingskillsforkids.com/okay to check out Janine's Coping Skills for Kids Cue Card Decks.

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Hey friends! I'm excited to be a part of the launch of a new podcast, FAM – For All Moms. In this quickie bonus episode, you get to hear from Susan and Sharzad, the creators themselves, about their journeys to motherhood. (Click here for the trailer and additional information about FAM.)

The podcast is available right now, so if you like what you hear, be sure to find FAM - For All Moms in your favorite podcatcher!

Enjoy!!

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FYI: If you need support keeping your sanity while raising kiddos, try out my private coaching community (called the Ninja Parenting Community)! You can spend your whole first month in the community for just $1 - but only when you join by Friday 1/31. Click here for details!)

Welcome to our first ever Parenting News Roundup!
Over the month of January a theme has developed around here, with the interview and podcast episodes all relating to the idea of self worth.
This month I wanted to focus on parenting news that also had to do with us parents, feeling worthy and in tune with ourselves.
So, what does that have to do with boys, and medication for ADHD? You'll have to listen to find out : )

Click weturnedoutokay.com/315 for links to everything I talk about today, including the articles featured in today's Parenting News!

I'm teaching a Free Online Parenting Class on successful potty training this coming Thursday, January 30! Go to weturnedoutokay.com/successful for details and to register.

Ideas and Tools that Matter as You Raise Your Kids Each Wednesday I send out a Parenting Newsletter, to help you stay sane while raising your kiddos.
I've written newsletters on everything from remaining calm when they are throwing dirt at each other, to handling hangry meltdowns and what that has to do with our own self-worth.
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

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"My dad and stepmom are, simply put, selfish and controlling. They guilt me about not seeing my son more often, and usually want us to drive an hour out to their very not-kid-friendly house. How do I find a line of how often to see/talk to them that works for me and my kid?"
So writes one of our most beloved ninja parents, known in the Ninja Parenting Community forums as Mama Llama.
Maybe her feelings are familiar to you?
In this episode, I outline 5 ways for you to get control of your relationship with your folks (or your in-laws) – on your terms.
Join us!
Cheat sheet of the five ways, plus key links and other good stuff, are located at: weturnedoutokay.com/314

PS This subject is covered far more deeply in the community that I run, NPC.
During January 2020 you can spend your whole first month in the community for just $1! Click here for details.)

Parenting News that Matters as You Raise Your Kids Each Wednesday I send out a Parenting Newsletter, to help you stay sane while raising your kiddos.
I've written newsletters on everything from remaining calm when they are throwing dirt at each other, to last week's, on handling hangry meltdowns and what that has to do with our own self-worth.
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

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My wellness coach is here for YOU today!

"Linda," who's going incognito for our conversation, shares about so much:
– Her own wellness journey
– What it was like for her to raise a child with special needs
– How to get what you want out of life

Hope you enjoy this conversation and find it helpful!

Here is the link to the show notes for this episode : )

PS One place where you can get help with your own challenges while raising little kids is the online community that I run, NPC.
During January 2020 you can spend your whole first month in the community for just $1! Click here for details.)

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter Each Wednesday I send out a Parenting Newsletter, to help you stay sane while raising your kiddos.
I've written newsletters on everything from remaining calm when they are throwing dirt at each other, to what to do when you feel like a failure.
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

Key Links Click here for the VIA Character Institute website. Linda and I have used their Character Strength Tool and talk about it in today's conversation.

Click here for the We Turned Out Okay Facebook group.

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Happy New Year!! In 2019 I had two goals:
1. To fit into my ski pants
2. To be in control of my food intake

If my ski pants fit, that meant I could go skiing and spend wonderful, exhilarating time with loved ones!
And if I could be in control of my food intake, that meant I wouldn't inadvertently hijack other goals that I had about health and weight loss.
Today I share about how I met those goals, through a 5-step process that I hope will be helpful as you work to achieve your goals!

Links and other stuff I share in this episode are located at weturnedoutokay.com/312

Join us!

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter Each Wednesday I send out a Parenting Newsletter, to help you stay sane while raising your kiddos.
We're doing a series right now on what to do when you feel like a failure, and who among us hasn't felt like that at some point?
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

Cheat sheet of the 5 steps to get what you want out of life: 1. Declare yourself worthy.
This is a tough one! I do it with something that I call "mirror chats."

2. Decide what you want.
This one feels deceptively easy, but sometimes it can take a while to figure out what we actually want.

3. Decide where you want to be with that goal… By a certain date.

4. Take one small step most days, or weeks.

5. Assess how it's going once a week.
Also, as part of this, find something to celebrate each week.

My One Word is: ENOUGH
this was such a tough one, I had to choose between two words and the people in my email newsgroup were so helpful as I made my choice! If that was you, thank you so much!

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Continuing in this end-of-year "big idea" line of thinking, one of our beloved Ninja Parenting Community members recently asked a huge, and great question:

"How can I relax and enjoy our relationship more and not feel like I'm always on the edge of discipline mode or like I should have handled things differently [with my 3-year-old]?"

Effectively she's asking: do I have to control my young child's behavior all the time, or is there anything else besides that?

Today's episode is my response.

Video, the notes I posted in NPC, and links to everything we talk about are located at weturnedoutokay.com/311

Join us!

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter Each Wednesday I send out a Parenting Newsletter, to help you stay sane while raising your kiddos.
We're doing a series right now on what to do when you feel like a failure, and who among us hasn't felt like that at some point?
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

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"He asked me tonight who God was…"
When Ninja Parenting Community member Mama Llama shared about this conversation with her three-year-old, I knew you were going to want to hear about it too.

This is a short-and-sweet episode (and it's topsy-turvy, with the other stuff coming after the main part of the show, rather than before.)

But don't be fooled by its brevity. We talk about something big! So big, maybe it can only be glimpsed at by us. I am excited to share, somewhat different, episode with you.

Plus in Parenting News:
I read from a recent Miss Conduct column on in-laws, and parents, and boundaries – and how you can feel good about yours.
(Ninja parents: click here for the live, members-only call which comes up in today's Parenting News! If you're not yet a member, but you would like to become one, click here.)

PS If this is a holiday celebration time of year for you, I hope it's wonderful!

Join us!

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter Each Wednesday I send out a Parenting Newsletter, to help you stay sane while raising your kiddos.
We're doing a series right now on what to do when you feel like a failure, and who among us hasn't felt like that at some point?
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

Today's episode is sponsored by the amazing Janine Halloran, expert in teaching kids coping skills, who has created a great resource to help your child handle it when the going gets tough!
Listen to today's show to find out how to get 15% off your order, and then
Click copingskillsforkids.com/okay to check out Janine's Coping Skills for Kids Cue Card Decks.

Link to this post: weturnedoutokay.com/310

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I love this conversation. It's different from many of the others I've done, a little less focused on children and family… And more focused on how today's guest, Sunny Gault, found fulfillment within herself and built a career in helping other parents find fulfillment.

Consequently Sunny is able to love and support her family, as they love and support her.

Come with me on a deep dive into one mom's journey. You may, as I did, recognize yourself in Sunny's choices, thoughts, and actions.

You may also, as I did, learn a good deal about how you might build that fulfilling life yourself!

Join us!

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter Each Wednesday I send out a Parenting Newsletter, to help you stay sane while raising your kiddos.
We're doing a series right now on what to do when you feel like a failure, and who among us hasn't felt like that at some point?
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

Today's episode is sponsored by the amazing Janine Halloran, expert in teaching kids coping skills, who has created some great resources to help your child handle it when the going gets tough!
Listen to today's show to find out how to get 15% off your order, and then
Click copingskillsforkids.com/okay to check out Janine's Coping Skills for Kids Cue Card Decks and activity books.

Link to this post: weturnedoutokay.com/309

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This question came directly from a ninja parent with this problem:
"I can't identify a trigger but [my three-year-old] wakes up sometime around 1 to 3 AM and is just wide-awake and mad that it's not morning yet. Any tips on sleep stuff?"

In this episode we talk about what to do when your child wakes up in the middle of the night and doesn't want to go back to sleep.

Join us!

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter Each Wednesday I send out a Parenting Newsletter, to help you stay sane while raising your kiddos.
Past editions have included how to make it so your child wins the parent lottery (even if you did not), and helping when your child is frightened.
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

Today's episode is sponsored by the amazing Janine Halloran, expert in teaching kids coping skills, who has created a great resource to help your child handle it when the going gets tough!
Listen to today's show to find out how to get 15% off your order, and then
Click copingskillsforkids.com/okay to check out Janine's Coping Skills for Kids Cue Card Decks.

Link to this post: weturnedoutokay.com/308

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Welcome to the fourth and final installment in our series about school, and how it can screw up your child, and how to make sure that that does not happen!
Today we discuss the dangers that come with someone feeling continually assessed, judged, and evaluated.
I work really hard to give you ideas to overcome this challenge.

Plus in Parenting News:
I share about this documentary that I first watched in college as a human development major. (Based on this documentary… Some of what's in the other is also here, but there is more here that is not covered in the other. I recommend watching them both!)
Recently it came up again, and I'm excited because I get to share with you today!

Also! If you can be at the Bancroft Memorial Library in Hopedale, Massachusetts this coming Saturday 12/7 between noon and 3 PM, come say hi - I'll be there as an author in their local authors book fair : )

Join us!

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter Each Wednesday I send out a Parenting Newsletter, to help you stay sane while raising your kiddos.
Past editions have included how to make it so your child wins the parent lottery (even if you did not), and helping when your child is frightened.
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

Today's episode is sponsored by the amazing Janine Halloran, expert in teaching kids coping skills, who has created a great resource to help your child handle it when the going gets tough!
Listen to today's show to find out how to get 15% off your order, and then
Click copingskillsforkids.com/okay to check out Janine's Coping Skills for Kids Cue Card Decks.

Link to this post: weturnedoutokay.com/307

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It's almost time! -- NPC Cyber Monday special: 30% off of annual Ninja Parenting Community membership… Get on the waiting list (and get 7 of my best parenting resources – for free) by clicking weturnedoutokay.com/cybermonday!

In this episode find out:
– What's the right age for starting soccer
– What to do with your three-year-old's tantrums
– How to handle night terrors in your young child
– How to deal with disrespect
We're bringing you some GREAT questions from the parents I work closely with in our private, online community! (If you're not a member, but you would like to become one, click here.)
I hope it's helpful as you head into this Thanksgiving week!
Link to this post: weturnedoutokay.com/306 <3

Plus in Parenting News:
Since Max and Jay were very small, we have made Arlo Guthrie's 18-minute, recorded-live song Alice's Restaurant part of our Thanksgiving tradition. Today I explain why. (FYI – You may want to listen on your own before introducing this song to your children, as it does get into some themes you may not deem them ready for yet.)

Join us!

Today's episode is sponsored by the amazing Janine Halloran, expert in teaching kids coping skills, who has created a great resource to help your child handle it when the going gets tough!
Listen to today's show to find out how to get 15% off your order, and then
Click copingskillsforkids.com/okay to check out Janine's Coping Skills for Kids Cue Card Decks.

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Surprise! Bonus episode on how to have a happy Thanksgiving!

Special thanks to Graham Smith and Kirsten Dunlap of the Welcome Home podcast, and Desirae Endres of Minimal-ish, for sharing in this edition of We Turned Out Okay…
We are connecting our shows, each of us with a "Best Thanksgiving Day Ever" in a pod hop, similar to the blog hops of old!

FYI: NPC Cyber Monday special: 30% off of annual Ninja Parenting Community membership… Get on the waiting list (and get 7 of my best parenting resources – for free) by clicking weturnedoutokay.com/cybermonday!
(I literally don't even mention this in today's episode, but I wanted you to be aware of it in case you were interested : )

To have your best Thanksgiving day ever, you must deliberately focus in – choose – what you want more of.

How do you have a happy Thanksgiving? It'll depend on your focus.

Today I share 4 ways I'm thinking about, 4 things I'm choosing. Maybe you'll want to focus on them too!

Links to the Welcome Home and Minimal-ish versions of how to have the best Thanksgiving Day ever, as well as all the links I talk about today, are available at:
weturnedoutokay.com/bestThanksgiving !

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NPC Cyber Monday special: 30% off of annual Ninja Parenting Community membership… Get on the waiting list (and get 7 of my best parenting resources – for free) by clicking weturnedoutokay.com/cybermonday!

As a preschool teacher I used to get asked all the time about when we would be teaching reading. Or writing.
I could see the stunned disbelief on parents' faces when we'd tell them "we don't teach formal academics, children learn everything they need through play."
It's patently awful, and damaging, to force kids into academic learning too soon.
And yet it's done all the time.
In this episode we discuss why, and what to do about it.

Plus in Parenting News:
I have been getting a lot out of the Live Above the Noise podcast, and so I want to highlight that for parenting news this week!

Join us!

(Links to everything talked about in this episode, plus a cheat sheet about the ideas we discussed, at weturnedoutokay.com/305 : )

Today's episode is sponsored by the amazing Janine Halloran, expert in teaching kids coping skills, who has created a great resource to help your child handle it when the going gets tough!
Listen to today's show to find out how to get 15% off your order, and then
Click copingskillsforkids.com/okay to check out Janine's Coping Skills for Kids Cue Card Decks.

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NPC Cyber Monday special: 30% off of annual Ninja Parenting Community membership… Get on the waiting list (and get 7 of my best parenting resources – for free) by clicking weturnedoutokay.com/cybermonday!

"Fortunately the children have no words to define the panic and anger they feel at constant violations of natural order and sequence fobbed off on them as quality in education." – Jon Taylor Gatto, Dumbing Us Down

Everyone likes to know what is going on, we like to have some context in our lives.

So do our kids! In this installment of our "How to stop school from screwing up your child" series, we discuss what aspects of school can sew confusion in children, how detrimental that truly is, and what we can do about it.

Cheat sheet on helping kids feel secure, sure of themselves – as well as the key links that come up in today's episode – are available at weturnedoutokay.com/304

Plus in Parenting News:
This fantastic documentary about the life of Fred Rogers. As I share here, I couldn't understand why it would be rated PG-13. And then I started watching it.
(Here is the newsletter I wrote about this documentary: How I frightened my three-year-old.)

