Parenting Through The Hard

When Loving Well Starts to Cost You

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 09:01:02 GMT

In this episode, I name something that’s been quietly surfacing beneath my emotions lately. The pressure to disappear in order to be loving, faithful, or helpful.

This conversation isn’t about addiction, recovery, or outcomes. It’s about fatigue, resentment, and what can happen when caring deeply turns into self abandonment, especially in long seasons of responsibility.

I reflect on the fear of getting it right, the exhaustion no one prepares you for, and a midlife reorientation that’s reshaping how I carry love, including learning to speak honestly instead of shutting down.

This episode also marks the close of Season Three of Parenting Through the Hard.

As I take a short break between seasons, I’m offering a six-week guided group experience for parents. It’s a small, supportive space to slow down, reflect, journal, and share with others who understand. It’s not therapy. It’s about not carrying everything alone.

Learn more and register for the parent group by clicking here.

If you’ve ever loved deeply and wondered where you went in the process, this episode is for you.

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If you’d like to partner with us and support the podcast, consider sponsoring an upcoming episode by making a donation of any size to Parenting Through the Hard [by clicking here].

Your support keeps this podcast running — and goes directly toward production costs and continuing this mission.

For more resources and hope-filled tools, visit parentingthroughthehard.com

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a replacement for professional counseling or medical guidance.

Parenting Through Strained Relationships With Your Teen or Adult Child

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 09:00:02 GMT

What do you do when the relationship with your teen or adult child feels strained, when there is tension, distance, or an ache you cannot quite explain?

In this episode of Parenting Through the Hard, I share a deeply personal reflection on what happens when connection feels stretched thin. I talk about how attachment patterns, generational wiring, anxiety, over involvement, and withdrawal can quietly shape the way we respond to our kids, especially when their choices feel hard or scary.

If you have ever felt disconnected from your child, struggled between control and compassion, or wondered how to stay present without losing your peace, this conversation is for you. This is not about fixing our kids. It is about doing our own inner work so we can rebuild connection with humility, steadiness, and hope.

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If you’d like to partner with us, consider sponsoring an upcoming episode by making a donation of any size to Parenting Through the Hard [by clicking here].

Your support keeps this podcast running — and goes directly toward production costs and continuing this mission.

For more resources and hope-filled tools, visit parentingthroughthehard.com

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a replacement for professional counseling or medical guidance.

I Wonder If They’ll Ever Understand

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 09:05:00 GMT

Have you ever found yourself thinking, “I wonder if they’ll ever understand what this was like for me?”

In this episode, I talk about a quiet ache many parents of adult children carry.. the longing to be acknowledged for what it cost to love them through addiction, rebellion, mental health struggles, or long seasons of distance.

Why does it hurt when your child doesn’t say thank you? Why does appreciation feel so important? And is there a way to let go of needing that acknowledgment without hardening our hearts?

I explore identity, boundaries, generational love, and what it means to believe you mattered even if your child never fully articulates it.

If you’re parenting teens or adult children and sometimes feel unseen in your story, this conversation is for you.

If you’d like to partner with us and support the podcast, consider sponsoring an upcoming episode by making a donation of any size to Parenting Through the Hard [by clicking here].

Your support keeps this podcast running — and goes directly toward production costs and continuing this mission.

For more resources and hope-filled tools, visit parentingthroughthehard.com

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a replacement for professional counseling or medical guidance.

When Your Child’s Change Changes You: Healing Over-Functioning in Parenthood

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 09:00:02 GMT

What happens when your identity has been shaped by being the steady one — and recovery changes your role?

In this episode, I talk about codependency in parenting, identity detox, and the grief and anxiety that surface when your child begins to stabilize. We explore how over-functioning can hide inside love — and how stepping back creates space for healthier connection.

If you’ve ever wondered who you are without crisis to manage, this conversation is for you.

If you’d like to partner with us and support the podcast, consider sponsoring an upcoming episode by making a donation of any size to Parenting Through the Hard [by clicking here].

Your support keeps this podcast running — and goes directly toward production costs and continuing this mission.

For more resources and hope-filled tools, visit parentingthroughthehard.com

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a replacement for professional counseling or medical guidance.

When Your Child’s Chaos Becomes Yours: How to Stay Steady

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 09:00:02 GMT

If you’re the parent of a teen or adult child who is struggling, this episode is for you.

I’m talking about what it's like to stay calm when your child’s life feels unstable. How to stop reacting, regulate your emotions, and let go without giving up.

When the setback happens or the hard conversation catches you off guard, it’s easy to match their anxiety. I share what I’m learning about emotional regulation, steady hope, and how to love without trying to control the outcome.

You can’t control the tide. But you can choose how you stand on the shore.

If you’d like to partner with us and support the podcast, consider sponsoring an upcoming episode by making a donation of any size to Parenting Through the Hard [by clicking here].

Your support keeps this podcast running — and goes directly toward production costs and continuing this mission.

For more resources and hope-filled tools, visit parentingthroughthehard.com

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a replacement for professional counseling or medical guidance.

Hope in the Hard: The Waiting That Shapes Us

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 10:00:06 GMT

In this Hope in the Hard episode, I slow down with a story many of us know, the one often called the prodigal son, and I reflect on it through a different lens. Instead of focusing on the child who wandered, I sit with the parent who stayed.

As a mom navigating the challenges of parenting teens and adult children, including seasons of addiction, distance, and unanswered questions, I explore the long, quiet stretch of waiting that lives between departure and return. I wonder about the unseen work God may be doing in our hearts during that time, the grief, the surrender, and the daily choice to love without controlling.

This episode is for parents walking through hard seasons with their children and for anyone learning how to remain tender without chasing outcomes.

Together, we consider how God may be working on both sides of the road, shaping not only the child who struggles, but the parent who waits. It's a gentle, reflective Hope in the Hard conversation about trust, timing, and how we are learning to love faithfully in the middle.

If you’d like to partner with us and support the podcast, consider sponsoring an upcoming episode by making a donation of any size to Parenting Through the Hard [by clicking here].

Your support keeps this podcast running — and goes directly toward production costs and continuing this mission.

For more resources and hope-filled tools, visit parentingthroughthehard.com

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a replacement for professional counseling or medical guidance.

The Long Middle: Parenting a Child Struggling with Addiction

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 10:03:00 GMT

In this episode, I share honestly about the early days when recovery enters the conversation, a season that feels both hopeful and fragile at the same time. I talk about the complicated emotions parents carry when the crisis quiets, the grief that can surface alongside relief, and what it means to stay connected to your child without guarantees.

