Mindshift: Transforming Perspectives on Parenting & Education

What 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 thinkin...

Is 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 t...

In 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 ...

Are 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 Julee Sauer challenges our outdated assumptions about high school education and student success.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&apos...

Sleep 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 prio...

Is "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...

When 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 tr...

What 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 t...

Are 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...

What 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 succ...

What 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 strate...

It'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 "p...

"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...

'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 ...

Think 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 watc...

Is 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 paren...

'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 pra...