Ninja parents: I mention in today's Parenting News segment that I just created a forum post in NPC inviting you to share a piece of news that you would like to see featured in this space. Click here to read the post, and to share your Parenting News!

Join us!

Today's episode is sponsored by the amazing Janine Halloran, expert in teaching kids coping skills, who has created a great resource to help your child handle it when the going gets tough!
Listen to today's show to find out how to get 15% off your order, and then
Click copingskillsforkids.com/okay to check out Janine's Coping Skills for Kids Cue Card Decks.

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We talk with the Mindful Mama Mentor, Hunter Clarke-Fields, in this episode of We Turned Out Okay!
Hunter is a parent coach who found real solutions to her own anger and frustration with meditation and mindfulness.
She is a force for good, and I am so excited to bring her on the show!

The title of this episode was very nearly "Mindfulness: A Cool Parental Brain Hack," which is how today's guest characterizes this state of mind in the latter part of our conversation.
I love this idea, that mindfulness can help us wrap our brain better around child-rearing and everything that comes with it.

I hope you get tons out of this conversation with Hunter Clarke-Fields, of the Mindful Mama Podcast. I know I did!

Plus in Parenting News:

I plan to be at an event that might interest you, if you can be at the Newton Community Farm in Newton Massachusetts on Saturday, November 9: A movie screening, and author signing!
Ken Danford, author of Learning is Natural, School is Optional, a book I am currently reading and loving, will be on hand to sign copies! And us attendees also get to see a movie about self-directed learning and how cool it is.
Hope to see you there! (Click here to sign up for the event : )

And we talk about social-emotional learning in schools, and how it's positively impacting not just the kids, but their families, teachers, administrators, and guidance counselors.

Join us!

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter Each Wednesday I send out a Parenting Newsletter, to help you stay sane while raising your kiddos.
Past editions have included remaining calm even if your kids are throwing dirt at each other, and helping when your child is frightened.
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

Here is the link to this episode: weturnedoutokay.com/303

Today's episode is sponsored by the amazing Janine Halloran, expert in teaching kids coping skills, who has created a great resource to help your child handle it when the going gets tough!
Listen to today's show to find out how to get 15% off your order, and then
Click copingskillsforkids.com/okay to check out Janine's Coping Skills for Kids Cue Card Decks.

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"This morning we were reading a space book and [my three-year-old] was talking about how he was going to kill the astronauts. Aggressive talk really freaks me out."

When one of the parents I mentor in the Ninja Parenting Community posted this recently, I knew that you might be hearing "aggressive talk" with your child as well.

Why DO kids seem to talk and think so much about death, and killing?

We get into that today, and I share 3 ways you can address what might seem an unhealthy obsession with the macabre.

Plus in Parenting News:
We discuss this recent Boston Globe article, about young schoolchildren not being given enough time to eat their lunch, the problems parents are seeing as a result, and what they are doing to try to make it better.

Also! I plan to be at an event that might interest you, if you can be at the Newton Community Farm in Newton Massachusetts on Saturday, November 9: A movie screening, and author signing!
Ken Danford, author of Learning is Natural, School is Optional, a book I am currently reading and loving, will be on hand to sign copies! And us attendees also get to see a movie about self-directed learning and how cool it is.
Hope to see you there! (Click here to sign up for the event : )

Join us!

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter Each Wednesday I send out a Parenting Newsletter, to help you stay sane while raising your kiddos.
Past editions have included remaining calm even if your kids are throwing dirt at each other, and helping when your child is frightened.
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

Access the cheat sheet on the three ways to help when your child seems overly excited by death and killing; plus links to everything we talk about today, by clicking weturnedoutokay.com/302

Today's episode is sponsored by the amazing Janine Halloran, expert in teaching kids coping skills, who has created a great resource to help your child handle it when the going gets tough!
Listen to today's show to find out how to get 15% off your order, and then
Click copingskillsforkids.com/okay to check out Janine's Coping Skills for Kids Cue Card Decks.

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There are lots of reasons why we want our kids to become independent, in their actions and their thinking. (If for no other reason than, when our kids are independent, we do less for them. This means we are happier, and also it helps help our children understand the joys of being part of a system in which we all work together.)

Today's episode is about how, if we're not careful, we might be teaching in the opposite.

Today we discuss the possibility that simply attending school could make our children dependent on others for their intellectual and emotional well-being – and how truly dangerous that is.

Plus in Parenting News:
My latest book, Educating Happy Kids: 9 Ways to Help Your Children Learn What They Need to Know, is available for you to buy! And it has the CUTEST cover!
If you want to learn about educating your child in the way that will help them be happiest, click here and read this book.

Join us!

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter Each Wednesday I send out a Parenting Newsletter, to help you stay sane while raising your kiddos.
Past editions have included remaining calm even if your kids are throwing dirt at each other, and helping when your child is frightened.
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

Access the cheat sheet on fostering your child's inner intellectual and emotional development, plus links to stuff discussed in this episode, by clicking weturnedoutokay.com/301

Today's episode is sponsored by the amazing Janine Halloran, expert in teaching kids coping skills, who has created a great resource to help your child handle it when the going gets tough!
Listen to today's show to find out how to get 15% off your order, and then
Click copingskillsforkids.com/okay to check out Janine's Coping Skills for Kids Cue Card Decks.

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We're celebrating today, 300 episodes of We Turned Out Okay!
I am super excited to welcome back beloved guests Tricia Tomaso, preschool teacher extraordinaire, and Janine Halloran, coping skills expert, for a roundtable discussion talking about social and emotional learning, and if schools actually do screw up kids… And we're also answering your questions in this tri-centennial episode!

Join us!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/300 for the bazillion links we discuss today…
And FYI Parenting News, and Magic Words for Parents, will be back next week.

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter * Each Wednesday I send out a Parenting Newsletter, to help you remain sane while raising your kiddos!
Past editions have included:
– How to get your child to take more responsibility
– How to teach your child social skills
– Under what circumstances, if any, you should let your child watch YouTube.
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

Today's episode is sponsored by the amazing Janine Halloran, expert in teaching kids coping skills, who has created a great resource to help your child handle it when the going gets tough!
Listen to today's show to find out how to get 15% off your order, and then
Click copingskillsforkids.com/okay to check out Janine's Coping Skills for Kids Cue Card Decks.

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"I am still just so scared these challenges are going to last forever, and school and daily life will always be a struggle. It's so hard to see the stuff other kids can do that [my three-year-old] just can't."

If this lament – if these fears – sound familiar, I hope today's episode will help.

Raising children is a hard job, especially when you're worried about a child's behavior, and if it's normal or not.

In this episode we've got 5 ways for you to feel better about the bad behavior, and how you're doing as a parent!

Plus in Parenting News:
A wonderful, funny, sweet TED talk by comedian Julia Sweeney on her chat with her eight-year-old about the birds and the bees.
Watch it – without the kids around, at least at first – to determine if it might be useful to you, when it's time for you to have that same talk. And also to smile.

Join us!

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter * + Each Wednesday I send out a Parenting Newsletter, to help you stay sane while raising your kiddos.
Past editions have included:
– How to remain calm even if your kids are throwing dirt at each other
– A tool to help you consistently get good behavior from your children
– How to teach your child social skills
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

Read more about the 5 ways to feel better (mentioned above), and check out the links for this episode, by clicking weturnedoutokay.com/299

Today's episode is sponsored by the amazing Janine Halloran, expert in teaching kids coping skills, who has created a great resource to help your child handle it when the going gets tough!
Listen to today's show to find out how to get 15% off your order, and then
Click copingskillsforkids.com/okay to check out Janine's Coping Skills for Kids Cue Card Decks.

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This episode almost didn't make it.
Not because I don't think it is wicked important. I do think that.
But because I worried about hurting your feelings.

Ultimately (as you'll hear in the first five minutes or so) I decided to bring it to you, because from everything I'm seeing, school is broken.
Systemically.
In the long-term, I hope we can work together to fix it.
But in the short-term, we need to make sure that it's not screwing up our kids.

Plus in Parenting News: This TED talk by Allison Legerwood, "A Simple Trick to Improve Positive Thinking." Much-needed and much appreciated!

Join us!

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter * + Each Wednesday I send out a Parenting Newsletter, to help you remain sane while raising your kiddos.
Past editions have included:
– How to remain calm even if your kids are throwing dirt at each other
– A free tool you can use to create order from the chaos of your busy week
– How to teach your child social skills
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

Today's episode is sponsored by the amazing Janine Halloran, expert in teaching kids coping skills, and an incredible resource she has created to help your child handle it when the going gets tough!
Listen to today's show to find out how to get 15% off your order, and then
Click copingskillsforkids.com/okay to check out Janine's Coping Skills for Kids Cue Card Decks.

(Here is the link to the show notes for this post: weturnedoutokay.com/298)

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Reminder: join my Ninja Parenting Community for $1 for your first 30 days!
But only by joining before October 1!

“Thank you for all of your help! You have truly changed our lives and helped navigate some massive life changes and I am so grateful!”
– Mama Llama, Mom of a three-year-old boy and NPC member

"Karen helps me feel like I actually know what I am doing.”
– Steve, Dad of 3-and-5-year-old boys, 1-to-1 Parent Coaching Client

Click here for details – or check out the fancy-pants button I made by going to this episode's show notes : )

In this bonus We Turned Out Okay episode I offer 3 tools to help you cope with your child's aggressive, bad behavior:

• The first helps you put your child's behavior in perspective so it does not overwhelm you
• The second helps you create the best conditions for positive behavior from your child
• The third helps you feel good about your parenting journey

I hope you find it helpful!

Click here for the show notes for this episode, which include the video version of today's episode, a full transcript, and the aforementioned fancy-pants button so that you can join the Ninja Parenting Community at the Friends and Family membership rate!

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I am super excited to bring you a conversation with two of the most beloved people in podcasting, Biz Ellis and Theresa Thorn of One Bad Mother!

Take note: there WILL be swears, so listen away from your kiddos…

Also I totally mess up in describing a genius moment of my own! (I guess that's a fail at a genius moment : )
So in the preshow I try to rectify that.

Biz and Theresa are such generous people that, while I'm sure they were looking at each other with extremely confused "why is this a genius moment?" looks on their faces, they pressed on and shared so much amazing support for you.
For me.
For us.
For any parent who feels shamed, unappreciated, like a monumental screwup.
Biz and Theresa want you to know: you're doing a great job!
And I want you to know: they are right <3

Watch my video on what to do when your young child is super aggressive, and how to keep your cool when the going gets tough, by clicking
weturnedoutokay.com/parentingtools

Click here for the We Turned Out Okay Facebook group, where I took questions for Biz and Theresa – and where you can ask questions of future guests!
(It's also where I do a Facebook live every Monday called Magic Words for Parents, sharing a quick word or phrase for you to take into your parenting week : )

Plus in Parenting News: My new favorite TED talk is called "Where joy hides and how to find it." It's amazing, and illustrates a factor that's crucial to enjoying family life.

Join us!

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter * + Each Wednesday I send out a Parenting Newsletter, to help you remain sane while raising your kiddos.
Past editions have included:
– How to remain calm even if your kids are throwing dirt at each other
– A free tool you can use to create order from the chaos of your busy week
– How to teach your child social skills
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

Click weturnedoutokay.com/297 for lots of links from our conversation!

Today's episode is sponsored by the amazing Janine Halloran, expert in teaching kids coping skills, and an incredible resource she has created to help your child handle even the biggest feelings!
Listen to today's show to find out how to get 15% off your order, and then
Click copingskillsforkids.com/okay to check out Janine's Coping Skills for Kids Cue Card Decks.

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So, today's Parenting News segment makes me cry, those mushy, parenty, happy/sad tears. You know the ones. That's coming up in today's break.

Also! Join my private coaching community for just $1 for your whole first 30 days!
Get the support you need to help your child – or yourself – through the huge challenges that parenting can bring.
This is for a limited time, only through September 30, because of a technical screwup. Listen to the break for more on this.
And click here to join the Ninja Parenting Community! (That's what it's called, or NPC for short.)

If it hasn't happened already, there will likely come a day when your child says or does something super cringe-worthy.
How will you handle it?
Listen in to today's episode, to learn how to handle it best!

Plus in Parenting News:
Recently The Wall that Heals, a moving model of the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, DC, came to my area. And while it may seem like a peculiar thing to feature in the Parenting News segment, I believe it's relevant. I share why in today's break.

Also, in this episode I share about the free guide on "How to handle every temper tantrum."
Click weturnedoutokay.com/handle-tantrums-now to get the guide : )

Join us!

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter * + Each Wednesday I send out a Parenting Newsletter, to help you remain sane while raising your kiddos.
Past editions have included:
– How to remain calm even if your kids are throwing dirt at each other
– How to get your child to take more responsibility
– A specific formula for handling temper tantrums
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

Click weturnedoutokay.com/296 for show notes which include a cheat sheet of how to handle it when your child embarrasses you in public.

Today's episode is sponsored by the amazing Janine Halloran, expert in teaching kids coping skills, and an incredible resource she has created to help your child handle even the biggest feelings!
Click copingskillsforkids.com/coping-cue-cards to check out Janine's Coping Skills for Kids Cue Card Decks.

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If the anxiety is hyped up in your home right now, for kids and/or for you, hopefully you'll find this episode helpful!

It even includes a discussion, during the break, about how to deal with our own parental anxieties. I read listener Cathy's letter, sharing about her own anxiety, which starts off the thinking about what we can do to feel less anxious ourselves.

Plus in Parenting News:
I completely screw up a quote from Dr. Elven Semrad in the second half of this episode… Which led me on a search to find out more about this beloved psychotherapist. In Parenting News I bring you this short article, sharing some of his other quotes and thoughts on life.

Join us!

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter * + Each Wednesday I send out a Parenting Newsletter, to help you remain sane while raising your kiddos.
Past editions have included:
– How to remain calm even if your kids are throwing dirt at each other
– How to get your child to take more responsibility
– How to teach your child social skills
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

Click weturnedoutokay.com/295 for show notes which include a cheat sheet of the 10 ways to alleviate anxiety, and tons of links!