I reflect on why I think it might be hard for families to speak openly about addiction, the fear many children carry of disappointing the people they love, and the quiet tension parents live with as they try to hold hope without hardening.

This conversation is not about quick fixes or tidy endings. It is about staying present, rooted in love and relationship, when the road ahead still feels long. If you are a parent navigating recovery, change, or uncertainty and trying to hold hope while honoring your own limits, this episode is for you.

Hope in the Hard: Turning Toward the Light

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 10:03:02 GMT

In this episode, I reflect on how fear, isolation, and discouragement can quietly shape the way we show up as parents during hard seasons.

I share what I’m learning about staying connected, turning toward the light, and noticing small signs of movement and hope, even when nothing seems to be changing yet.

Hope, Disappointment, and Learning to Stay: Parenting Through Addiction’s In-Between

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 10:05:02 GMT

In this episode, I share honestly about the cycle of hope and disappointment that often comes with loving a child through addiction, and the hard, quiet work of learning how to stay when the story isn’t resolved yet.

If you’d like to partner with us and support the podcast, consider sponsoring an upcoming episode by making a donation of any size to Parenting Through the Hard [by clicking here].

Your support keeps this podcast running — and goes directly toward production costs and continuing this mission.

For more resources and hope-filled tools, visit parentingthroughthehard.com

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a replacement for professional counseling or medical guidance.

Hope in the Hard: The Practice of Letting it Be (Unresolved)

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 10:01:04 GMT

This Hope in the Hard continues last week’s conversation about loving a child through addiction. I’m sharing honestly from the middle of the uncertainty that comes after trying to let go and the quiet work of loving without controlling the outcome.

If you’d like to partner with us and support the podcast, consider sponsoring an upcoming episode by making a donation of any size to Parenting Through the Hard [by clicking here].

Your support keeps this podcast running — and goes directly toward production costs and continuing this mission.

For more resources and hope-filled tools, visit parentingthroughthehard.com

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a replacement for professional counseling or medical guidance.

Loving Through Addiction and Uncertainty: Letting it Be Without Giving Up

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 10:03:00 GMT

For years, I tried to fix what was hurting my child by offering advice, solutions, even ultimatums. But none of it worked. It only built walls. In this episode, I share what it’s looked like to lay down control and choose presence instead. It’s raw, honest, and rooted in the belief that our greatest purpose as parents isn’t to fix it’s to be a faithful, grace-filled presence in the middle of the mess. You can find the journal prompts mentioned I've been working through here.

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a replacement for professional counseling or medical guidance.

If you’d like to partner with us and support the podcast, consider sponsoring an upcoming episode by making a donation of any size to Parenting Through the Hard [by clicking here].

Your support keeps this podcast running and goes directly toward production costs and continuing this mission.

For more resources and hope-filled tools, visit parentingthroughthehard.com

Hope in the Hard: Would Understanding Change Everything?

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 10:04:00 GMT

Lately, I’ve been paying attention to the moments when conversations with my big kids feel tense, guarded, or harder than they need to be, and what might be underneath that.

In this Hope in the Hard reflection, I share a personal story about a small but meaningful shift I’m practicing as a parent, and why it’s changing the way I think about connection, boundaries, and growth.

This episode is a gentle pause. An invitation to notice what happens when we stop managing the outcome and start listening more closely.

If you’d like to partner with us and support the podcast, consider sponsoring an upcoming episode by making a donation of any size to Parenting Through the Hard [by clicking here].

Your support keeps this podcast running — and goes directly toward production costs and continuing this mission.

For more resources and hope-filled tools, visit parentingthroughthehard.com

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a replacement for professional counseling or medical guidance.

WHY IS THIS STILL SO HARD? For the parent who thought they’d be past this by now.

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 10:04:00 GMT

In this episode, I reflect on starting a new year feeling tired, stuck, and unsure how to move forward as a parent. I share how my practice of choosing a word for the year helped me reframe what it means to begin again—without pressure, perfection, or forcing progress.

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a replacement for professional counseling or medical guidance.

If you’d like to partner with us and support the podcast, consider sponsoring an upcoming episode by making a donation of any size to Parenting Through the Hard [by clicking here].

Your support keeps this podcast running and goes directly toward production costs and continuing this mission.

For more resources and hope-filled tools, visit parentingthroughthehard.com

Hope in the Hard: Making All Things New

Sun, 28 Dec 2025 10:03:00 GMT

As this year comes to a close, I sat down to record what I thought would be a simple 7-minute Hope in the Hard reflection… but once I began, I realized this message needed more space. So today’s episode is a little longer — a gentle, unhurried conversation about looking back, letting go, and noticing the new thing God may already be growing beneath the surface.

If you’d like to partner with us and support the podcast, consider sponsoring an upcoming episode by making a donation of any size to Parenting Through the Hard [by clicking here].

Your support keeps this podcast running — and goes directly toward production costs and continuing this mission.

For more resources and hope-filled tools, visit parentingthroughthehard.com

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a replacement for professional counseling or medical guidance.

Hope in the Hard: When Hope Comes Quietly

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 10:02:00 GMT

In this special Christmas Hope in the Hard reflection, I’m sharing some tender thoughts about finding peace in the quieter moments of the season — the ones that don’t always feel “merry and bright.”

If you’d like to partner with us and support the podcast, consider sponsoring an upcoming episode by making a donation of any size to Parenting Through the Hard [by clicking here].

Your support keeps this podcast running — and goes directly toward production costs and continuing this mission.

For more resources and hope-filled tools, visit parentingthroughthehard.com

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a replacement for professional counseling or medical guidance.

Holidays in the Hard: A Story of Hope for the Fractured Family

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 10:00:00 GMT

The holidays have always felt magical. But over time, and through hard seasons, they often felt more like survival. In this episode, I share honestly about what it’s looked like to navigate fractured family dynamics, quiet grief, and the slow work of healing. Even when it’s messy, love still matters. This episode explores how we as parents can hold onto hope and faith during the holidays, even in seasons marked by heartache, separation, or uncertainty.

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a replacement for professional counseling or medical guidance.

If you’d like to partner with us and support the podcast, consider sponsoring an upcoming episode by making a donation of any size to Parenting Through the Hard [by clicking here].

Your support keeps this podcast running — and goes directly toward production costs and continuing this mission.

For more resources and hope-filled tools, visit parentingthroughthehard.com

Is It Okay to Grieve the Life I Imagined for My Child?

