Shows
Mindshift: Transforming Perspectives on Parenting & EducationShifting the Perspective on ExpectationsAre we pushing our kids too hard—or not hard enough? In this thought-provoking finale to Season 1 of Mindshift, hosts Christopher and Deb explore the delicate balance of expectations with learning expert Mark Williams. The conversation begins with personal reflections—Christopher feeling pressured about his preschooler's achievements and Deb sharing her grandson's mental health struggles with perfectionism. Mark draws from his experience as both an educator and father of three to offer a middle path: encouraging exploration while maintaining boundaries. He introduces the powerful "never mid-season" approach to quitting activities and explains why scheduled family downtime is non-negotiable in an o...2025-05-2115 minMindshift: Transforming Perspectives on Parenting & EducationShifting the Perspective on Summer LearningIs your child's brain melting this summer? It doesn't have to! In this eye-opening episode of Mindshift, we dive into the world of summer learning with library dynamo Kelly Warehime. Forget boring worksheets—discover how counting M&Ms, playing video games as sports commentators, and involving kids in meal planning can spark learning without killing the summer vibe! Kelly debunks the myth that summer enrichment must feel like school, instead offering creative approaches that meet kids where they are—whether they love graphic novels or need downtime after a busy day. Between hilarious personal stories and expert insights, this conv...2025-05-1415 minMindshift: Transforming Perspectives on Parenting & EducationShifting the Perspective on Digital Life (Teen POV)In this candid conversation, Mindshift welcomes high school students Taylor and Jacquelynn who pull back the curtain on Gen Z's digital reality. Discover which platforms today's teens actually use, why they maintain multiple accounts for different audiences, and how gender differences shape online engagement. The students speak honestly about navigating online pressure, AI-generated misinformation, and their own strategies for managing screen time. Their straightforward advice for parents—learn the apps and approach technology conversations with positivity rather than judgment—offers practical wisdom for bridging the digital generation gap. This refreshing student perspective provides both hope and understanding for parents navi...2025-05-0715 minMindshift: Transforming Perspectives on Parenting & EducationShifting the Perspective on NeurodiversityWhat if your child's different way of thinking isn't something to fix, but something to celebrate? In this enlightening episode of Mindshift, hosts Christopher and Deb explore neurodiversity with special education experts Kaylee Ayala and Dr. Heather Post. Discover what neurodiversity really means, how to recognize developmental differences in children of all ages, and practical strategies for supporting different thinking styles at home. Our guests share personal insights about balancing the "superpower" aspects of neurodivergent thinking with everyday challenges, while emphasizing that all children benefit from routine, high expectations, and the freedom to make mistakes. This conversation offers valuable...2025-04-3015 minMindshift: Transforming Perspectives on Parenting & EducationShifting the Perspective on Screen TimeIs screen time stealing our children's innocence? In this compelling episode, SmartGen Society expert Suzie Fogarty reveals the hidden costs of our digital dependence. From surprising research showing why Silicon Valley execs send their kids to low-tech schools to the heartbreaking admission from a teen that social media "cost me my innocence," this conversation transforms how we view technology in our homes. Learn the critical difference between active and passive screen time, discover why co-viewing matters for young learners, and gain practical strategies to ensure devices don't control your family life. Whether you're navigating toddler tablet time or teen...2025-04-2315 minMindshift: Transforming Perspectives on Parenting & EducationShifting the Perspective on MoneyIn a world where some 4-year-olds think Target shopping is free and parents often find themselves hiding money conversations, how do we raise financially literate kids? Join hosts Christopher and Deb as they confront their own money challenges with Cobalt Credit Union expert Kendra Cain. From digital payment confusion to sibling spending differences, this episode delivers practical strategies for transforming everyday moments into powerful financial lessons. Discover how simple activities like grocery budgeting and handling payment cards can prepare children for financial success in today's cashless economy.2025-04-1614 minMindshift: Transforming Perspectives on Parenting & EducationShifting the Perspective on High SchoolAre parents pushing college prep as early as preschool? Dr. Julee Sauer challenges our outdated assumptions