Today's episode is sponsored by the amazing Janine Halloran, expert in teaching kids coping skills, and an incredible resource she has created to help your child handle even the biggest feelings!
Click copingskillsforkids.com/coping-cue-cards to check out Janine's Coping Skills for Kids Cue Card Decks.

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Are you, as a parent, coming to view American healthcare as a soul-sucking showstopper of happiness?
Don't despair. Today's guest, Dan Weissmann, has some great ideas and advice!

Dan sparked a movement when he began a podcast about the many ways average Americans - confronting a healthcare system that can be ruinous both financially, and healthwise - think of and approach family health and happiness.

The Arm and a Leg Podcast dives into some crazy stuff!
Listening to Dan's show you can learn about:
– A couple who discovered that their healthcare had unceremoniously dropped them just a few months before that child was due to arrive
– The story of how we got insulin, and how, due to high cost, people who rely upon it are becoming modern-day rebel cowboys, figuring out how to create it themselves
– Traveling Renaissance Faire folks who can teach you how to resolve disputes with your healthcare provider
Dan stops by today, to talk about how we got here and the true state of healthcare in America today.

Plus in Parenting News: We discuss the work of friend-of-the-podcast Devorah Heitner regarding what kids are really watching on YouTube, and how you can deal with it, in this article on her website. I also read her words from a recent Parenting Newsletter that I wrote on the dangers of YouTube for kids.

Join us!

(Click weturnedoutokay.com/294 for show notes, including a complete transcript of our conversation today.)

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter * Each Wednesday I send out a Parenting Newsletter, to help you remain sane while raising your kiddos.
Past editions have included:
– How to remain calm even if your kids are throwing dirt at each other
– How to get your child to take more responsibility
– How to teach your child social skills
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

Today's episode is sponsored by the amazing Janine Halloran, expert in teaching kids coping skills, and an incredible resource she has created to help your child handle even the biggest feelings!
Click copingskillsforkids.com/coping-cue-cards to check out Janine's Coping Skills for Kids Cue Card Decks.

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Whether public school, charter school, private school, or homeschool, this time of year brings massive changes to lots of families' lives.
It's exciting, but it can also be stressful.
Today I want to help you stay more on the positive side of the exciting/stressful balance!

How are you feeling about the start of the new school year?
Today we discuss 4 ways to start the year off right.

Important Program Notes:
– In this episode you'll hear me talk about a Streamline Your Mornings workshop, that was to take place in the We Turned Out Okay Facebook group… Instead of that I have created an in-depth, 4-part series, each exploring one way to start the year off right!
Included in the fourth part, called "A free tool you can use to streamline your family's weekly schedule," you'll find the updated We Turned Out Okay Weekly Planner. (You'll hear me talk about the Facebook group at the end of this episode, as the place where you can find that tool. Instead, to make your life super easy, click here so you can read the newsletter, and download that free PDF.)

– Also! Educating Happy Kids: 9 Ways to Help Your Young Children Learn What They Need to Know is out in the world!
If you are a Ninja Parent: click here for the forum post where you can download your FREE PDF copy of my latest parenting book!

If you are not a member of the ninja parenting community, go to weturnedoutokay.com/books for your ecopy!

I'm so excited that it's done and you can read it!

– There's a moment in this episode where I credit author and researcher Gretchen Rubin with something author and researcher Laura Vanderkam did (I rectify this in the break, but did want to tell you about it here as well). Sorry for the confusion!
Click here for Gretchen Rubin's amazing book The Four Tendencies; and click here for Lara Vanderkam's website.

Plus in Parenting News: A podcast by one of We Turned Out Okay's beloved guests! I share about the Calm and Connected podcast by coping skills expert and LMHC Janine Halloran, and talk about how it will help you get this school year off to a great start.

Join us!

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter * Each Wednesday I send out a Parenting Newsletter, to help you remain sane while raising your kiddos!
Past editions have included:
– These 4 ways to start the school year off right, expanded
– How to teach your child social skills
– Under what circumstances, if any, you should let your child watch YouTube.
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/293 for a cheat sheet on the 4 ways to start the school year off right, key links from this episode, free guides (on potty training, picky eating, and how to handle every temper tantrum), and lots more resources!
Also:

• Click here to join the We Turned Out Okay Facebook group, where every Monday I offer Magic Words for Parents, a quick word or phrase for you to take into your parenting week!
• Click here to learn more about working closely with me, either as a private coaching client or as a member of the Ninja Parenting Community

And thank you so much for listening!

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"Learning" can mean different things to different people:
– Getting good grades
– Passing a test
– Reading, writing, coding, mathematics, etc.

But how do we get to the point where we know, and can demonstrate, our knowledge?
It all starts in early childhood.
Today we dive into how young children learn best.

Plus in Parenting News: As parents, we can't be all serious and big-business. Without some downtime, we can't keep going, in child-rearing, in outside-of-the-home jobs, or within ourselves.
I have been going through some pretty major burnout, and today in Parenting News, I share about a resource that has been making me feel way better: The Adventure Zone, in both podcast and graphic novel form. If this completely awesome, totally-not-for-kids sci-fi-fantasy thing is not for you, that is absolutely fine! But take this moment to find something that does get you the downtime enjoyment that you need.

Join us!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/292 for a cheat sheet on the 3 ways kids learn best, key links from this episode, free guides (on potty training, picky eating, and how to handle every temper tantrum), and lots more resources!
Also:

• Support Right to Your Inbox
  Get weekly support to help you maintain your sanity as you raise your kiddos!
  Sign up here for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter
• Click here to join the We Turned Out Okay Facebook group, where every Monday I offer Magic Words for Parents, a quick word or phrase for you to take into your parenting week!
• Click here to learn more about working closely with me, either as a private coaching client or as a member of the Ninja Parenting Community

And thank you so much for listening!

Today's episode is sponsored by the amazing Janine Halloran, expert in teaching kids coping skills, and an incredible resource she has created to help your child handle even the biggest feelings!
Click copingskillsforkids.com/coping-cue-cards to check out Janine's Coping Skills for Kids Cue Card Decks.

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Today's guest, Anna Seewald of the Authentic Parenting Podcast, experienced a truly traumatic event in her childhood, an earthquake in which she lost her mother.
In part because of this experience, she went on to become a therapist, a woman who has dedicated her life to helping others through their toughest moments.
"My true passion is to help children to thrive," she writes.
Today we discuss many ways to help your child to do exactly that.
I know you will get a lot out of this conversation. Many thanks to Anna Seewald for coming on We Turned Out Okay!

Plus in Parenting News: Back in July I got to be a guest on Anna's show! Extending on this theme about how childhood experiences shape us, I share that I was sexually assaulted at age 7.
This experience fundamentally changed my personality, and has had repercussions through all of my life. But here's the thing, while I would of course never wish something like this on anyone, not all the repercussions have been bad.
Click authenticparenting.com/185 to listen to our conversation.
Though certainly tough in parts, overall it's a hopeful, and I really hope helpful (hence the sharing as Parenting News) conversation.

Join us!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/291 for key links from this episode, free guides (on potty training, picky eating, and how to handle every temper tantrum), and lots more resources!
Also:

• Sign up for the resource where I share great ninja tactics, a positive mindset, and some good stories to boot: Click here for my weekly parenting newsletter.
• Click here to learn more about working closely with me, either as a private coaching client or as a member of the Ninja Parenting Community

And thank you so much for listening!

Today's episode is sponsored by the amazing Janine Halloran, expert in teaching kids coping skills, and an incredible resource she has created to help your child handle even the biggest feelings!
Click copingskillsforkids.com/coping-cue-cards to check out Janine's Coping Skills for Kids Cue Card Decks.

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We have all been hit hard by the news recently. And if we, as adults, are feeling the strain and stress, it's a safe bet that our children feel it too.
How can you help?
In this bonus episode I offer five ways.

Helpful links:

Click here for episode 261 of We Turned Out Okay, my conversation with Maureen Healy (whose Bubble Breathing exercise I suggest in this episode.)

Click here for the link to the Eckerd College article about Marjorie Sanfilippo, whose study about kids and guns I talk about in this episode.

Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly to sign up for my parenting newsletter, which right now (in real-time) is an in-depth, 4-part series on how to handle overwhelmed at the start of the school year.

Click here to read this post in your browser.

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(Possibly due to Mommy Brain, I don't mention the survey link in today's episode until I've practically already said goodbye. So, here it is: weturnedoutokay.com/wreck
Click there to help me wreck this podcast : )

Also included in the survey: the chance for you to have a quick 1-to-1 call with me in September! Completely free, and without obligation. September is really hard for a lot of you, and I want to help you make it better.

Today I am asking the questions: * How can this show be better? * How can it help you more? * What do you like, what do you love, what do you wish was different?

A few months back, we passed 400,000 downloads of We Turned Out Okay.
400,000! That's almost half a million!

When I started the show more than four years ago, I couldn't even imagine 4000 downloads, never mind a hundred times that.

I felt, and still feel to this day, such gratitude to you. For getting us here, and most importantly for sticking with the show.

I do it for us. For anyone raising kids. Because I have been where you are. I totally know, from the inside, that raising kids and staying sane at the same time is a juggling act, and sometimes we feel like all the balls are falling down around us.

Let's wreck We Turned Out Okay, in the best way possible.

Here is the link to the survey I created asking those questions above.

Cheers!

(Here is the link to this episode in your browser.)

Key Links: Click here for the book Wreck this Journal, which first showed me how useful (and fun) it can be to get into the wrecking mindset!

Click here to check out the We Turned Out Okay Facebook group.

Click here to get the weekly Parenting Newsletter I send out each and every Wednesday.

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In this week's episode of We Turned Out Okay, we examine a parent's role in a child's education!

Lots of parents have no idea how to help their kiddos in learning how to read, write, do math, or code.
But these are the essential skills of the future.

How do we help our kids, when they're young, get ready for all that learning?

Find out by listening to this episode of We Turned Out Okay!

Plus in Parenting News: A really fascinating episode of Experiential Wisdom, all about lifelong learning and why it matters now, more than ever.

Join us!

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter * Each Wednesday I send out a Parenting Newsletter, to help you remain sane while raising your kiddos!
Past editions have included:
– How to get your child to take more responsibility
– How to teach your child social skills
– Under what circumstances, if any, you should let your child watch YouTube.
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/289 for lots of key links mentioned in today's episode, for free guides (on potty training, picky eating, and how to handle every temper tantrum), and lots more resources!
Also:

• Click here to learn more about working closely with me, either as a private coaching client or as a member of the Ninja Parenting Community

And thank you so much for listening!

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Do you ever feel like your family life is sliding in a direction you don't want? In today's episode you will hear how one mom, a coaching client of mine, worked with me to take control.

[caption id="attachment_2614" align="alignleft" width="300"] NPC member Jen, with her two daughters.[/caption]

Getting control over the direction her family is going has brought has meant many good things, including fun, fulfillment, and real joy.

Listen in as Jen, mother of 2 young girls, talks about what she's learned in our private coaching community, and how it has changed her life, and her family life.

Plus in Parenting News: the You Are Not So Smart Podcast did a recent episode on the super-famous Marshmallow Experiment, which has been used to predict how successful a child will be, based on their ability to delay gratification. I LOVE this podcast, which I actually started listening to because of another episode, and it is the subject of today's Parenting News because I think you would find it really helpful too.

Join us!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/288 for a rundown of the HEART method of handling every temper tantrum, which comes up in this episode!
Also:

• Click here for Positive Discipline Ninja Tactics, the book Jen mentions as essential reading in getting control of the direction her family was going
• Click here to learn more about working closely with me, either as a private coaching client or, like Jen, as a member of the Ninja Parenting Community

And thank you so much for listening!

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter * Each Wednesday I send out a Parenting Newsletter, to help you remain sane while raising your kiddos!
Past editions have included:
– How to get your child to take more responsibility
– How to teach your child social skills
– Under what circumstances, if any, you should let your child watch YouTube.
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

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How does one mom handle it, when she finds her daughters throwing dirt at each other?

(FYI: I'm taking your questions for an upcoming episode! What's on your mind about your kiddos right now? I'm a child development expert and parent coach, I'd love to help! Ask, and I'll address your question in our August 6 episode... I'm taking questions until Thursday, August 1 (which is when I'll record the episode.)
Go to weturnedoutokay.com/contact to ask your question : )

No matter the season, there's always an opportunity for kids to come into conflict with other kids.

Whether siblings, cousins, classmates or just somebody at the playground, mean words, pushing, and other acts of frustration or aggression abound.

So, do we parents just have to live with it, put up with the bickering and hard feelings?

Nope!

This masterclass is a distillation of three months' worth of work in the private, online community I run for parents of young children.
During April, May, and June 2019 we dove headfirst into the problems real parents really experience, and how to alleviate it when kids aren't getting along.

Today I'm bringing you behind the scenes, directly into the Ninja Parenting Community, sharing the information you need to help your kids actually get along!

Some of these ideas may seem unconventional, and likely (unless you are a member of NPC) they are new to you, but they REALLY work.

In fact we finish out with a success story! How does one mom handle it, when she finds her daughters throwing dirt at each other?

Find out in this episode of We Turned Out Okay!

Plus in Parenting News: This article in the Atlantic, on Fred Rogers (of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood) and how he approached speaking with children, is one of those articles I wanted to hug to my chest <3
I share why in today's Parenting News segment.
Plus I read my recent review of Audrey Monke's wonderful book, Happy Campers!

Join us!

Sign up for my Weekly Parenting Newsletter * Each Wednesday I send out a Parenting Newsletter, to help you: remain sane while raising your kiddos!
Past editions have included:
– How to get your child to take more responsibility
– How to teach your child social skills
– Under what circumstances, if any, you should let your child watch YouTube.
Useful stuff.
Click weturnedoutokay.com/weekly to receive my Weekly Parenting Newsletter, so it zooms right into your inbox each week!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/287 for:

• Notes from this Masterclass on How to Help Kids Get Along with Other Kids
• The Masterclass video
• Links to free guides on potty training, handling every temper tantrum, and more

And thank you so much for listening!