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 10:04:00 GMT

What do you do when the life you dreamed for your child collides with the choices they’ve made? When the future you pictured seems to slip out of reach, it can leave you aching with a grief no one prepares parents for.

In this episode, I share the raw story of discovering my teen’s hidden struggles, the shock and heartbreak that followed, and the truth I’ve learned walking beside countless moms facing their own detours. Together, we’ll talk about why grief is not failure but love in its rawest form, why we so often resist it, and the surprising strength that begins to grow once we’ve given grief the space it deserves.

If you’ve ever whispered, “I don’t know how to do this,” this conversation is for you.

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a replacement for professional counseling or medical guidance.

If you’d like to partner with us and support the podcast, consider sponsoring an upcoming episode by making a donation of any size to Parenting Through the Hard [by clicking here].

Your support keeps this podcast running — and goes directly toward production costs and continuing this mission.

For more resources and hope-filled tools, visit parentingthroughthehard.com

Hope in the Hard: When Loving My Child Feels Heavy

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 10:00:00 GMT

In this Hope in the Hard reflection, I talk about the seasons when love itself feels heavy, when caring deeply for our teens or grown children begins to feel more like carrying than connecting. As I reflect on my own journey, I’ve noticed how easy it is to hold on to things that were never ours to carry, and how setting that weight down can make room for grace, trust, and gentler love. This episode is an invitation to breathe, to surrender the heaviness, and to remember that love was never meant to crush us — it was meant to connect us.

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a replacement for professional counseling or medical guidance.

If you’d like to partner with us and support the podcast, consider sponsoring an upcoming episode by making a donation of any size to Parenting Through the Hard [by clicking here].

Your support keeps this podcast running — and goes directly toward production costs and continuing this mission.

For more resources and hope-filled tools, visit parentingthroughthehard.com

The Compulsion to Fix My Child—and What It’s Costing Me

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 10:04:00 GMT

Do you ever feel that automatic pull to fix things for your teen or adult child, especially when their struggle triggers something tender or fearful in you? I feel that tug in my parenting all the time.

In this episode, I’m sharing some of what I’m learning about the hidden cost of rescuing, why the urge feels so strong, and a small practice that’s helping me (little by little) stay close without taking over.

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a replacement for professional counseling or medical guidance.

If you’d like to partner with us and support the podcast, consider sponsoring an upcoming episode by making a donation of any size to Parenting Through the Hard [by clicking here].

Your support keeps this podcast running — and goes directly toward production costs and continuing this mission.

For more resources and hope-filled tools, visit parentingthroughthehard.com

Hope in the Hard: Permission to Rest

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 10:02:00 GMT

Join me for seven peaceful minutes to slow down, breathe, and rediscover hope, grace, and meaning in the middle of real life.

If you’ve ever ended the day completely drained and wondered why rest still feels out of reach, this one’s for you. In this short Hope in the Hard segment, I’m sharing some honest thoughts about what real rest looks like, not the kind that comes from scrolling or zoning out, but the kind that fills us back up from the inside out. Consider this your gentle challenge to find a few moments of true rest this week, the kind that lets your soul breathe again.

Parenting Through the Doubt: Is My Best Enough?

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 10:02:00 GMT

You’re doing your best — but still not sure if it’s enough?

Friend, same! In this episode, we’ll talk about how to quiet the noise, reconnect with your inner wisdom, and parent from a place of love instead of fear.

You’ll walk away with a simple practice to help you check in with yourself and respond with clarity — even when emotions run high.

🛠️ Includes: The “3-Minute Heart Check” tool + journal prompts

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a replacement for professional counseling or medical guidance.

If you’d like to partner with us and support the podcast, consider sponsoring an upcoming episode by making a donation of any size to Parenting Through the Hard [by clicking here].

Your support keeps this podcast running — and goes directly toward production costs and continuing this mission.

For more resources and hope-filled tools, visit parentingthroughthehard.com

Hope in the Hard: Finding Beauty in the Ordinary

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 10:01:00 GMT

In this Hope in the Hard reflection, I talk about finding beauty in the ordinary moments of everyday life — especially for parents walking through hard seasons with their teens or grown children. It’s a gentle reminder that healing often happens in quiet, simple ways, not dramatic ones. Join me for seven peaceful minutes to slow down, breathe, and rediscover hope, grace, and meaning in the middle of real life.

Soft Serve Parenting: Can Control & Love Coexist?

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 09:00:00 GMT

When our kids make choices that scare or disappoint us, it’s tempting to tighten our grip. But control and love can’t coexist. In this episode, I explore the raw struggle of letting go..why it feels so painful, how fear keeps us stuck, and what it looks like to release control without abandoning our children or losing ourselves.

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a replacement for professional counseling or medical guidance.

If you’d like to partner with us and support the podcast, consider sponsoring an upcoming episode by making a donation of any size to Parenting Through the Hard by clicking here.

Your support keeps this podcast running—and all donations go directly toward production costs and helping to continue this mission.

For more resources, encouragement, and ways to walk this journey together, visit parentingthroughthehard.com. You’ll find tools, workshops, and hope-filled conversations to remind you that you’re not alone.

Hope in the Hard: When You Don’t Know What to Pray

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 09:04:02 GMT

This week, I’m introducing something new—short Hope in the Hard reflections in between our regular podcast episodes. These are simple, honest moments to pause and reconnect. In this first one, I talk about prayer when you have no words, and how silence can still be sacred.

When the Storm is Loud: Reconnecting with Love

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 09:00:00 GMT

In the middle of parenting teens and young adults, it's so easy to lose myself in the storm—caught between my children’s needs, my expectations, and the constant fear of what might go wrong. In this episode, I invite you into a quiet, honest conversation about what happens when we lose our inner voice—and how we can return to it through love, faith, and connection.

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please remember this podcast is not a replacement for professional counseling or medical guidance.

If you’d like to partner with us and support the podcast, consider sponsoring an upcoming episode by making a donation of any size to Parenting Through the Hard by clicking here.

Your support keeps this podcast running—and all donations go directly toward production costs and helping to continue this mission.

The Chapter I Didn’t Choose, but Couldn’t Ignore

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 10:00:00 GMT

After a year and a half away from the mic, I’m stepping back into this space with a story I never expected to tell. Two days after releasing my last episode, my mom—who loved me with steady, unconditional love..passed away.

Grief and parenting through hard seasons have reshaped me in ways I couldn’t have imagined. They’ve taught me that control was never the answer, faith had to become part of the story, and showing up authentically means naming the mess as much as the beauty.

