Send us a textWhen parents see headlines about rising juvenile crime rates, it's easy to feel helpless. While juvenile arrests have declined since the 1990s, troubling increases in firearm violence and homicide rates among youth ages 10-14 have parents searching for answers. Teresa Ramirez, motivational speaker and kindness ambassador, offers a compelling alternative to fear—intentional kindness that transforms families from the inside out.
"Parents need to become the CEO of their families," Teresa explains, sharing practical techniques that help children develop the empathy and social awareness that troubled youth often lack. Her approach isn't complicated—it begins with three simple daily check-in questions, gratitude practices, and powerful words of affirmation that create a foundation of kindness within the home.
What makes Teresa's message unique is her focus on intentionality. "People say, 'I'm kind all the time,' but with intentionality comes consistency," she explains. Her stories illustrate how this approach works in real-world situations—from defusing road rage with a clown nose to transforming a hostile server's day with a simple note. These moments demonstrate the ripple effect of kindness that extends far beyond individual interactions.
Parents will appreciate Teresa's practical tools—using bubbles to teach children how to pause before reacting, writing sticky notes with encouraging messages, and acknowledging the "invisible people" in our communities. These simple acts build a foundation that helps children navigate social challenges and notice peers who might be struggling or isolated.
The episode culminates with Teresa sharing resources from her award-winning book "Raising Kind Children" and her free guide "75 Acts of Kindness"—a graduated list that helps families start their journey toward making kindness "as natural as breathing." Download this powerful resource and discover how your family can be part of the solution to creating a more compassionate world, one intentional act at a time.This podcast is a proud member of the Mayday Media Network. If you have an idea for a podcast and need some production assistance or have a podcast and are looking for a supportive network to join, check out maydaymedianetwork.com. Like what you hear on the podcast? Follow our social media for more uplifting, inspirational and feel-good content.FacebookInstagramLinkedInTikTok Support the show