Today's episode is brought to you by…
You, if you have purchased one of my parenting books! I write books that help parents truly enjoy family time, by sharing tools and formulas that you can use to change your child's behavior from bad to good, and also that help you feel happy inside.
Go to weturnedoutokay.com/books to check them out!

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In today's bonus podcast episode I answer WTOO Facebook group member Jennifer's question about how to get kids to take responsibility without continually hovering around them and "politely interrupting" in order to get kids to clean up their messes.

I put this in the context of a roadmap, which includes three crucial steps to independence, responsibility, and guilt-free parenting.

(BTW: I share about a conversation I had recently on a wonderful show, Authentic Parenting. Click here for Anna Seewald's conversation with me, in episode 185 of her show, all about how our childhoods impact our whole lives. (You should listen away from kiddos, there are some adult themes in this episode.)

Thank you so much for listening!

I'm offering a special program, "How to do less for your kids, and feel good about it: 21 days to Independence," which starts this coming Monday, July 15. Everything I cover in this episode – and it's a lot! – has been a starting point.

This 3-week workshop is tailored specifically to your needs, very personalized (even includes videos that I make just for you each week!) and so helpful as you work to get your child to be independent and responsible.

Registration ends Sunday July 14, if spots don't run out first! (I am strictly limiting enrollment, and there are just a few spots left now.)

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/indy to learn more about the program, watch a video overview, and to sign up!

If you're listing after Sunday, July 14, 2019, and you want to learn how to get your child to be independent and responsible, I recommend that you join the private coaching community I run for parents.
Go to weturnedoutokay.com/workwithme to learn more!

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What are the factors that matter – like, REALLY matter, over the long haul – versus those that don't, in your child's education?

(Quick heads-up: starting this coming Monday, July 15 I'm offering a program to help you do less for your child, and feel good about it! It's called "21 Days to Independence for your child… and for you."
In these 3 weeks we will cover: how to not be your child's personal entertainer; how to stop hovering, for your benefit AND theirs; how to help them resolve conflicts, and more! The program takes place right in your inbox, so it's super convenient as well as helpful.
Because I'm working closely with each participant, space is limited, and spots are filling up! Click weturnedoutokay.com/indy to learn more and register.)

I'm sure you'll agree that getting a kid's education right is critical.

It's not just critical while they're small. Screwing up a kid's education can impact their whole lives.

And yet, it happens every day, when even well-intentioned and goodhearted people focus on the wrong stuff.

Because you listen to this show, I know that you are well-intentioned and goodhearted. So I'm helping you focus on the right stuff today.

Find out what really matters in your child's education in this episode of We Turned Out Okay!

Plus in Parenting News: In this recent Education Weekly article, the idea of "growth mindset versus fixed mindset" is re-examined… We investigate in this week's Parenting News segment.

Join us!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/286 for:

• A cheat sheet on what's crucial to include in your child's education
• What does not matter.. what you can (and should) leave out of your young child's education
• Links to free guides on potty training, handling every temper tantrum, and more

And thank you so much for listening!

The show is sponsored this week by Julian Coffee, a unique and amazing coffee that comes from a family farm in Puerto Rico and that will help you start your day off right! Listen to today’s episode for the code that will get you 10% off when you go to juliancoffeepr.com or Julian Coffee’s page in Amazon.

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Hey my friend! Next week I'm teaching a FREE workshop on independence, for your child and you, in the We Turned Out Okay Facebook group: click this link to take part or scroll down right here in your podcatcher to find out more!

When I first saw How to Raise a Boy,

the book today's guest, Michael Reichert, PhD, wrote, I knew I was in for a treat. Dr. Reichert 's writing is a skillful blend of personal stories and relevant, amazing research, and before I knew it I was highlighting, marking pages with Post-it notes, and pumped to speak with Dr. Reichert!

And, our conversation does not disappoint.
If you've got questions about:
- Your son turning into a "mama's boy"
- How to (in the words of one of our WTOO Facebook group members) "empower boys to be their best selves without being jerks"
- Or even if you have questions about why – if you're raising girls and not boys – you should care;
You'll find this conversation relevant and compelling.

I'm so thankful to Dr. Reichert for coming on the show today, and I hope you enjoy our conversation, and learn from it, as much as I did.

Plus in Parenting News: I've just learned of an amazing new resource for parents, the Revive Show, a live Internet radio show, and you need to hear about it too. I learned of it when I was invited on as a guest, and I think you will love the show!

Join us!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/285 for:

• A cheat sheet on highlights from this wonderful conversation
• Key links we talk about in this episode
• The video of the week: OFF this week for the July 4 holiday, returning July 11, so hang in there : )

And thank you so much for listening!

I am teaching a FREE, weeklong workshop on how to get your child to be more independent so they don't have to rely on you! We will address: how to stop being a helicopter parent, how to get kids to amuse themselves, independence with potty training and hygiene, food issues, and more, so join us if you need help with any of this!

This free workshop takes place all next week, July 8-12, in the We Turned Out Okay Facebook group… Click here to join the group!

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Heads up on 2 counts:
First, I'm teaching a FREE Online Parenting Class I'm teaching this Thursday, "How to Help Your Kids Get Along with Other Kids!" Scroll down to read more and sign up!

Second, soon I am teaching a FREE, week long workshop on how to get your child to be more independent so they don't have to rely on you!
I'm teaching this workshop in the We Turned Out Okay Facebook group. Click here to join the group!

My jaw was on the floor recently during a parent coaching call with one of our Ninja Parenting Community members, when she revealed that her child's teacher told her "there is no way to teach social skills."
Immediately I knew I wanted your thoughts on this… and if this is also your belief, I'd like to use today's podcast episode to change your mind.

Because of course we can teach social skills!
In today's episode I offer three ways to do so.

Please learn them, heed them, take them into your heart.

Because without these crucial skills – without humans passing them on to our offspring – our society breaks down.

And also life is a lot less fun!

Plus in Parenting News: I'm sharing about a new favorite podcast of mine, An Arm and A Leg, a podcast about the insanity of healthcare in the United States. It's a great show because it tells amazing stories, and finds a lot to be optimistic about, in a part of American society that I was feeling increasingly frustrated with… turns out I am not the only one.

Join us!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/284 for:

• A cheat sheet on the 3 ways you can teach social skills to your young child
• Key links we talk about in this episode
• The video of the week: "Can I teach my child social skills? And if so how?"

And thank you so much for listening!

How to Help Kids Get Along with Other Kids: FREE Online Parenting Class! Does your child struggle to get along with siblings, classmates, cousins, or at the playground?
Do your kids push, hit, or even bite to get their way?
Let me help… Sign up for the Free Online Parenting Class I am teaching Thursday, June 27!

You'll learn:

• What's most important when thinking about kids dealing with siblings or other kids
• The 3 keys to good child and sibling relations
• How to overcome one crucial factor that impedes a child's ability to get along with other kids
• Which principles to adopt – and which to drop – in helping kids get along

Sign up to watch it live at 2 PM on Thursday, June 27 OR sign up to catch the replay at your convenience.
Start summer off right by learning how to help your kids get along with other kids. Sign up at the link below!
weturnedoutokay.com/siblings

The show is sponsored this week by Julian Coffee, a unique and amazing coffee that comes from a family farm in Puerto Rico and that will help you start your day off right! Listen to today's episode for the code that will get you 10% off when you go to juliancoffeepr.com or Julian Coffee's page in Amazon.

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Here's something that you may not have thought of: developmental stages aren't just for kids.
Each of us grown-ups is still working on stuff developmentally.

Today we talk about the adult stages of development – a concept that really matters!

It matters in relation to our young children.
But most of all it matters to us, inside ourselves.

Plus in Parenting News: Friend-of-the-podcast Devorah Heitner, who always makes me feel better about life in our digital age, recently wrote a beautiful essay for the Washington Post. It's about how, had her mom been alive today, the learning disabilities she lived with may not have been a problem.

Join us!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/283 for:

• A cheat sheet on the later (i.e., adult) stages of human development
• Key links we talk about in this episode
• The video of the week: "What really matters in a grown up's development?"

And thank you so much for listening!

How to Help Kids Get Along with Other Kids: FREE Online Parenting Class! Does your child struggle to get along with siblings, classmates, cousins, or at the playground?
Do your kids push, hit, or even bite to get their way?
Let me help… Sign up for the Free Online Parenting Class I am teaching Thursday, June 27!

You'll learn:

• What's most important when thinking about kids dealing with siblings or other kids
• The 3 keys to good child and sibling relations
• How to overcome one crucial factor that impedes a child's ability to get along with other kids
• Which principles to adopt – and which to drop – in helping kids get along

Sign up to watch it live at 2 PM on Thursday, June 27 OR sign up to catch the replay at your convenience.
Start summer off right by learning how to help your kids get along with other kids. Sign up at the link below!
weturnedoutokay.com/siblings

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Heads up: keep listening after the interview, because I read out Emily Orton's responses to questions that were asked in the We Turned Out Okay Facebook group. Her responses are awesome and I don't want you to miss them!

Sometimes we have down moments in our lives. Times where we second-guess ourselves and our choices; times where we're not sure what direction to go.
That was the case for Erik Orton, at a low point in his life when a project he put all his time and energy – and his family's financial savings – into, failed.

But something incredibly beautiful was born of that time. He and his wife Emily decided to change things up completely and go on an adventure!

Their memoir, Seven at Sea, describes the year they spent in a sailboat, traveling the world with their 5 children, the youngest of whom has Down syndrome.

If you're stuck, if you're feeling bogged down or not sure which way to turn, I hope this conversation helps you find a way.

Plus in Parenting News: A compelling New York Times article by Professor Emily Oster, author of the forthcoming book Cribsheet, about how parents aren't necessarily paying attention to the child-rearing stuff that matters most.

Join us!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/282 for:

• A cheat sheet on the highlights of our conversation, which goes far, far beyond their year on the beloved sailboat Fezywig
• Links that come up in today's conversation
• The video of the week: "How to get out of a parenting rut"

And thank you so much for listening!

Temper Tantrums, Potty Training, and Picky Eaters: Today I share about three helpful free guides I offer.
While the podcast is long-form – your opportunity to look into the mind of a child development expert – the free guides are super quick.

You can watch the video, read the checklist, and immediately get the help you need : )

• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to Handle Every Temper Tantrum
• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to Successfully Potty Train Your Child
• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to Handle Your Picky Eater
• Want to receive valuable ideas and tips on parenting, without either free guide above? Click here for my weekly parenting newsletter!

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I know you're wondering: what is this untapped force? It's… Wait for it…

BOREDOM.

Several factors have combined to illustrate for me the amazing power of being bored.

I share about these factors in this episode, and I also share about how they are helping me understand that us humans need boredom in our lives. We need to "get comfortable with being uncomfortable," as next week's guests on our show will share. (To find out who they are, you'll have to tune in next week. All I can say here is that I am so excited to bring you such a wonderful and life-affirming conversation : )

Today, I'm sharing 3 practical ways you can foster boredom, bring it into your family's life, without going insane!

Plus in Parenting News:

Join us!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/281 for:

• A cheat sheet on the 3 practical ways to bring boredom into your family's life, without going bananas
• The video of the week: "What to do when you hear the words "I'm bored""

And thank you so much for listening!

Temper Tantrums, Potty Training, and Picky Eaters: Today I share about three helpful free guides I offer.
While the podcast is long-form – your opportunity to look into the mind of a child development expert – the free guides are super quick.

You can watch the video, read the checklist, and immediately get the help you need : )

• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to Handle Every Temper Tantrum
• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to Successfully Potty Train Your Child
• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to Handle Your Picky Eater
• Want to receive valuable ideas and tips on parenting, without either free guide above? Click here for my weekly parenting newsletter!

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Welcome to another installment of Educating Little Kids! (When it's a book, it will have a better title, promise.)
We dive into development today, and if you're wondering "why should I care about child development," I hope this episode makes that clear.

Really and truly, it's a good thing to know.

Today we dive into the stages of development – stages all of us humans are going through – to give you a sense of where your child is developmentally.

Plus in Parenting News: How our own biases can stop us from seeing what is actually right in front of us.

Join us!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/280 for:

• A cheat sheet on the first 3 stages of human development
• The video of the week: "Why should I care about child development?"

And thank you so much for listening!

Live Q&A and Open House Tour Ever wished you could check out the private coaching community that I run for parents of young children?
Do you have questions about if it could work for you, even in your busy, insane life and with whatever technical skills you possess (especially if you feel like they're not very good)?
You're in luck! On THIS coming Thursday, May 30, I am throwing open the doors to the Ninja Parenting Community!
I'm taking you right inside, and showing you:
– What our members love about it
– How the community helps parents turn family time into "the best time of the day"
– And I'm taking questions too!

It's free… I'm so excited to bring you in and show you around!
It's live… But even if you can't be there live at 2PM EST, signing up gets you the replay so you can rewatch as many times as you like.
It's where my heart and soul is… because I get to work closely with so many amazing parents.

Don't miss out on discovering this secret to happy parenting…
Click weturnedoutokay.com/tour to sign up!

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Today's guest, Jacky Lamenzo, ate "only off the kids menu" well into her adulthood.

Then, she had the opportunity to go to China for a year, and knew something was going to have to change.

Could she make the change? You bet.

In our conversation Jacky shares what she did to stop being a picky eater, and also about her delightful children's book that helps parents and kids with picky eating now.

And here's the cool thing: before we even get to the picky eating, we talk about so much other interesting stuff, everything from what Jacky did when she felt that her work wasn't being valued, to bonding over studying in Florence, Italy!

Also! Click here to sign up for the "5 Ways to Handle Your Picky Eater" Free Guide, which I tell you all about during today's break!

Plus in Parenting News: Is STEM bad for our democracy? I ask for your help in coming up with a new acronym, one that goes beyond both STEM and STEAM.