This relaunch episode is dedicated to my mom, and it marks a new chapter for Parenting Through the Hard, one rooted in honesty, hope, and grace.

Disclaimer: The thoughts shared here come from my own parenting and faith journey. Please note that this podcast is not a substitute for professional counseling or medical advice.

If you’d like to partner with us and support the podcast, consider sponsoring an upcoming episode by making a donation of any size to Parenting Through the Hard [by clicking here].

Your support keeps this podcast running and goes directly toward production costs, allowing us to continue our mission.

For more resources and hope-filled tools, visit parentingthroughthehard.com

Searching for Hope After Losing My Mom: Taking Time to Grieve

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 10:00:00 GMT

As I navigate through a deeply personal and challenging time, today's episode signifies a monumental shift in my life, one that I know will leave a lasting impact. In the midst of this, I've made the decision to take a break from recording to focus on being present with my family. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Am I on the Right Parenting Path with my Teen?

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 11:00:00 GMT

Have you ever found yourself trying to do all the right things with your child, pouring all your love and so, so much energy into parenting, only to start to question if you are even on the right path? Sometimes, even our best intentions can steer us off course.

In this episode, we cover:

An audiobook revelation that challenged my perspective on parenting.
The comparison trap we often fall into as parents.
Reevaluation of societal norms
Parental pressure and guilt
Three things to think about if you are struggling with your teen

Click here if you are interested in receiving information about the opportunity to join an online support group with other moms who "get it".

👉If the link doesn't work (technology 🙄), you can also find my email listed below.

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About Through The Hard:
"Through The Hard," originally titled Unyielding, is presented by Pathways to Hope Network—a parent-led non-profit organization committed to providing free support and nurturing a sense of community for parents navigating the challenges of teens in crisis.

Explore Additional Support:

SCHEDULE a time to meet with me by clicking here
EXPLORE our website: Pathways to Hope Network (Subscribe for once-a-week encouragement💙)
ACCESS local and national resources: Pathways Resources
READ more on our blog: Pathways Blog
FIND answers to common questions: Pathways FAQ

Connect with Us:

JOIN our community on Facebook: Through the Hard Facebook
For questions, reach out via email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

Reframing Your Parental Fears to Serve You

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 11:00:00 GMT

Are you exhausted, barely keeping your head above water, wondering if the next wave of fear will be the wave that finally takes you out? Well, friend, reframing is one powerful way you can start to protect your peace.

In this episode, we cover:

How discomfort is a part of every decision we make as parents.
How trying a new parenting approach involves confronting pain and discomfort, questioning ourselves, and pushing through doubt.
How each fear we experience presents an opportunity to overcome challenges, build resilience, and deepen self-understanding.
Our tendency to join the "crazy train" of fear-driven thoughts and actions.
All the different roles we play as a parent and the ONE we don't.
A fear mapping process I use to help me reframe my perspective and navigate challenges when I'm stuck in fear.

Click here to have my Fear Mapping PDF sent to your email inbox.
👉Remember, it will take a few minutes to hit your inbox (check your spam folder if you don't see it).

___________________________________________________________________________

About Through The Hard:
"Through The Hard," originally titled Unyielding, is proudly presented by Pathways to Hope Network—a parent-led non-profit organization committed to providing free support and nurturing a sense of community for parents navigating the challenges of teens in crisis.

Explore Additional Support:

SCHEDULE a time to meet with me by clicking here
DELVE into our website: Pathways to Hope Network (Subscribe for weekly encouragement)
ACCESS local and national resources: Pathways Resources
READ more on our blog: Pathways Blog
FIND answers to common questions: Pathways FAQ

Connect with Us:

JOIN our community on Facebook: Pathways to Hope Network Facebook
STAY connected on Instagram: Pathways to Hope Network Instagram
For questions, reach out via email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

Breaking the Cycle: Parenting Teens with Love in the Face of Fear

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 11:00:00 GMT

In today's episode, we are going to take a look at some common fear triggers. How many of them resonate with you? We'll discuss the vicious cycle of fear, and what I've learned about the role of mirror neurons in my relationship with my teen. I'll also share some ways that I've been trying to break the cycle of fear in my own life & improve communication with my teens and adult children.
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Explore Additional Support:

SCHEDULE a time to meet with me by clicking here
DELVE into our website: Pathways to Hope Network (Subscribe for weekly encouragement)
ACCESS local and national resources: Pathways Resources
READ insightful articles on our blog: Pathways Blog
FIND answers to common queries: Pathways FAQ

Connect with Us:

JOIN our community on Facebook: Pathways to Hope Network Facebook
STAY connected on Instagram: Pathways to Hope Network Instagram
For personalized support, reach out via email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

Nurturing the Nurturer: Reclaiming Yourself Amidst the Challenge of Parenting Your Teen

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 11:00:00 GMT

As we step into a new year, there's NO BETTER TIME to kickstart healthy habits and cultivate self-compassion.

In this special rerun of Episode 32, we revisit an insightful discussion with Megan Dahlman, a Certified Trainer, Nutrition Coach, and mom of boys. Megan shares invaluable insights for moms navigating challenging seasons of chaos and uncertainty, emphasizing the crucial first steps on their self-compassion journey.

Key Takeaways:

Initiating Self-Care: Megan guides us through the initial steps moms can take to prioritize self-care amid chaotic circumstances.
Unexpected Benefits: Discover the unforeseen positive outcomes that emerge when you invest energy in your healing journey.
The Mind-Body Connection: Explore the significant role your body plays in influencing your mental health and overall well-being.

Links from the Original Episode:

YouTube channel: VigeoFit YouTube
Instagram: Megan Dahlman's Instagram
FREE Jumpstart Tips: VigeoFit Jumpstart Tips
Jumpstart 30 Course: VigeoFit Jumpstart Course

___________________________________________________________________________

About Through The Hard:
"Through The Hard" is proudly presented by Pathways to Hope Network—an empathetic non-profit organization committed to providing free support and nurturing a sense of community for parents navigating the challenges of teens in crisis.

Explore Additional Support:

Delve into our website: Pathways to Hope Network (Subscribe for weekly encouragement)
Access local and national resources: Pathways Resources
Read insightful articles on our blog: Pathways Blog
Find answers to common queries: Pathways FAQ

Connect with Us:

Join our community on Facebook: Pathways to Hope Network Facebook
Stay connected on Instagram: Pathways to Hope Network Instagram
For personalized support, reach out via email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

Closing the Chapter: My Favorite Moments on Parenting Teens Through the Hard

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 11:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the final episode of 2023, where we take a reflective journey through some of my favorite clips of Through the Hard and Unyielding.

