"Failure to Launch: What's really holding back emerging adults?"
Guest: Lisa Smith
As parents, it is difficult--sometimes excruciating--to watch our teens struggle. Lisa Smith, founder ofSave
My Family Today, explains to Allen how too often well-meaning parents try to intervene, causing stress and
chaos in their own lives and in others. Lisa has coined the term "parenting exaggerated" to describe
situations where a parent is willing to do anything and everything to make their child happy; to shield them
from all discomfort, pain, inconveniences and consequences. Often times, parents unknowingly take on the role
of "savior" instead of "parent," whose jobs it is to guide, teach, nurture and give direction with the end
goal being a healthy, competent, responsible adult.
ABOUT LISA SMITH
Lisa Smith has over 18 years of experience, a Master's degree, and credentials in Counseling. After teaching
for several years and directing one of the largest after school programs for at-risk kids, she became the
Intervention Counselor at a large urban high school in Southern California. Lisa now runs her own business,
Save My Family Today, which provides in-home family coaching in Los Angeles and Orange County, as well as
phone coaching for parents across the country.