Join us!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/279 for:

• Cheat sheet on the 3 ways moving to China helped solve Jacky's picky eater problem (and how that can help in your family life)
• Links that come up in today's conversation
• The video of the week: "3 ways to stop picky eating"

And thank you so much for listening!

Live Q&A and Open House Tour Ever wished you could check out the private coaching community that I run for parents of young children?
Do you have questions about if it could work for you, even in your busy, insane life and with whatever technical skills you possess (especially if you feel like they're not very good)?
You're in luck! On Thursday, May 30, I am throwing open the doors to the Ninja Parenting Community!
I'm taking you right inside, and showing you:
– What our members love about it
– How the community helps parents turn family time into "the best time of the day"
– And I'm taking questions too!

It's free… I'm so excited to bring you in and show you around!
It's live… But even if you can't be there live at 2PM EST, signing up gets you the replay so you can rewatch as many times as you like.
It's where my heart and soul is… because I get to work closely with so many amazing parents.

Don't miss out on discovering this secret to happy parenting…
Click weturnedoutokay.com/tour to sign up!

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"She will not eat with us at the dinner table. No matter what we have for dinner she won't eat it. She just says "yucky" and won't eat anything. Help!!!"
So writes Megan, mom of a two-year-old girl who is a seriously picky eater.

I bet, if you've got kids, you know Megan's struggle. I certainly do!

There is help. Today I share 4 things to consider when you've got a child who refuses to eat.

Also! Click here to sign up for the "5 Ways to Handle Your Picky Eater" Free Guide, which I tell you all about during today's break!

Plus in Parenting News: We talk about the new and lovely NYTParenting website and newsletter, which I love and I bet you will too.

Join us!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/278 for:

• A cheat sheet on the 4 factors to consider when getting your picky eater to willingly eat
• The video of the week: "My child literally won't eat anything"

And thank you so much for listening!

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Do you tend to think along the lines of "I don't need to worry about teaching… that will be taken care of when my child starts school"?

I want to push back on that idea today. Because the opposite side of this coin is "I am not a teacher and what I do here at home does not matter."

What we do at home really and truly matters.

And today, we're talking about 3 ways you can take advantage of this.

In this week's Parent News segment: We consider the Parent Police… anyone who disparages our personal and family choices.

Join us!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/277 for:

• A cheat sheet on the 3 ways to utilize this idea, "learning begins in the home"
• The link to our We Turned Out Okay Facebook group, where I do a Facebook live each Monday morning and this week I'm sharing a useful way to view, or think about, our children
• The video of the week: "What's most important for my young child to learn"

And thank you so much for listening!

Temper Tantrums and Potty Training: Today I share about two helpful free guides I offer.
While the podcast is long-form – your opportunity to look into the mind of a child development expert – the free guides are super quick.

You can watch the video, read the checklist, and immediately handle the temper tantrums or get started with potty training (depending on which guide you choose : )

• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to handle every temper tantrum
• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to successfully potty train your child
• Want to receive valuable ideas and tips on parenting, without either free guide above? Click here for my weekly parenting newsletter!

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Clarity; balance; peace… Sometimes it can be hard to feel that we have any of these in our frantic homes and lives.

Today's guest, Meagan Wilson, specializes in helping families reconnect with those positive feelings, and best of all helps us bring those positive feelings to our children.

In our conversation we talk about:
– The best kind of learning for little kids
– How to get more of that into our kiddos' lives
– The importance of wonderful things like daily rhythms and self-directed play into our family lives

I hope you, like me, come away with the feeling of hope.
That is what today's guest brings to our conversation.

In the Parenting News segment of the show:
Anna Seewald of the Authentic Parenting podcast is hosting a live, one day conference in New Jersey on May 18, and Dr. Laura Markham is the keynote speaker! Anna is kindly offering a $50 discount per ticket to listeners of We Turned Out Okay, so keep an ear out for that!

Hope you enjoy this episode!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/276 for:

• A cheat sheet of the big ideas that come up in today's conversation
• Links to interesting stuff from our chat
• The video of the week: Off this week, returning Thursday, May 9th

And thank you so much for listening!

Temper Tantrums and Potty Training: Today I share about two helpful free guides I offer.
While the podcast is long-form – your opportunity to look into the mind of a child development expert – the free guides are super quick.

You can watch the video, read the checklist, and immediately handle the temper tantrums or get started with potty training (depending on which guide you choose : )

• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to handle every temper tantrum
• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to successfully potty train your child
• Want to receive valuable ideas and tips on parenting, without either free guide above? Click here for my weekly parenting newsletter!

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One of the most concerning things for us parents is that our kids will not have any friends.
Maybe because we all remember that feeling of being lonely, or singled out.

We can feel kind of helpless at the same time. You may be feeling like either the process is so intuitive that you can't teach it, or you may even be thinking "I don't have that many friends, who am I to be trying to teach my child how to make friends?"

In this episode I deconstruct this process.
I offer 4 ways to help your child make friends.

ALSO in Parenting News: a member of the We Turned Out Okay Facebook group makes the New York Times! For something really special!

Take a listen!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/275 for:

• A cheat sheet of the 4 ways to help your child make friends
• Links to a whole bunch of good stuff including to some of the best conversations we've ever had on WTOO
• The video of the week: "4 Ways to help your young child make friends"

And thank you so much for listening!

Temper Tantrums and Potty Training: Today I share about two helpful free guides I offer.
While the podcast is long-form – your opportunity to look into the mind of a child development expert – the free guides are super quick.

You can watch the video, read the checklist, and immediately handle the temper tantrums or get started with potty training (depending on which guide you choose : )

• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to handle every temper tantrum
• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to successfully potty train your child
• Want to receive valuable ideas and tips on parenting, without either free guide above? Click here for my weekly parenting newsletter!

Live Q&A and Open House Tour Ever wished you could check out the private coaching community that I run for parents of young children?
Do you have questions about if it could work for you, even in your busy, insane life and with whatever technical skills you possess (especially if you feel like they're not very good)?
You're in luck! On THIS coming Thursday, April 25 at 1 PM EST, I am throwing open the doors to the Ninja Parenting Community!
I'm taking you right inside, and showing you:
– What our members love about it
– How the community helps parents turn family time into "the best time of the day"
– And I'm taking questions too!

It's free… I'm so excited to bring you in and show you around!
It's live… But even if you can't be there live, signing up gets you the replay so you can rewatch as many times as you like.
It's where my heart and soul is… because I get to work closely with so many amazing parents.

Don't miss out on discovering this secret to happy parenting…
Click weturnedoutokay.com/tour to sign up!

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As life partners, we all have some disagreements.
But what if you feel like your disagreements are interfering in family life?
That's what this episode is all about, so if you're worrying about any of this you're in the right place!
I've got 3 ways to get your spouse on the same page as you are.

Plus: in Parenting News, we consider coding as one of the academic 3Rs.
Join us!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/274 for:

• A cheat sheet of the 3 ways discussed today
• Links to a whole bunch of good stuff, including the key links talked about today and free potty training and temper tantrum free guides
• The video of the week: "My spouse isn't on board with how I'm raising our kids"

And thank you so much for listening!

Live Q&A and Open House Tour Ever wished you could check out the private coaching community that I run for parents of young children?
Do you have questions about if it could work for you, even in your busy, insane life and with whatever technical skills you possess (especially if you feel like they're not very good)?
You're in luck! On Thursday, April 25 at 1 PM EST I am throwing open the doors to the Ninja Parenting Community!
I'm taking you right inside, and showing you:
– What our members love about it
– How the community helps parents turn family time into "the best time of the day"
– And I'm taking questions too!

It's free… I'm so excited to bring you in and show you around!
It's live… But even if you can't be there live, signing up gets you the replay so you can rewatch as many times as you like.
It's where my heart and soul is… because I get to work closely with so many amazing parents.

Don't miss out on discovering this secret to happy parenting…
Click weturnedoutokay.com/tour to sign up!

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A conversation with Audrey Monke is always welcome, even more so when she's written a book that can fix so many of the worries we confront on a daily basis. Which this one totally is!
If you're worried about:
– How to keep your kids close while giving them their independence
– If they'll ever make friends, and what might happen to them if they don't
– How in heck they will develop the skills necessary to make it in this world
You are going to LOVE our conversation!

Also: included in this episode is the first installment of Parenting News, a segment highlighting one news item that seems worthy of your attention.
Today's is all about young boys and Fortnite, and if you should be concerned about video-game addiction.
Got some news that you want me to bring up in a future Parenting News? Click here and let me know!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/273 for:

• A cheat sheet of ideas from our conversation
• Links, including a special one to Audrey's book, Happy Campers
• The video of the week: "How to help your child make a friend"

And thank you so much for listening!

Live Q&A and Open House Tour Ever wished you could check out the private coaching community that I run for parents of young children?
Do you have questions about if it could work for you, even in your busy, insane life and with whatever technical skills you possess (especially if you feel like they're not very good)?
You're in luck! On Thursday, April 25 I am throwing open the doors to the Ninja Parenting Community!
I'm taking you right inside, and showing you:
– What our members love about it
– How the community helps parents turn family time into "the best time of the day"
– And I'm taking questions too!

It's free… I'm so excited to bring you in and show you around!
It's live… But even if you can't be there live, signing up gets you the replay so you can rewatch as many times as you like.
It's where my heart and soul is… because I get to work closely with so many amazing parents.

Don't miss out on discovering this secret to happy parenting…
Click weturnedoutokay.com/tour to sign up!

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If you've ever struggled with less-than-quality childcare, whether in daycare or in a school setting, today's episode is for you!

Because you are not alone. I've been working closely with people whose childcare providers do inscrutable things – one mom tells of an "aggression journal" her 3-year-old son's childcare teachers are keeping about him! – and another who found her most recent parent-teacher conference frightening and overwhelming.

Which is why today I'm bringing you, in audio format, the class I taught just last week, all about "How to get quality childcare."

During this master class I share:
1) The three most important keys to finding the best childcare
2) One crucial factor that can hold you back from getting quality childcare
3) The questions you should - and should not - ask potential and current childcare providers
4) An Open House Tour of the private coaching community where quality childcare has been our in-depth focus for the last 3 months
5) A Case Study of one class attendee, Amanda, and her 3-year-old son's struggles with nap time at daycare

I hope it's super helpful as your child moves out into the wider world, in daycare, preschool, or school!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/272 for:

• A cheat sheet of ideas from this masterclass
• Links, including to the private coaching community I run (current members: click here for the audio, video, and expanded notes for this masterclass)
• The video of the week: "3 crucial factors for quality childcare"

And thank you so much for listening!

Temper Tantrums and Potty Training: Today I share about two helpful free guides I offer.
While the podcast is long-form – your opportunity to look into the mind of a child development expert – the free guides are super quick.

You can watch the video, read the checklist, and immediately handle the temper tantrums or get started with potty training (depending on which guide you choose : )

• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to handle every temper tantrum
• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to successfully potty train your child
• Want to receive valuable ideas and tips on parenting, without either free guide above? Click here for my weekly parenting newsletter!

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What's your go-to approach for getting work done?

Do you view something difficult as an exciting challenge, or a way to prove to yourself and others – once again – how crummy you are at difficult stuff?

Today, we look at how our own mindset impacts our children's eventual success.

Take a listen!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/271 for:

• A cheat sheet on getting your best mindset for your child's success
• Key links from today's episode
• The video of the week: "What is a good mindset for learning? How to get my child the best educational mindset"

And thank you so much for listening!

How to Get Quality Childcare: Free Online Class! Learn:
– The keys to finding the best child care for your young child
– To avoid one crucial factor that can derail your efforts to find good childcare
– Which questions to ask – and which not too – to assure your child thrives in others' care

We cover this and more in the FREE online class I'm teaching on Thursday, March 28!
Sign up today – even if you can't be there live, the replay will be available for several days after.

Get the best child care for your kiddos by taking this class, for free! Sign up here and I will see you on March 28: )

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You may have heard that creativity is important to our children's developing minds.
But have you ever thought about how important creativity is for yourself?

Today's guest, Dan Blank, not only helps us understand how important it is… He helps us figure out ways to incorporate creativity into our busy parenting lives.

I hope you enjoy today's conversation, whether you heard it when it was originally broadcast about 18 months ago, or if this is your first listen. Cheers!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/270 for:

• Favorite ideas from our conversation
• Dan's answer to a question that didn't make it into the interview
• The video of the week: Off this week, returning Thursday, March 28

And thank you so much for listening!

How to Get Quality Childcare: Free Online Class! Learn:
– The keys to finding the best child care for your young child
– To avoid one crucial factor that can derail your efforts to find good childcare
– Which questions to ask – and which not too – to assure your child thrives in others' care

We cover this and more in the FREE online class I'm teaching on Thursday, March 28!
Sign up today – even if you can't be there live, the replay will be available for several days after.

Get the best child care for your kiddos by taking this class, for free! Sign up here and I will see you on March 28: )

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Last summer, the two-year-old son of a Ninja Parenting Community member was in a car accident. Thankfully no one was injured. But the car was totaled.

And this little boy kept asking the same question, over and over:
"Why did Daddy crash Daddy's car?" The accident was not Daddy's fault. But you couldn't convince the boy of that!

Everyone just wanted to move on.

But this little boy struggled to do that.

Maybe your child hasn't recently been in a car accident, and so this isn't the question that keeps getting asked.

But I bet, if you've got a toddler or preschooler, or even an elementary school kid, you know this phenomenon very well.

Today: what to do about it, when your child asks the same question again and again!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/269 for:

• A cheat sheet on how to handle it when your child keeps asking the same question over and over, and it's driving you nuts
• Key links from today's episode
• The video of the week: Off this week, returning March 28

And thank you so much for listening!

How to Get Quality Childcare: Free Online Class! Learn:
– The keys to finding the best child care for your young child
– To avoid one crucial factor that can derail your efforts to find good childcare
– Which questions to ask – and which not too – to assure your child thrives in others' care

We cover this and more in the FREE online class I'm teaching on Thursday, March 28!
Sign up today – even if you can't be there live, the replay will be available for several days after.