Join us as we revisit the memorable moments and lessons learned.....
Segment 1: Episode 10 Moving Through the Unknown with Purpose
Segment 2: Episode 27 Embracing Imperfection: Why You Need to Let Go of the Need to Fix Your Teen
Segment 3: Episode 12 What No One Tells You About Youth Probation
Segment 4: Episode 37 React Less, Respond More: Parenting Tips for Mindful Communication
Segment 5: Episode 35 The Role of Self-Reflection in the Healing Process
Segment 6: Episode 13 When the Challenge Changes You - Blake's Story
Segment 7: Episode 41 The Learning Curve: Stage 2 of Learning to Parent a Teen in Crisis
Segment 8: Episode 38 Connection vs. Control: Finding the Right Balance in Your Parenting Approach

As we close this chapter, I'd like to extend my sincerest thanks for allowing me to be a small part of your parenting journey. May the coming year bring joy, discovery, and shared wisdom.

Thank you for being a part of our podcast community. Wishing you hope and healing in the year ahead!

___________________________________________________________________________

About Through The Hard:
"Through The Hard" ,originally titled Unyielding, is proudly presented by Pathways to Hope Network—an empathetic non-profit organization committed to providing free support and nurturing a sense of community for parents navigating the challenges of teens in crisis.

Explore Additional Support:

Delve into our website: Pathways to Hope Network (Subscribe for weekly encouragement)
Access local and national resources: Pathways Resources
Read insightful articles on our blog: Pathways Blog
Find answers to common queries: Pathways FAQ

Connect with Us:

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How to find Strength and Resilience as You Parent Your Teen

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 11:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Through the Hard, we dive into the topic of control and over-functioning in parenting. It's something many of us struggle with, and it can have negative effects on our teens. I often find myself in that same place, trying to control every aspect of my teen's life, thinking it is the best way to protect them. But I'm learning that it's so important to find a balance. Our teens need some freedom to make their own choices and learn from their mistakes.

That's where the concept of balanced oversight comes in. Finding that sweet spot between being too controlling and not being involved enough. Providing guidance and support without taking over their lives. Listen as we discuss seven practical tips to help you practice finding a balance between control and your own freedom. It won't happen overnight, but patience and practice can create a healthier dynamic with your teen.

Resources mentioned in the podcast:

Article by Dr. Amy Johnson: Don't Make it Happen, Allow it to Happen

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About Through The Hard:
"Through The Hard" is proudly presented by Pathways to Hope Network—an empathetic non-profit organization committed to providing free support and nurturing a sense of community for parents navigating the challenges of teens in crisis.

Explore Additional Support:

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Balanced Oversight: Navigating Parental Control and Teen Independence

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 20:10:00 GMT

Resources mentioned in the podcast:

Article by Dr. Amy Johnson: Don't Make it Happen, Allow it to Happen

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Seasons of Strength: A Journey Through Holiday Challenges

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 14:57:01 GMT

Today's Parenting Teens Through the Hard episode is a heartfelt throwback from last year.

We're diving into the challenges we all face during the holiday season while caring for a teen in crisis. Your experiences and emotions are valid, and we're here to explore them with compassion and understanding. Join us as we discuss the many conflicting emotions we experience and offer a few suggestions on how to approach setting boundaries, avoiding problematic gifts, planning how to handle difficult conversations, and creating new traditions to bring joy. Despite the hardships we are experiencing, this holiday season is still an opportunity to find moments of peace, reflect on what's important, and remember that your efforts in being there for your child are remarkable and truly make a difference.

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Courage to Connect: How Vulnerability Strengthens Parent-Teen Relationships

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 11:00:00 GMT

Friend, today, we're going to delve into a topic that might tug at the heartstrings a bit – the profound importance of vulnerability in parenting, particularly during these challenging teenage years.

Together, we'll dive a little deeper into this concept I like to call "heart talk." A gentle, intimate dialogue rooted in trust and authenticity, a space where we can really connect with our teens. Because, you see, parenting during these years can be quite a tender journey.

You and I are going to explore those areas where our teens find it tough to open up to us. It's a reminder for us, as parents, to acknowledge our own imperfections, set expectations that are filled with compassion, and, most importantly, honor the boundaries our teens set.

Our teens are navigating a maze of changes and challenges, and we have the opportunity to be a comforting presence – a lighthouse guiding them through the waves. It's a call for us to understand that vulnerability isn't a weakness; it's a strength that fosters profound connections.

Let's embrace the reality that parenting teenagers is no easy feat. Through the mist of discomfort, we are learning to be there for our teens with open hearts and arms.

So, mama, let's gently step into the realm of vulnerability. Let's open up those channels of communication, even if it feels heavy. Because in those quiet, somber conversations lies the potential for healing and understanding.
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About Through The Hard:
"Through The Hard" is proudly presented by Pathways to Hope Network—an empathetic non-profit organization committed to providing free support and nurturing a sense of community for parents navigating the challenges of teens in crisis.

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Heart Talk: Parent-Teen Conversations that Count

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 10:00:00 GMT

In episode 48, we're diving into a topic that's pretty important on this parenting journey through the hard: talking openly and genuinely with our teenagers.

You know, as parents, it's crucial to get a handle on our own emotions and fears before we embark on those deep heart-to-heart chats. Think of it like learning a new dance – it takes time, understanding, and a solid connection.

In this episode, I've got some down-to-earth strategies to share to help you get closer to having deeper conversations with your teens. We're also gonna chat about the whole influence-versus-control deal – trust me, it's a game-changer.

And because some of us may need a little more help, I've got a cool resource for you. Listen to find out how you can snag a free PDF loaded with journal prompts designed to get you ready for those heart-to-heart talks. Plus, stay tuned for an upcoming workshop where we'll tackle those fears head-on while learning from each other's stories and experiences.

⚡Sign up for our FREE Workshop 4 Principles for Fighting Fear on November 9th here!

💙 For your free Heart Talk Prompts, email me at afrey.pathways@gmail.com

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Parenting Unmasked: Breaking Free from the Chains of Fear

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 10:00:00 GMT

In Episode 47, I give you an inside glimpse of the content for Day 1 of our recent workshop on The Four Principles for Fighting Fear, specifically in the context of parenting teenagers. As a parent, I understand how fear can sometimes hinder our ability to parent our teens effectively. That's why I want to share a personal "cheat code" for managing fear and becoming a more confident parent.