about high school education and student success. With refreshing candor from her 34-year career, she reveals why "durable skills" might matter more than perfect grades, and how the landscape of post-graduation options has expanded beyond traditional four-year degrees. Discover what returning graduates wish they'd known and how parents can support teens through productive struggle rather than clearing every obstacle in their path.2025-04-0915 minMindshift: Transforming Perspectives on Parenting & EducationShifting the Perspective on Sleep, Listener Q&ASleep expert Dr. Connie returns to answer your burning questions about getting better rest! From practical strategies for quieting a racing mind at bedtime to the truth about white noise and sleep apps, this episode delivers research-backed solutions for your most common sleep struggles. Dr. Connie busts myths about learning while you sleep, explains why those middle-of-the-night wake-ups happen, and makes a passionate plea to prioritize sleep over trendy health fixes. Whether you're dealing with bedtime battles or your own sleep challenges, discover why protecting your sleep might be the foundation for better health you've been overlooking.2025-04-0215 minMindshift: Transforming Perspectives on Parenting & EducationShifting the Perspective on Anger ManagementIs "anger management" missing the point? In this provocative episode, therapist Anita Akers joins Christopher and Deb to flip conventional wisdom on its head. The conversation ignites when Deb declares anger management "stupid," leading to a fascinating exploration of how we've misunderstood this universal emotion. Discover the brain science behind emotional reactions, why telling someone to "calm down" never works, and practical strategies for helping children express their feelings appropriately. Whether you're navigating a four-year-old's tantrums or managing your own reactions, this conversation offers a liberating truth: it's not about managing emotions—it's about understanding them.2025-03-2614 minMindshift: Transforming Perspectives on Parenting & EducationShifting the Perspective on Separation & DivorceWhen divorce transforms a family, what happens to the children navigating this emotional terrain? In this compelling episode, mental health therapist Liz Wollmann demolishes common myths about "damaged children of divorce" while offering a framework for parents facing this challenging journey. Drawing from her extensive experience as a collaborative divorce coach and mediator, Liz delivers game-changing strategies that transform family transition into opportunity for growth. Whether you're contemplating divorce, currently separated, or supporting someone who is, this powerful conversation reveals exactly how parents can protect their children's emotional wellbeing while rebuilding their own lives. Don't miss this conversation on...2025-03-1915 minMindshift: Transforming Perspectives on Parenting & EducationShifting the Perspective on Offline RelationshipsWhat happens when kids forget how to make friends in person? Experts reveal shocking examples of students unable to interact after weeks together—despite wearing nametags! Discover why intentional face-to-face relationships build crucial resilience that screens can't provide, and how adults can model meaningful connections. Beyond the digital divide, this conversation offers parents and educators practical hope for nurturing the social skills young people desperately need in today's disconnected world.2025-03-1215 minMindshift: Transforming Perspectives on Parenting & EducationShifting the Perspective on SleepAre you sleeping all wrong? Boys Town psychologist Connie Schnoes joins hosts Christopher and Deb to shatter sleep myths that might be harming your health. With 27 years of sleep expertise, Connie reveals why getting less than seven hours of sleep impairs you like having a 0.08 blood alcohol level and increases your risk of illness by 50-60%. Discover why eight hours is non-negotiable, the truth about melatonin supplements, and why teenagers biologically can't fall asleep early despite school schedules demanding early mornings. Ready for better rest? Submit your sleep questions to communications@plcschools.org by Monday, March 24 to b...2025-03-0515 minMindshift: Transforming Perspectives on Parenting & EducationShifting the Perspective on Kindness & CompassionWhat makes a truly kind child? Discover the surprising science behind compassion with researcher Dr. Vicki Zakrzewski from UC Berkeley's Greater Good Science Center. Beyond empty "be nice" commands, learn practical ways to show your child the powerful difference between superficial politeness and genuine kindness. This eye-opening conversation reveals why teaching compassion creates not just nicer kids, but more successful and resilient ones too - perfect for parents who worry kindness might make their children vulnerable in a competitive world.2025-02-2615 minMindshift: Transforming Perspectives on