Get the best child care for your kiddos by taking this class, for free! Sign up here and I will see you on March 28: )

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If you've been listening to our Successful, Fulfilled Kids series (of which this is part 7), I know you're implementing some great tactics, like making sure your child does chores, and doing something besides "parenting."
But today's episode gets into a concept that is really key.
It's a mindset shift that parents need to make, if only to show our kids what is possible.

Yup: we've finally come to the topic of Grit.

Listen in to find out why it's important and how you can make sure your children have it!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/268 for:

• A cheat sheet on Grit
• Key links from today's episode
• The video of the week: Off this week! Returning March 28

And thank you so much for listening!

How to Get Quality Childcare: Free Online Class! Learn:
– The keys to finding the best child care for your young child
– To avoid one crucial factor that can derail your efforts to find good childcare
– Which questions to ask – and which not too – to assure your child thrives in others' care

We cover this and more in the FREE online class I'm teaching on Thursday, March 28!
Sign up today – even if you can't be there live, the replay will be available for several days after.

Get the best child care for your kiddos by taking this class, for free! Sign up here and I will see you on March 28: )

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Wondering what to do when:
– Your child fills the pull up or leaks through, every single night, despite being potty trained during the day?
– You are stuck – at least for a little while – with subpar childcare?
– Your child is being picked on due to intolerance?

We answer these questions and more, in today's episode!
I'm so excited to bring you another round of Ask the Experts with Tricia Tomaso!

[FYI: in the break I mention having One Question for you… Click here to hear the bonus episode about the question, and click here to answer the question!]

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/267 for:

• A cheat sheet on the questions and answers we share in this episode
• Key links from today's episode
• The video of the week: "How to help your child if they're being picked on or bullied"

And thank you so much for listening!

Temper Tantrums and Potty Training: During today's break I share about two helpful free guides I offer.
While the podcast is long-form – your opportunity to look into the mind of a child development expert – the free guides are super quick.

You can watch the video, read the checklist, and immediately handle the temper tantrums or get started with potty training (depending on which guide you choose : )

• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to handle every temper tantrum
• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to successfully potty train your child
• Want to receive valuable ideas and tips on parenting, without either free guide above? Click here for my weekly parenting newsletter!

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What's your biggest parenting challenge?
I really want to help you with it! (For context, listen to this recent quickie bonus episode : )
Click weturnedoutokay.com/contact to go to my contact page and share what's toughest for you as a parent. Thank you sooooo much!

How do you react when your child makes a mistake, does something wrong, mouths off?

If you respond to bad behavior with lesson-teaching/consequences mode engaged – in other words, if you have "zero tolerance" for your child's transgressions – you're doing your child a disservice.

Even worse, you're doing your relationship with your young child a disservice.

That's what this episode posits, anyway. Take a listen and see if you agree!

PS The title and subject of today's episode came from conversations with my therapist.

"We can't have zero tolerance when we're talking about kids," he often says; "zero tolerance is for submarines."

If these two concepts seem completely unrelated to you, and your daily life with your young child, I encourage you to listen in to today's episode! All will become clear : )

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/266 for:

• A cheat sheet on the 4 ways kids are not like submarines – and what works better than "zero tolerance" when they do something wrong
• To share your biggest parenting challenge, and/or sign up for one of our free guides
• The video of the week: "How to handle your child's bad behavior"

And thank you so much for listening!

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I am struggling with something, and it would mean so much to me to hear from you about it…
I hope you'll answer me just one question, which I ask in this episode.

You can answer my question in 2 ways:

Click weturnedoutokay.com/contact and respond right on my contact page; or

Email me directly– I share my email address in this episode

Thank you SO much!

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What difference, you might be wondering, can it possibly make to my kids if I have good relationships with other grown-ups?

Actually, it matters quite a bit.

In this installment of the Raising Successful Kids series we talk about the impact of our relationships, including with our spouses and life-partners, on the eventual fulfillment and happiness of our children.

Join us!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/265 for:

• A cheat sheet on the ideas in this episode
• Key links from our conversation, including the resources I share, to help you understand this idea and move forward with it
• The video of the week: "How does my relationship affect my kids?"

And thank you so much for listening!

Temper Tantrums and Potty Training: During today's break I share about two helpful free guides I offer.
While the podcast is long-form – your opportunity to look into the mind of a child development expert – the free guides are super quick.

You can watch the video, read the checklist, and immediately handle the temper tantrums or get started with potty training (depending on which guide you choose : )

• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to handle every temper tantrum
• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to successfully potty train your child
• Want to receive valuable ideas and tips on parenting, without either free guide above? Click here for my weekly parenting newsletter!

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I know it's difficult to imagine your child as a teen or young adult.

But it will happen, and sooner than you think. If you just can't imagine it – if it even makes you a little frightened to think of – today's guest will inspire hope and excitement in you (he did for me : )

Today I'm excited to share a conversation with a guy who works with teenagers to help them achieve their goals, Blake Boles of the Off Trail Learning Podcast, UnschoolAdventures.com, and author of three excellent books for helping teens figure out what they really want out of life.

Hope you enjoy this glimpse into the future! Go to weturnedoutokay.com/264 for:

• Links to Blake's book, podcast, and website (where you can sign up for his newsletter, Update from the Blake-O-Sphere, and which makes me do a little happy dance each time I see it in my inbox)
• The video of the week: "From Toddler to Teen: What to Expect"

And thank you so much for listening!

Temper Tantrums and Potty Training: During today's break I share about two helpful free guides I offer.
While the podcast is long-form – your opportunity to look into the mind of a child development expert – the free guides are super quick.

You can watch the video, read the checklist, and immediately handle the temper tantrums or get started with potty training (depending on which guide you choose : )

• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to handle every temper tantrum
• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to successfully potty train your child
• Want to receive valuable ideas and tips on parenting, without either free guide above? Click here for my weekly parenting newsletter!

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Welcome to another episode on how to make it so our kids grow up into successful, fulfilled, happy adults!
In today's installment, we consider whether it's important that we parents work outside the home.
And we end up considering an even bigger, more mind-blowing question: how do we even define success and fulfillment?

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/262 for:

• A cheat sheet on the 3 practicalities of raising successful kids
• Key links that come up in this episode, including to a show that Ben and I are really loving (and which is relevant to today's episode)
• The video of the week: "How can I raise an independent, successful child?"

Quick program note, I mention in the episode that, if I can during the break, I'll share more about the Harvard business school and professor Kathleen McGinn. I was not able to do that this week. However in the show notes I link to both both the business school and the professor, so feel free to read up further if you'd like!

And thank you so much for listening!

Temper Tantrums and Potty Training: During today's break I share about two helpful free guides I offer.
While the podcast is long-form – your opportunity to look into the mind of a child development expert – the free guides are super quick.

You can watch the video, read the checklist, and immediately handle the temper tantrums or get started with potty training (depending on which guide you choose : )

• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to handle every temper tantrum
• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to successfully potty train your child
• Want to receive valuable ideas and tips on parenting, without either free guide above? Click here for my weekly parenting newsletter!

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How can I stop my child from being so impulsive?
How can I stop her from hurting others with her bad behavior?
How can I stop him from alienating people because he's hitting, or spitting, or worse?

Sometimes it is scary how much anger and frustration our little kids have inside. And when it erupts, we can feel so powerless.

This week's We Turned Out Okay podcast episode guest, Maureen Healy, has written a book called The Emotionally Healthy Child, to help us deal with these aspects of our young children.

When I invited Maureen on the show, I knew she had written a wonderful book for us. A useful tool, helping us parents figure out how to get our kids' behavior to be more what we want to see.

But I was not prepared for the kind of depth that Maureen Healy brings to the conversation. This gentle, thoughtful woman can teach us all about what it means to be human, and how to truly connect with our loved ones, especially our children.

Hope you enjoy this conversation!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/261 for:

• A cheat sheet of favorite ideas from our conversation
• Key links from our conversation, including to Maureen's wonderful book, The Emotionally Healthy Child
• The scoop on my latest book! One reviewer says of 10 Secrets Happy Parents Know: I love how much "Karen" is in these pages… I can foresee myself using these chapter titles as self-talk mantras to remind myself to get out of discipline mode ASAP; that conflicts are opportunities; and so on."
• The video of the week: "Stop my young child being impulsive"

And thank you so much for listening!

Temper Tantrums and Potty Training: During today's break I share about two helpful free guides I offer.
While the podcast is long-form – your opportunity to look into the mind of a child development expert – the free guides are super quick.

You can watch the video, read the checklist, and immediately handle the temper tantrums or get started with potty training (depending on which guide you choose : )

• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to handle every temper tantrum
• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to successfully potty train your child
• Want to receive valuable ideas and tips on parenting, without either free guide above? Click here for my weekly parenting newsletter!

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So, I never actually use the word toxic in the whole episode… instead of that, I talk about balloon-poppers. A much more fun name, I'm sure you'll agree!
In this episode I share four ways that you can protect yourself against toxic people, a.k.a. balloon-poppers.

Which is really important, not just for your health, but for your child's as well.

In this early part of the year, where we have more of a chance to think on introspective things, I hope this episode helps you feel happier inside! Bonus that in the long run it will help your kids find success, fulfillment, and happiness too!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/260 for:

• A cheat sheet on 4 ways to protect against toxic people
• The scoop on my latest book! One reviewer says "10 Secrets Happy Parents Know is a practical and easy-to-digest guide that sets the groundwork for the kind of family life you want."
• The video of the week: "How to avoid toxic people"

And thank you so much for listening!

Temper Tantrums and Potty Training: During today's break I share about two helpful free guides I offer.
While the podcast is long-form – your opportunity to look into the mind of a child development expert – the free guides are super quick.

You can watch the video, read the checklist, and immediately handle the temper tantrums or get started with potty training (depending on which guide you choose : )

• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to handle every temper tantrum
• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to successfully potty train your child

View Details

This episode starts off as a review of my 2018 goals, and how I did with them.
But then it takes a dramatic turn: I actually had to record the second half of the show more than once. Why? Because when I recorded the first time, I didn't have clarity.

So I renamed the episode, and re-recorded the second half, and now I hope it is much more helpful than the first version would've been!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/259 for:

• A breakdown of the goals I had for 2018, and how I did with them
• A look ahead at 2019, and why being clear on what you want is important – not just for you, but for your kiddos as well
• The scoop on my latest book, just out! One reviewer says "If you're ready for communication and mutual respect to replace chaos and misbehavior, do yourself a favor and read 10 Secrets Happy Parents Know."
• The video of the week: "Make 2019 a great year... with just one word"

And thank you so much for listening!

Temper Tantrums and Potty Training: During today's break I share about two helpful free guides I offer.
While the podcast is long-form – your opportunity to look into the mind of a child development expert – the free guides are super quick.

You can watch the video, read the checklist, and immediately handle the temper tantrums or get started with potty training (depending on which guide you choose : )

• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to handle every temper tantrum
• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to successfully potty train your child

View Details

Happy new year!!
As you climb out from underneath tinsel, and excess, and cranky kiddos, I wanted to share some success stories.
I hope to inspire you, right at the beginning of the year, by giving you some stories where things, well, turned out okay, to use the pun that I always swore I would never use (and have indeed not used until this very moment : )
So, today's is a re-broadcasted conversation, originally recorded way back in 2016, in which I spoke to dad and educator Erik Wagter. Erik's story is special: he and his wife are raising an autistic son, and early on they were told he would never lead anything like a normal life.
And they are helping him, every day, to lead a wonderful, if not completely normal, life. Besides, whose life is "normal"?
"Normal is just a setting on the washing machine" – one of my favorite quotes ever.

Also, I'm sharing two stories of success from our exclusive private coaching community, the Ninja Parenting Community.
Stories of parents just like you, and how they handled it when the going got tough.
I hope you find today's success stories episode inspiring and helpful!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/258 for:

• Links to many resources I offer, including my parenting books and the Ninja Parenting Community, the online place where I help parents through their toughest challenges, so they can really enjoy family time
• The video of the week: Off this week! Returning 1/10/19.

And thank you so much for listening!

Temper Tantrums and Potty Training: During today's break I share about two helpful free guides I offer.
While the podcast is long-form – your opportunity to look into the mind of a child development expert – the free guides are super quick.

You can watch the video, read the checklist, and immediately handle the temper tantrums or get started with potty training (depending on which guide you choose : )

• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to handle every temper tantrum
• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to successfully potty train your child

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Let's just say it: at this time of year, we don't always get the best behavior from our kids.
They're overstimulated. They're out of routine. In many end-of-year traditions they are being showered with gifts.

This can make them forget that life is about so much more than receiving presents from everybody who walks through the door (or whose door they walk through.)

So, today I wanted to help you deal with the gimmes!

Listen for three ways to gently help your child step away from the gifts.

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/257 for:

• My cheat sheet on dealing with the gimmes
• A free PDF that you can download called "Three principles of kids and gifts"
• The scoop on my latest book, just out! One reviewer says "If you're ready for communication and mutual respect to replace chaos and misbehavior, do yourself a favor and read 10 Secrets Happy Parents Know."
• The video of the week: "Teaching a child that it's better to give than to receive"

And thank you so much for listening!

Temper Tantrums and Potty Training: During today's break I share about two helpful free guides I offer.
While the podcast is long-form – your opportunity to look into the mind of a child development expert – the free guides are super quick.

You can watch the video, read the checklist, and immediately handle the temper tantrums or get started with potty training (depending on which guide you choose : )

• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to handle every temper tantrum
• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to successfully potty train your child

View Details

When a coaching client of mine recently posted an article by today's guest in our Ninja Parenting Community forums, I was introduced to one of the great positive parenting forces of our time: Dr. Laura Markham.

As soon as I visited her Aha Parenting website, and read some of the advice Dr. Laura shares, I knew you needed to be introduced to her too!

Today our conversation gets into vulnerability, trust, and resiliency. Dr. Laura helps us really enjoy our lives, and our kids.

I hope our conversation helps you gain a better understanding of this whole parenting thing. It sure helped me!

Temper Tantrums and Potty Training: During today's break I share about two helpful free guides I offer.
While the podcast is long-form – your opportunity to look into the mind of a child development expert – the free guides are super quick.