You see, parental fear is often rooted in love. We want the best for our teenagers, and we worry about their well-being. But sometimes, this fear can hold us back from making the right decisions or giving our teens the freedom they need to grow.

Learn to identify and understand your own fear triggers - the situations or thoughts that make you feel the most fearful as a parent. By recognizing these triggers, we can start to address them head-on.

Join me as we explore ways to fight fear and become more effective parents to our teenagers. Together, we can create a nurturing and supportive environment while giving us the peace of mind we deserve.

⚡Sign up for Day 2 of our FREE Workshop 4 Principles for Fighting Fear on November 9th here!
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Connecting Through Conversation: Navigating the Shifting Landscape of Parent-Teen Communication

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 20:00:00 GMT

In this episode of our podcast "Parenting Teens Through the Hard," we are talking about the importance of understanding the changing dynamics of communication with our teens and how crucial it is for us to adapt.

We all know that our teens are heavily influenced by their peers, technology, and social media. However, it's essential for us to remember that our voices still hold immense value in their lives. We need to find ways to connect and communicate effectively with them.

A key aspect we focus on is modeling healthy communication and empathy. Empathy acts as the anchor line that connects us in our communication with our teens. By understanding their perspective and showing empathy, we can build a stronger bond with them.

Today's teens face numerous challenges and pressures, and it's our responsibility as parents to provide understanding and empathy. We need to create an environment where they feel safe to open up and share their thoughts and feelings.

Building trust and open communication is vital. So, let's embark on this journey together, exploring the world of communication with our teens. By adapting to the changing dynamics, understanding the generation gap, and practicing empathy, we can strengthen our relationships and guide our teens through the hard times.

Register for the 4 Principles for Fighting Fear workshop HERE

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Time to Get the "F" Out: The Journey from Hurt Parent to Healed Parent

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 10:00:00 GMT

"What will you pursue in the middle of this mess that might somehow justify all your suffering?"

In this episode, we are opening our eyes to one of the biggest struggles we experience as parents of teenagers or young adults in crisis. Whether we are dealing with teen behavior issues, addiction, failing grades in high school, manipulation, or isolation, there is a heaviness that creeps in around us with no intention of leaving anytime soon.

Join us as we discuss how we go from hurt parents to healed parents and learn about a unique opportunity coming to you in October 2023!

Timestamps:
The challenges of parenting teens in crisis [00:00:02]
Discussion on the difficulties parents face when their teens are in crisis and the importance of a supportive community.

The role of fear in parenting [00:01:26]
Exploration of how fear can dictate our actions as parents and lead to constant stress and anxiety.

The pressure to fix everything and fear of failure [00:02:53]
Discussion on the pressure parents feel to find solutions to their child's problems and the fear of failure that comes with it.

The need for a supportive community [00:15:20]
Emphasizes the importance of having a supportive community to help navigate challenges and overcome fear in parenting.

The upcoming four-week online workshop [00:17:02]
Introducing an upcoming workshop focused on four foundation principles to help parents operate from a place of calm and healing.

Shifting away from control and finding purpose in suffering [00:19:33]
Encouraging listeners to shift their mindset away from control and view their experiences as opportunities for growth and purpose in their lives and the lives of their children.

Register for the 4 Principles for Fighting Fear workshop HERE

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Explore Additional Support:

Delve into our website: Pathways to Hope Network (Subscribe for weekly encouragement)
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From Seed to Harvest: Finding Peace in The Process of Parenting Teens

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 10:00:00 GMT

Hey Sis! Ever think about parenting teens like you're tending a garden? Well, that's what we're getting into in this episode – 'cause, let's face it, our kids are a bit like flowers. They bloom when they're ready, in their own sweet time.

We're just here to play the gardener, you know? Nurturing, observing, and maybe doing a bit of waiting.

This summer, as I strolled around my yard, checking out how each plant was doing, it hit me how much parenting teens can feel like tending a garden. And guess what? I had to spill the beans (or should I say seeds?) with you.

Come hang out with us as we chat about:

Your child’s zone: Respecting their own growth timeline.
Starting at ground level: Embracing those foundational moments.
How to soften the seed: Creating the right conditions for growth.
The DANGERS of overwatering: Yep, finding that sweet balance.
Getting to the roots: Digging into what really matters for your teens.

I'm keeping it laid-back and sharing insights to help you navigate the ups and downs of parenting teens. So, grab your favorite beverage, kick back, and let's chat about growing up together, one seed at a time.

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The Learning Curve: Final Stage of Learning to Parent a Teen in Crisis

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 10:00:00 GMT

"As we heal the parts of us that, even in the midst of chaos, need to grieve over the loss of the family we dreamed would be ours, we get better at parenting. We learn to be ok with holding the reins a little looser because holding them tight never seems to bring our child closer. And through this beautiful process of losing and finding, we stumble upon our sweet spot."

In today’s episode, we discuss the 4th and final stage of learning. At this stage, our skills are developing and becoming ingrained in us through repetition. They begin to line up with what feels right to us. Our actions and reactions, even if they don’t always yield the results we hope for, are more incongruent with what’s important to us, and it starts to feel more natural and effortless.

Join us to learn more about….

Stage 4: Unconscious Competence.
Parenting and Shepherding - what they have in common.
The growth required of us.

Links from today's show:

Dr. Russell Barkley: 30 Essential Ideas Every Parent Needs to Know (Parents of ADHD Children)

Skills of a Shepherd by Kim Gooding

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The Learning Curve: Stage 3 of Learning to Parent a Teen in Crisis

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 10:00:00 GMT

“Parenting is not your purpose. It’s preparing you for your purpose.”

We often make the learning process more complicated than necessary because of the negative feelings we experience when as parents, we make mistakes. Ironically, not doing it right and making mistakes are actually vital steps in the learning process.

In today’s episode, we are moving on to explore conscious competence parenting, which is stage 3 of any learning process.

Join us to learn more about….

Stage 3: Conscious Competence.
How to tell when you’ve reached stage 3.
Two benefits you’ll experience.
A few tips on what to practice at this level.