Parenting & EducationShifting the Perspective on PunishmentWhat if punishment isn't about control, but about connection? In this eye-opening episode, behavior coach Chad Nichols reveals how to shift from traditional discipline to teaching and understanding. Through real-world examples—from preschool meltdowns to teen dinner battles—learn practical ways to help your kids navigate challenges while building stronger family bonds. No complicated behavior charts or guilt trips, just strategies that actually work.2025-02-1915 minMindshift: Transforming Perspectives on Parenting & EducationShifting the Perspective on Academic SupportIt's not about being the best, it's about being their best. Sounds simple, right? In this game-changing episode, 35-year education veteran Gretchen Kalkowski joins hosts Christopher and Deb to share why this subtle shift in thinking could transform your family's approach to learning. From a four-year-old's basketball adventures to a high schooler's calculus complaints, discover how letting go of the "perfect grade" chase can actually lead to better learning (and happier kids!). Whether you're wrestling with report cards or trying to build confidence in a struggling student, this episode offers a refreshing truth: real learning happens when we focus...2025-02-1215 minMindshift: Transforming Perspectives on Parenting & EducationShifting the Perspective on Artificial Intelligence - Part 2"My grandkids know more about AI than I do!" Is this your fear too? Don't worry - you're not alone. In this eye-opening episode, UNO's AI Learning Lab expert Cassie Mallette returns to flip the script on AI anxiety. Discover why having your child use AI for homework might actually sharpen their critical thinking (yes, really!), and why some students are surprisingly hesitant to use it at all. From classroom 'calculator rules' to future careers, get practical guidance on navigating our AI-powered world. Join hosts Christopher and Deb for a refreshingly honest conversation that transforms the family AI discussion...2025-02-0515 minMindshift: Transforming Perspectives on Parenting & EducationShifting the Perspective on Artificial Intelligence - Part 1'I was talking to my friend Claude about Christmas shopping...' Wait, who's Claude? In this enlightening episode, UNO's AI Learning Lab expert Cassie Mallette joins hosts Christopher and Deb to demystify artificial intelligence in our daily lives. From using AI to plan the perfect family vacation to having it help with tricky homework problems, discover why this technology might be more friend than foe. Whether you're tech-savvy or tech-nervous, this episode transforms intimidating AI concepts into practical family tools. And those Netflix shows you love? That's AI working behind the scenes! By the end of this episode, you...2025-01-2915 minMindshift: Transforming Perspectives on Parenting & EducationShifting the Perspective on the Digital WorldThink screen time is the enemy? Think again. In this myth-busting episode, school counselors Emily Boisseree and Chris Bowlby flip the script on digital parenting. Instead of focusing on restrictions and time limits, discover why asking "how does this make you feel?" might be more powerful than setting another screen time rule. From turning TikTok scrolling into family bonding time to understanding why your kid loves watching gaming videos, our experts share practical ways to navigate the digital world together. Whether you're wrestling with Snapchat decisions or judging your toddler's YouTube habits, this episode offers a refreshing take on...2025-01-2214 minMindshift: Transforming Perspectives on Parenting & EducationShifting the Perspective on Anxiety and DepressionIs anxiety always a disorder, or could it be a protective response? In this illuminating episode, school psychologist Vern Davis-Showell and counselor Justine Clemenger join hosts Christopher and Deb to reframe how we think about children's mental health. From turning car rides into conversation opportunities to understanding the delicate balance between physical and digital safety, our experts offer practical wisdom for parents and educators. Whether you're a parent concerned about screen time's impact on mental health or an educator looking to support students better, this episode offers fresh perspectives on anxiety and depression in today's youth.2025-01-1415 minMindshift: Transforming Perspectives on Parenting & EducationShifting the Perspective on Healthy Lifestyles'Just drink water and eat air' - sound familiar? If you're tired of unrealistic health goals and guilt-inducing resolutions, this episode is your permission slip to try something different. PE expert Kyle McMahon reveals why turning your family walk into a geocaching adventure or letting your picky eater help cook dinner might be more powerful than any strict diet plan. No guilt trips, no complicated plans - just practical ways to make healthy living feel less like a chore and more like play.2025-01-1313 min