You can watch the video, read the checklist, and immediately handle the temper tantrums or get started with potty training (depending on which guide you choose : )

• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to handle every temper tantrum
• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to successfully potty train your child

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/255 for:

• Links to Dr. Laura's website, which contains tons of resources for you
• Information on my latest book, 10 Secrets Happy Parents Know, officially out in the world!!
• The video of the week: "How to get my kids to stop fighting with each other"

And thank you so much for listening!

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I feel your pain about getting kids to do chores.

They whine, and complain, and with enough of that, we begin to ask ourselves "is this really necessary? I could have already had this done myself, and saved us all this trouble."

But if kids don't do chores, what happens? Are they any more or less likely to have a successful, fulfilled, happy life?

Today we dive into this topic. We explore the right chore mindset, and three practical steps you can take, regarding chores and your child.

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/256 for:

• My chore cheat sheet, explaining the mindset and practical tips to help you in the moment
• The scoop on my latest book, just out! One reviewer says "If you're ready for communication and mutual respect to replace chaos and misbehavior, do yourself a favor and read 10 Secrets Happy Parents Know."
• The video of the week: "How to have a well behaved child at a party"

And thank you so much for listening!

Temper Tantrums and Potty Training: During today's break I share about two helpful free guides I offer.
While the podcast is long-form – your opportunity to look into the mind of a child development expert – the free guides are super quick.

You can watch the video, read the checklist, and immediately handle the temper tantrums or get started with potty training (depending on which guide you choose : )

• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to handle every temper tantrum
• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to successfully potty train your child

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HEADS UP: At the top of the show, we say we're going to tell you if we go into PG-13 territory. In the second half of this episode, I share about being sexually abused at age 7. You may want to listen away from your littles, or with headphones.

"Is it shyness or bad manners?" When a member of our private coaching community asked this question during a live members-only call recently, I knew I needed to get you a show about handling stranger anxiety.

We've got 12 ways for you to handle your child's stranger anxiety… and we talk about how stranger anxiety isn't necessarily a bad thing.

I hope this is a helpful episode as you head into the holiday season, and your young child is meeting lots of new people!

Temper Tantrums and Potty Training: During today's break I share about two wonderful free guides I offer.
While the podcast is long-form – your opportunity to look into the mind of a child development expert – the free guides are quick-and-effective.

You can watch the video, read the checklist, and immediately handle the temper tantrums or get started with potty training (depending on which guide you choose : )

• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to handle every temper tantrum
• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to successfully potty train your child

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/254 for:

• A cheat sheet on the 12 ways to handle stranger anxiety
• Links to the articles I quote from today
• The link to the WTOO Facebook page where Wednesday 12/12 I'm doing a Facebook live Ask Me Anything to kick off the launch of my latest book, 10 Secrets Happy Parents Know, officially out today!!
• The video of the week: "My child is anxious around new people"

And thank you so much for listening!

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Today I share how the stress I was under 7 1/2 years ago resulted in a lifelong tendon disorder.

I was so busy running our household and putting everyone else first, I did not pay attention to my health.

I really want you to learn from my mistake.

Today's show focuses on how our stress isn't just bad for us. It's bad for our kids, too.

We also dig into the stresses of "intensive" parenting (a.k.a. helicopter or lawnmower parenting). And as you'll see, that form of parenting stresses everybody out.

(Know what else stresses everybody out? Potty training, and temper tantrums… During today's break I share about a free guide I offer for each of these stressors:

• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to handle every temper tantrum
• Click here for the FREE video and checklist to successfully potty train your child)

In this episode I offer three ways for you to be less stressed, not just now as we get into the holiday season (and everyone is pretty well at the end of their rope) but about how you can be less stressed over the long haul.

It's Part 3 of the "how to raise successful, fulfilled, happy people" series, and I hope it helps you enjoy the time you spend with your littles!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/253 for:

• A cheat sheet on the 3 ways you can alleviate stress
• Links to the articles I quote from today
• What's up in the We Turned Out Okay universe, including tons of free resources : )
• The video of the week: "Good behavior at meals, good behavior at the park"

And thank you so much for listening!

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Thanksgiving is supposed to be fun, right? It's time with family, one last deep breath before December's insanity.

But when our kids were small I used to worry.

It's such a big meal. It takes such preparations. And it goes on for such a long time… How could I keep my boys quiet and happy on this day?

Then, there were the issues of stranger anxiety, and of small kids in a crowded space, with lots of treasured knickknacks and plants for them to hurt or break "on accident"… How could I give them a sense of security, and everyone else the sense that "here's a kid who won't destroy everything in sight"?

In this bonus episode I give you 5 ways to alleviate these problems, just in time for tomorrow's celebrations!

I am SO thankful. This is Ninja Parenting Community (NPC) member Jen, with her two little girls. Jen is a rockstar member of NPC! She brings not just great questions, but help and support for other members, a "parenting can be fun" sensibility, and also adorable pictures like this one. I am so grateful for Jen.

In this episode I share an announcement about something happening right now: the "I'm thankful" special, where you can join our exclusive parent coaching community for just $1 for the first month.

One member of the Ninja Parenting Community (NPC for short) recently shared in our forums:
"What a difference this has made!!!… I truly cannot thank you enough."

When she wrote those words I felt so grateful. To know that the work I do strengthens the bond between a parent and child; to know that I have expertise that brings families together?
Nothing feels better than that to me.

I am so thankful, and I want to share that gratitude with you.

If you've been thinking about jumping into NPC, but but you weren't sure that membership would be worthwhile, reread those words from NPC member Mama Llama above.

This is PJ Jonas and family; PJ, my guest in episode 173, shared so much about getting to the fun parts of family life. I'm so grateful for our conversation.

And then:

Imagine a December in which, when your young child acts up, you've got a place to come and get help right away.

Imagine bringing your kids to a family gathering without being fearful of what their behavior could be.

Imagine that instead of feeling gut-wrenching worry, instead of the guilt or sadness you feel when you shout or spank your little one, you could enjoy this special family time.

Then: click here to try NPC, for just $1, for your whole first month.

The "I'm grateful" special also includes a special discounted rate for every consecutive month you're in NPC (you can cancel at any time, so there's no risk)…

So make your dreams of happy family time a reality by clicking the link above!

(This offer ends the Thursday after Thanksgiving, Nov. 29. I know you don't want to miss out!
Click the link above today.)

Happy listening, and happy Thanksgiving!

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I did a happy dance a few weeks ago when I read that American Academy of Pediatrics has revised its guidelines on spanking and corporal punishment. This 67,000-doctor organization is coming out strongly against spanking, humiliating, and frightening children as discipline.

Today I'm rebroadcasting my conversation with former AAP president, Dr. Benard Dreyer. Dr. Dreyer gave such wonderful advice for parents as we raise our kids, and to my surprise it's been more than 2 years since this interview first aired! Time flies.

In the preshow, before our conversation, I read from the newspaper article that had me doing my happy dance, "Spanking is harmful, ineffective, group says."

Hope you enjoy this episode, and that it helps you remember to keep your discipline positive!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/252 for:

• The link to the article about the AAP's stance on spanking
• What's up in the We Turned Out Okay universe, including tons of free resources : )
• The video of the week: Off this week, returning after Thanksgiving

And thank you so much for listening!

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"What's a reasonable consequence for when I ask my young child to stop running away, and he doesn't stop, at the park?"
This is the gist of a recent question from one mom in our We Turned Out Okay Facebook group.

I shared what I think is a pretty good answer… and then other parents in the group shared their ideas. These ideas were so great – and so different from mine – that I knew I needed to talk about this issue on the podcast.

So, hope you enjoy this episode, dedicated to helping you set limits, and enjoy more of your time, when you are at a park or playground or out in the world with your young child!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/251 for:

• A breakdown of how you can reign in your young child, without overdoing it or losing your mind
• What's up in the We Turned Out Okay universe, including tons of free resources : )
• The video of the week: "Good behavior at meals, good behavior at the park"
• The sign-up for our upcoming 'When to potty train, How to potty train' free online class

And thank you so much for listening!

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The term "parenting style" feels so nebulous.

But what if your parenting style – what you do in day-to-day interactions with your young child – makes it harder for you to connect, to be happy as you raise your family?

What if it affected, not just your young one's childhood, but their whole life?

Framed like that, the parenting style we bring isn't so much nebulous, as important.
Key, even.

Today's episode digs into the 3 different parenting styles, how they affect your child's life, and yours.

It's part two of our "raising successful, fulfilled kids" series, and I hope it's useful for you!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/250 for:

• A cheat sheet on these 3 parenting styles
• What's up in the We Turned Out Okay universe, including tons of free resources : )
• The video of the week: "Am I smothering my child with love?"
• The sign-up for our upcoming 'When to potty train, How to potty train' free online class

And thank you so much for listening!

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Do you sometimes feel like you are raising your family in mighty frightening times?
So do I.

That's why, when I learned about the thing of beauty this week's guest created to combat fear, I knew I had to bring her on the show!

Mom, quilter, poet, and personal friend Cathleen Dinsmore recently created an amazing quilt-and-poem combination. The quilt is breathtaking – and, combined with the poem, fosters conversation around fear, and hope, and justice.

At weturnedoutokay.com you can view Cathleen's amazing quilt, read the beautiful poem, and prepare to be inspired by the incredible impact one person can have on alleviating fear and inspiring hope.

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/249 for:

• A look at Cathleen's racial justice quilt, her accompanying poem, and TONS of links that come up in today's conversation
• What's up in the We Turned Out Okay universe, including tons of free resources : )
• The video of the week: "Helping when Halloween scares your young child"

And thank you so much for listening!

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I am SO excited to bring you today's show!
I have good friend and colleague, Tricia Tomaso, a veteran preschool teacher and holder of a master's degree in special education.
Recently, Tricia helped me figure out the right mindset and steps parents can take while potty training – her amazing ideas come up in my Successful Potty Training Under Pressure course, in fact – and she has graciously agreed to come on the show and answer YOUR questions.

So! Today we take questions on:
– What to do if your child hits you, especially repeatedly
– How to handle it if you are a relatively low energy parent, and your child is a high-energy kid
– If you're worried that you are overinvolved with your kids
– And more!

Buckle in, this is a really fun and useful ride today!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/248 for:

• A summary of each "ask the expert" question and answer
• What's up in the We Turned Out Okay universe, including tons of free resources : )
• The video of the week: "I'm exhausted from doing too much for my kid"

And thank you so much for listening!

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Today's show dives into something difficult to imagine, when your kids are so young and your focus is on stuff like temper tantrums, sibling fights, and picky eaters.

We can wonder, what miracle will occur, just in the next decade or so, to change my kid from being so young and helpless, to someone who can lead a successful, fulfilled, and happy life?

Today, I'm beginning a deep dive into the idea of raising successful and fulfilled kids.

The idea was born years ago, when friends would lament the idea of the lack of business and entrepreneurship education in K-12 school.

Then several months ago it crystallized, when a friend, thinking he was motivating his child, changed his boy's internally-motivated entrepreneurial activity to one with strings attached (the boy wouldn't get his weekly allowance unless he worked on this previously for-fun, now parent mandated business activity.)

Today I share how you can avoid making this mistake.
Because it IS a huge mistake – and the repercussions can ripple out over your child's entire adult life.

This is one we really need to get right, so listen in and find out how.

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/247 for:

• A cheat sheet on the 4 steps outlined in his episode that you can take to avoid this mistake
• What's up in the We Turned Out Okay universe, including tons of free resources : )
• The video of the week: "Introverted parent, extroverted child"

And thank you so much for listening!

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Diane Hessan always knew she wanted to work full-time, while raising her daughters. Today she shares what that was really like, and how her life's work prepared her to fulfill a super important role in today's frightening and demoralizing political climate.

Nowadays, Diane speaks daily with 500 American voters. These are people from every area of the country, every walk of life, every creed, every color. And as she connects with them Diane is learning important lessons that she takes into her own life.

Listen to our conversation today to discover what these lessons are, so you can enjoy your life, and be helpful to those around you at the same time!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/246 for:

• Links that come up in our conversation today
• What's up in the We Turned Out Okay universe, including tons of free resources : )
• The 3 most important things to remember from today's conversation

And thank you so much for listening!

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When should you start potty training your child? [caption id="attachment_1787" align="alignleft" width="150"] Don't you wish your kid looked this happy sitting on a potty?[/caption]

How should you potty train your child?

I've done some research on these two questions, and let me tell you, they are asked really often in Google.

Is this on your mind? Or, are you already trying to potty train, but hitting serious roadblocks?
Then, today's episode is for you!

In it I share 3 ways to know if your child is ready for potty training, and also 3 tips on how to actually accomplish this feat.

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/245 for:

• A positive way forward in potty training your young child
• The intro video to this epic course I just created, Successful Potty Training Under Pressure. You can watch the intro and see if the course would be helpful for you!
• The 3 most important things to remember about potty training

And thank you so much for listening!

PS Today I share about a course I just finished that I'm really proud of!
It's called Successful Potty Training Under Pressure, a comprehensive guide to potty training your young child in even the most difficult of circumstances, and you can check it out by clicking here.
Or if you'd rather, get the first lesson FREE! Click here to have Lesson 1, "How to make this take the shortest amount of time possible," dropped right into your inbox!

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Recently one of the moms in my parent coaching community wrote in to share that her 4-year-old sons were about to start school… in a preschool-through-12th-grade school where corporal punishment is used.

"I can't imagine [my boys] doing anything that would warrant a paddling, but I could not make myself check that box saying it was okay," she wrote in our forums.

She then shared that, if parents check the "no, don't spank my kid" box, children are exposed to other punishments such as a 3-day suspension and zeros on any assignments missed!

I was shocked. In every state there are laws against striking people in prisons and in the military; in most every state it's illegal to strike an animal.

But it turns out that in 19 states, it's okay to strike a child in school.

Come down the rabbit hole with me, into the world of corporal punishment.
It's a world that might be much closer to you than you ever imagined.