Links from today's show:

Gary Thomas’ book Sacred Parenting: How Raising Children Shapes Our Souls

Dr. Becky Bailey

Dr. Becky Bailey YouTube

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The Learning Curve: Stage 2 of Learning to Parent a Teen in Crisis

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 10:00:00 GMT

Show-notes Episode 41

Title: The Learning Curve: Stage 2 of Learning to Parent a Teen in Crisis

“Awareness is the first step in healing.”
Dean Ornish

Today’s episode is another bite sized episode, perfect for a quick walk around the neighborhood. The second of our mini series on the four stages we go through as we learn to parent a teen in crisis. These stages take us through the learning curve we face as we develop the skills needed in order to feel more confident in our parenting abilities.

In this episode, we explore conscious incompetence parenting, which is stage 2 of the learning process and I’ll give you a few tips on how to become more effective during this stage of parenting.

Join us to learn more about….

Stage 2: Conscious Incompetence
How to tell when you’ve reached stage 2
The beautiful element added to our journey once we reach this stage
Tips to help you move through this stage effectively and more

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The Learning Curve: Stage 1 of Learning to Parent a Teen in Crisis

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 10:00:00 GMT

“Do the best you can until you know better. Then, when you know better, do better.”

Hey….You made it! I wondered if you would find the time this week, friend. I know that right now, you are juggling all the things, and finding a little time to shut off the chatter in your brain is challenging.

Today’s episode is bite-sized. Just about 20 mins from beginning to end to kick off a little mini-series we are doing on the four stages we go through as we learn to parent a teen in crisis. These stages take us through the learning curve we face as we develop the skills needed in order to feel more confident in our parenting abilities.

Join us to learn more about….

Stage 1: Unconscious Incompetence
The common feelings we experience
The challenges we face.
Helpful tips to get through stage 1 and more...

Below are links from todays show:

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ParenTEENg Decisions: The #1 Factor That Should Be Guiding Them

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 10:00:00 GMT

“Everyone we meet is both our student and our teacher.”

Today’s episode is a countdown of the four factors that guide our parenting decisions. Together we talk about the benefits & challenges that we experience with each one of these factors.

Join us to learn more about….

Family dynamics in parenting.
Peer Influence
The Benefits of Book and Media
On-the-job training and more.

In this podcast episode, we discuss the anxieties and insecurities we face in our parenting journey and introduce the primary factors that should guide parenting decisions and three other influential factors. We emphasize the importance of learning from our own parents, observing others, and seeking support during challenging times & also highlight the significance of on-the-job training in parenting as a continuous learning process.

Parenting Books and Resources:

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Connection vs. Control: Finding the Right Balance in Your Parenting Approach

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 13:00:00 GMT

“Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.”
Carl Jung

“And every day, the world will drag you by the hand, yelling, “This is important! And this is important! And this is important! You need to worry about this! And this! And this!” And each day, it’s up to you to yank your hand back, put it on your heart, and say, “No. This is what’s important.”
Iain Thomas

In today's episode, we talk about the important roles that connection and control play in our relationship with our teens. With control seeming to be our default as parents, it’s important that we stop and ask ourselves what it might be costing us. Listen along as we dive into the SUPERPOWER most of us aren’t utilizing in our parenting game and how to begin activating it.

Learn more about….

A recent poll I took asking parents with adult children what they would do differently.
The three layers of behavior change.
Who you'd like to become in this season.
The difference between control and connection.
How to shift the things you are focusing on.

Remember, you’re child is no longer the project; you are.

Practice this for the next two weeks, and let me know how it’s going:

Spend a few days challenging yourself to focus on the positive (however small it may be) vs. the negative. The negative things shout and demand our attention, so they are easy to spot. Be a studier of the positive. Look for them and take the time to be grateful for them. Trust me; they are there.
Spend a few days focusing on working together to solve a problem with your teen vs. confrontation and control, which only leads to defiance.
Spend a few days documenting the 1% improvements you made during the day.

Links from the show:

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React Less, Respond More: Parenting Tips for Mindful Communication

Tue, 30 May 2023 10:00:00 GMT

Sometimes it can feel like we are full-time firefighters. We rush from one crisis to the next, never really fixing problems, just trying to slow down the spread.

Today we talk about the difference between reacting and responding and give you some practical advice on how you can begin the process of being more mindful of the things that are important to you in your relationship with your teen.

Learn more about …

How urgency has a tendency to overthrow the things that are really important to us.
How to identify when you are reacting and when you are responding.
How control is costing you connection.
How to respond when you feel yourself in reactivity mode.
The barriers that will present themselves as you work towards responding to your teen more than reacting.

Practice getting out of reactivity mode and into response mode for the next two weeks by following the steps below:

Hit pause and focus on breathing.
“I want to learn to handle this well; I will do nothing until I have calmed down.” "I want to handle this well" Phone Wallpaper
Once calm, grab a sheet of paper and write down the following:
- What happened?
- What’s the impact/fear?
- What might happen next?
- What is the desired outcome?
- What actions should be taken?

Let me know how it's going by sending a DM on social media or an email using the email listed below.
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Parenting Through the Storm: Self-Care and Friendship in Teen Crisis

Tue, 16 May 2023 10:00:00 GMT

"Friendship is a key coping mechanism for life’s tougher moments 💙"

In this final episode of our series on self-compassion, we're delving into one of the most cherished ways to practice self-care when you have a teen in crisis—spending time with friends.

Fact: The importance of self-care and the support of friends cannot be overstated.

Joining me in this conversation is my very best friend, Tonya. Together, we unwind and share insights on why friendship becomes our lifeline in the challenging journey of parenting teens in crisis.

Discover how:

This challenging season is not your forever—it's a part of your learning and growth.
Being with friends rekindles our joy, providing essential moments of respite.
Friendship acts as an anchor during life’s storms, offering support and understanding.
Time spent with friends becomes one of the most effective ways to decompress amid crisis.
We emphasize the significance of setting two standing dates a month, prioritizing self-care and friendship in the midst of parenting challenges.

Tune in as we unravel the vital role of self-care and friendship when parenting teens in crisis. Remember, you're not alone in this journey; together, we can find solace and strength.

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The Role of Self Reflection in the Healing Process

Tue, 02 May 2023 13:00:00 GMT

"Journaling is simply thinking through your fingers 💙"

Join us for the second part of my enlightening interview with Leif Holmes as we delve deeper into the profound connection between journaling and self-compassion. In this episode, we candidly explore the personal benefits we've experienced through journaling, the obstacles that sometimes hinder this practice, and the crucial steps to take when life's storms begin to roll in.