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/244 for:

• Links to the articles I discuss today
• The video I made recently about what to do when your young child wants to do everything all by him or herself… but can't, and then has a fit
• Also to hear my story about being in a flash flood this week!! I talk about that during the break. It was scary, that's for sure!

And thank you so much for listening!

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You'll love today's conversation if you look at your little kids and can't imagine how they could possibly become functioning – never mind happy or successful – adults.

Dad and author Jonathan Greene shares wisdom, and great stories, with us today!

Our conversation is all about how Jonathan went from being a latchkey kid – who was routinely mugged, and didn't let it bother him – to a hovering father of young children.

Today he's a dad of teens who's formed really great bonds with his son and daughter, and shares today about the choices he made that helped develop those bonds.

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/243 for this week's YouTube video about what to do when your child is sneaking candy and treats that they know are off limits, for the podcast back catalog and all the great links that come up in today's episode.

And thanks for listening!

Shout out to all you We Turned Out Okay Patreon patrons!

Patrons get exclusive content, EXTRA Magic Words for Parents videos, early access to my forthcoming book, Your Child Explained Vol 1, and lots more help and advice that regular listeners can only dream of.

Click Patreon.com/weturnedoutokay to find out how you can get these benefits too!

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"Today my 2.5-year-old and his Dad were in a car accident… This happened around 1 PM today and my son has been talking about it and asking questions all evening. I'm trying to answer in simple clear terms but I feel over my head. It feels like a punch in the gut every time it comes up again."
So wrote one of our Ninja Parenting Community members over the summer. Scary stuff!

Helping her process her young child's trauma, and helping her through her own, has been a real focus of mine ever since.

So it seemed only right to share these lessons with you!
That way you'll be prepared if something traumatic happens that involves your children.

Tune in to find out 3 ways to help your young child process trauma - and read about these 3 ways, find the entire back catalog of the podcast, watch my recent YouTube video about how to make big parenting decisions, and check out lots more stuff at weturnedoutokay.com/242 ...

And thanks for listening!

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"[My husband and I, and our little daughter] are rushing out the door and late to work most mornings. I'm looking forward to participating in the challenge to figure out how to get to work on time!"

"With kindergarten I feel like I'm about to toss [my daughter] to the wolves. I'm worried I will have to practically push her through the door. How can I help her overcome her fear and her habitual morning anxiety?"

Do you, like these listeners, struggle with chaotic mornings? If so sign up here for the Streamline Your Mornings challenge, going on all next week September 10-14!

Each day you will learn one new tactic to eliminate the stress and frustration that mornings can bring, so you can calmly and confidently enjoy your mornings with your kids.

Stop the morning madness!

Listen to this quickie episode to learn more about the Streamline Your Mornings challenge… And then:
Click the link below to join this challenge:
weturnedoutokay.com/streamline

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To wrap up our Back-to-School Bootcamp series we take a look today at milestones, guidelines, and goals in our kids' education.

How important is it to have a 20,000-foot view of a young child's life?
What kind of goals should you set, and what kind of milestones should you look for?

That's what today's episode is all about.

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/241 for notes to this episode...

Sign up for the upcoming Streamline Your Mornings challenge by clicking here: weturnedoutokay.com/streamline!

And click here for an advanced chapter of my forthcoming book, Your Child Explained Volume 1… 

And thank you so much for listening!

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Glad you are here for Module 3 of our Back-to-School Bootcamp!

Today we follow up on last week's discussion of what to do about school or childcare problems, so listen back to that one if you're wondering "how do I handle THIS?"

Many of us wonder "what is my role in my child's education, how can I best help?" I've got three crucial actions you must take so your child can thrive!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/240 for more on these 3 steps, help getting your child to love reading, and links to back episodes of everything…

And thank you so much for listening!

[Please note: Magic Words for Parents, ourseries of quick phrases to help you say the right thing even in the toughest parenting moments, is on vacation until September 10… Click here for the playlist of past Magic Words in YouTube, and click here for the EXTRA Magic Words videos … get exclusive access by becoming a We Turned Out Okay Patreon patron.]

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Glad you are here for Module 2 of our Back-to-School Boot camp!

Today we follow up on last week's determination of readiness, so listen back to that one if you're wondering "is my child ready for this?"

Problems can crop up whether your child is "ready" for this step or not, so I've got three crucial steps you need to take to handle challenges!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/239 for more on these 3 steps, help getting your child to love reading, and links to back episodes of everything…

And thank you so much for listening!

[Please note: Magic Words for Parents, ourseries of quick phrases to help you say the right thing even in the toughest parenting moments, is on vacation until September 10… Click here for the playlist of past Magic Words in YouTube, and click here for the EXTRA Magic Words videos … get exclusive access by becoming a We Turned Out Okay Patreon patron.]

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We've got a great August coming up for you, a whole series of new episodes on overcoming the perils of back-to-school!

Starting with today's episode, in which I share three ways to know if your child is ready – for preschool, for kindergarten, for first or second grade, for relocating to a new school… You name it and we cover it in this episode.

If, after you listen, you're thinking "maybe my kid ISN'T ready for this…" Hang onto your hats for next week. That is when we will discuss what to do if you're not sure your child is ready for whatever's in store!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/238 for help getting your child to love reading, to take my survey on your biggest back-to-school challenge, and links to back episodes of everything…

And thank you so much for listening!

[Please note: Magic Words for Parents, our series of quick phrases to help you say the right thing even in the toughest parenting moments, is on vacation until September 10… Click here for the playlist of past Magic Words in YouTube, and click here for the EXTRA Magic Words videos … get exclusive access by becoming a We Turned Out Okay Patreon patron.]

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Talking with returning champion KJ Dell'Antonia is always a pleasure, and this episode is maybe my favorite conversation with her yet!

KJ has got a book coming out later this month, and if you're feeling the pressures of parenting, you are going to LOVE her book, How to be a Happier Parent.

Like so many of my favorite conversations, this one zooms around and goes in directions that I didn't envision when we sat down to talk.

And every direction offers something valuable for you to take into your parenting life.

We talk about:

• Why parents need something of their own – something separate from your kids – to enjoy
• How (and why) after-school activities and sports got so crazy
• KJ's two key steps to handling the big, bad pressures on us parents.

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/237 for the TONS of links that come up in our conversation, and also to read more about KJ's 2-step process to deal with those pressures…

And thank you so much for listening!

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What's toughest for you about this time of year? Maybe it's your worries about how your child will handle the upcoming school year…

Or maybe it's just that you can't stand the thought of the crazy schedule changes that are coming your way…

Or maybe you're worrying about how to work with teachers or administrators?

I'm creating a Back to School Bootcamp to directly address your toughest struggles!

We'll have new Bootcamp podcast episodes all throughout August to get you the help you need, here at the beginning of the school year, PLUS a free guide teaching 6 ways to help your kids love reading…

It all starts with you sharing what drives you most nuts at this time of year.

Click here to fill out my super-quick, 3-question back-to-school survey, so I can help you best in these upcoming weeks!

Cheers!

PS Want to help your child love reading? Click here for the guide : )

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Welcome to Part 5 of our series on how to have good weeknights with your kids!

Click here for our FREE Tame the Weeknight Chaos Guide

Today we are talking about what to do when things go wrong with even the best-planned weeknight..

I've got 3 easy steps that you can use to overcome the frustrations, troubleshoot the problems that come up, and truly enjoy weeknights with your children!

Watch this video for more on these steps to solve weeknight issues:

Want my concise roadmap to good weeknights with your kids? Get the Tame the Weeknight Chaos video and checklist today!
Get the guide – and also watch the video module I made to accompany this episode, plus the video I made this week about what to do when your young child hits you  – at:
weturnedoutokay.com/236

Thanks and happy listening!

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Welcome to Part 4 of our series on how to have good weeknights with your kids!

Click here for the FREE Tame the Weeknight Chaos Guide

Today we are talking about how to say positive, weeknight after weeknight, even when you are burned out on family time..

I've got 3 easy steps that you can use to overcome the feeling of being fed up and instead truly enjoy weeknights with your children!

Watch this video for more on these steps to overcome weeknight burnout:

Want my concise roadmap to good weeknights with your kids? Get the Tame the Weeknight Chaos video and checklist today!
Get the guide – and also watch the video module I made to accompany this episode, plus the videos I made this week about stopping kids' annoying behavior and what to do when your child is jumping on the couch to attract your attention at the WORST possible time – at:
weturnedoutokay.com/235

Thanks and happy listening!

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Welcome to Part 3 of our Taming the Weeknight Chaos series!

Click here for the FREE Tame the Weeknight Chaos Guide, including Video & Checklist

Today we are talking about how to start weeknights off right.

I've got 3 easy steps that you can use to get a peaceful and enjoyable start to this very evening!

Want my complete, free Guide to Taming Weeknight chaos, which includes a 6-point checklist and a video?
Get the guide – and also watch the video module I made to accompany this episode – at:
weturnedoutokay.com/234

Thanks and happy listening!

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Welcome to Part 2 of our Taming the Weeknight Chaos series!

Today we address a huge challenge in every parent's efforts to create enjoyable, smooth family weeknights: there's just not enough time to get everything done.

In fact today is a troubleshooting episode, because we tackle that problem – and also the "I'm always the bad cop" problem that comes up for tons of parents!

You'll find this episode really helpful if weeknight chaos is a problem for you.

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/233 for:

A video covering these two common problems with weeknights;

And: A free 6-Point Checklist and Video Guide to help you truly enjoy weeknights with your kids

Happy listening : )

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Today is the start of a new series here at We Turned Out okay!

It's all about taming the chaotic and crazy weeknights that so many of us experience in raising kids.

We start by investigating: WHY are weeknights so tough?

For us parents, evenings – especially weeknights – are a constant slog.

I want to make this series tailored exactly to your needs, and in order to do that I need you to respond to the poll I've got going on this very topic!

Go to the We Turned Out Okay Facebook page to take the poll (the link is just below)…

Or if you are in the We Turned Out Okay email group, the poll has already landed in your inbox, and hopefully you've already written me back.

Thank you so much for helping me make this series into exactly what will help you most!

All The Links I'm making it easy on you to access all the links I talk about in today's episode:

Click here for the We Turned Out Okay Facebook page, where you can take the poll (and also catch the Magic Words for Parents video I do live each Monday at 10 AM EST : )

Click here for the Karen Lock Kolp YouTube channel, featuring a playlist of Magic Words for Parents, including this week's which shares a phrase for when your child loses a special comfort object, like a blanky or stuffed animal.

Click here for EXTRA Magic Words for Parents, exclusive access to my patron-only feed, advanced chapters of my forthcoming book, Your Child Explained Volume 1, and other great stuff which goes way beyond what regular listeners get… Find all these awesome and exclusive extras at Patreon.com/weturnedoutokay!

I teach these great things called Parent-Ninja Tactics, which are THE key to happy parenting, and they're only available in the Ninja Parenting Community.
I would love to teach you these and help you truly enjoy the time you spend with your kids!
Join the Ninja Parenting Community by going to weturnedoutokay.com/joinNPC.

Click here to sign up for my FREE checklist and video on How to Handle Every Temper Tantrum so that you can calmly, confidently handle your child's very next one!

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/232 for every back episode of the podcast, and to read more about the top three reasons why weeknights are so challenging…

And thank you so much for listening!

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Today we're talking about safety – just simple safety. I've got three unconventional ways to help you ensure that your child is safe, in a variety of situations and from the time that they are very small…

For notes on the three ways I share this episode to keep your child safe, and also for every podcast back episode,

Go to weturnedoutokay.com/231

And for podcast extras you will LOVE go to patreon.com/weturnedoutokay...

Thank you so much for listening!

How to share about today's show As always, thank you for sharing about We Turned Out Okay!

Today's is the kind of show where somebody might get upset when you say "oh – YOU will get so much benefit," because nobody wants to think that they wouldn't keep their kids safe.

So if you know someone who is notorious for letting their kids run around unattended, or for yelling all the time, here's how to share it:

Post it on a public page, like your Facebook page, and say something like "I got such benefit from this episode of We Turned Out Okay," instead of singling somebody else out.

And thank you so much for sharing! That is how our show has grown and grown : )

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I'm so happy to share this wonderful conversation with Charlie Hoehn, dad, podcaster, person who helps people publish books, and (most important for our conversation today) author.

Charlie's book, Play It Away, shares his experience with soul-sucking anxiety, and the simple cure he found.

The thing about this cure is, it's something humans all do naturally, and it's as important to us as sleep.

But yet we often grow up and forget how important it is; the lack of this crucial element in Charlie's life is what caused his terrible anxiety.

If you're feeling anxious, you are going to love our conversation.

And if you're not feeling anxious, you'll still love it because it will help you see the importance of this element in your child's life.

Shout out this week to new patrons of We Turned Out Okay: Steve, and Sue, who are supporting WTOO in Patreon and getting access to exclusive content, like EXTRA Magic Words for Parents, and Behind-the-Scenes videos!

You can get these great extras too, just by going to Patreon.com/weturnedoutokay!

This week's Magic Words for Parents video shares a quick phrase you can use to help when your child is feeling overwhelmed by too many choices. Watch by clicking here to join the We Turned Out Okay Facebook group, or by clicking here to watch in YouTube, where there's a whole playlist of Magic Words!

Thank you for listening to today's episode!
Key links and show notes – and THE CUTEST picture of Charlie with his little girl! – at weturnedoutokay.com/230.

Cheers!

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I'm so excited to bring you this week's show, all about timeouts!

• Also:
  I announce the name of the parenting book I'm working on right now! And I share some exciting news: the introduction to this book is available for you to read, for free, at Patreon.com/weturnedoutokay!
• This week's Magic Words for Parents video shares a quick phrase you can use to stop your child's begging and whining in stores like Target or food shopping. Watch by clicking here to join the We Turned Out Okay Facebook group, or by clicking here to watch in YouTube, where there's a whole playlist of Magic Words!
• Thanks to all the We Turned Out Okay Patreon patrons, and shout out to Tiffany, our latest patron! Tiffany's getting some awesome rewards, which you can get too, listen to today's show and go to Patreon.com/weturnedoutokay for more information : )