Key Insights:

Gain a fresh perspective: We often see only 10% of the problem; discover how journaling unveils the remaining 90%, offering clarity and insight.
Honor your experiences: Journaling becomes a powerful tool to examine the true impact of circumstances on our well-being, allowing us to honor ourselves in the process.
Embrace the pause: In a culture of constant motion, journaling provides a space to halt, acknowledge our wounds, and actively address them.
Cultivate anticipation: The more you journal, the more you'll find yourself looking forward to this reflective practice.
Practice patience: As you embark on your journaling journey, be patient with yourself, allowing the process to unfold naturally.

Tune in for an engaging and transformative conversation with Leif Holmes as we unlock the potential of self-compassion through the profound act of journaling.

Links from today's show:

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Peaceful Parenting: Unveiling Inner Harmony Through Self-Care

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 13:00:00 GMT

“I write because I don’t know what I think until I read what I wrote” Flannery O’Connor

Join us in this week's episode as we continue to sow the seeds of self-compassion, accompanied by our insightful guest, Leif Holmes. Leif, a pastor with over 30 years of shared life experience with his wife, Laura, and raising three kids together, brings a unique perspective to our conversation.

Discover the beauty of journaling through Leif's lens—how it intertwines seamlessly with our self-care goals and the multitude of benefits he's unearthed through the practice.

Key Highlights:

Uncover the distinctive way Abraham Lincoln approached journaling, crafting his own unique version.
Explore how journaling acts as a window into the motives of our hearts, providing valuable insights.
Embrace the simplicity of journaling—don't overthink it; let it flow naturally.
Realize that journaling is not confined to writing; it takes various forms to suit individual preferences.

Tune in for an engaging discussion with Leif Holmes, where we dive into the art of journaling and extract valuable takeaways for cultivating self-compassion in our lives. This was hands-down one of my favorite conversations of the year!

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Empowered Parenting: The Vital Role of Therapy and Support Amid Teen Struggles

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 13:00:00 GMT

In our recent survey, we asked parents navigating the tumultuous journey of raising teens in crisis about their self-care practices.

Here's a glimpse into their go-to strategies:

Exercise/Physical Movement
Spending Time with Friends
Counseling/Support Groups/12 Steps
Prayer/Meditation/Journaling
Massage

Today, we're delving into result number 3—Counseling, Support Groups, or 12-step Programs and how these practices relate to parenting a teen in crisis.

Key Insights:

Holistic Support: Therapy, inclusive of counseling, support groups, and 12-step programs, serves as a comprehensive tool for nurturing parental self-care while navigating the challenges of parenting a teen in crisis.
Obstacles to Compassion: Explore the common hurdles such as guilt, access, budget constraints, shame, and overwhelm that parents of teens in crisis might face in prioritizing self-care.
Parental Resilience: Uncover the benefits of initiating therapy or counseling, gaining insights into how it contributes to building resilience and strength in the face of teen-related challenges.
Community Connection: Delve into the advantages of support groups or 12-step programs, understanding how these communal settings can provide solace and shared experiences for parents facing similar struggles.

Join us as we unravel the complexities of self-care in the context of parenting a teen in crisis, exploring therapy, support groups, and 12-step programs as invaluable tools for empowering parental resilience.

Links from today’s show:

___________________________________________________________________________

Explore Additional Support:

Delve into our website: Pathways to Hope Network (Subscribe for weekly encouragement)
Access local and national resources: Pathways Resources
Read insightful articles on our blog: Pathways Blog
Find answers to common queries: Pathways FAQ

Connect with Us:

Join our community on Facebook: Pathways to Hope Network Facebook
Stay connected on Instagram: Pathways to Hope Network Instagram
For personalized support, reach out via email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

Self Care Beyond Bubble Baths: The Role Your Body Plays in Your Mental Health

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 13:00:00 GMT

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

Show-notes Episode 32

Self-Compassion 101: Your Body

"If your compassion does not include yourself, it is incomplete." Jack Kornfield

In today's episode, Megan Dahlman, Certified Trainer, Nutrition Coach, and mom of boys, shares what she believes moms navigating a season of chaos and uncertainty should do first on their self-compassion journey.

This episode's takeaways:

First steps to taking care of yourself.
The unexpected benefits you experience from pouring more energy into your healing.
The role your body plays in your mental health
And much more….

Links from today's show:

YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@vigeofit

Instagram: www.instagram.com/Megandahlman

FREE Jumpstart Tips: www.vigeofit.com/tips

Jumpstart 30 Course: www.vigeofit.com/jumpstart

___________________________________________________________________________

About Through The Hard:

"Through The Hard" is proudly presented by Pathways to Hope Network—an empathetic non-profit organization committed to providing free support and nurturing a sense of community for parents navigating the challenges of teens in crisis.

Explore Additional Support:

Delve into our website: Pathways to Hope Network (Subscribe for weekly encouragement)
Access local and national resources: Pathways Resources
Read insightful articles on our blog: Pathways Blog
Find answers to common queries: Pathways FAQ

Connect with Us:

Join our community on Facebook: Pathways to Hope Network Facebook
Stay connected on Instagram: Pathways to Hope Network Instagram
For personalized support, reach out via email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

Self-Compassion 101: Healing on a Soul Level

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 14:00:00 GMT

Pause for a moment; there's something crucial here.

In the world of parenting a teen facing challenges, self-care isn't just a luxury—it's a lifeline. It's about showing up as the kind of mama you can be proud of, even in the midst of tough times.

When we take charge of our well-being, we free our children from the weight of our struggles. It allows them to focus on navigating their own path without the added burden of our baggage.

Life has thrown us a curveball, and instead of waiting to react based on our child's response, we're taking the lead. This is our journey, a journey that will fortify us for the battles ahead. It's about showing up the way we want to—strong, brave, and resilient.

Key Highlights:

Addressing Barriers: We'll tackle the three obstacles likely crossing your mind right now.
Leading by Example: Your self-care becomes a beacon, showcasing healthy coping skills for your teen.
Essential for All Roles: Recognizing that self-care is necessary for showing up as your best self in every role you've been entrusted with.

Join us as we embark on this journey of empowerment, providing insights and takeaways to guide mamas through resilience amid the challenges of parenting a struggling teen.

___________________________________________________________________________

About Through The Hard:

Explore Additional Support:

Delve into our website: Pathways to Hope Network (Subscribe for weekly encouragement)
Access local and national resources: Pathways Resources
Read insightful articles on our blog: Pathways Blog
Find answers to common queries: Pathways FAQ

Connect with Us:

Join our community on Facebook: Pathways to Hope Network Facebook
Stay connected on Instagram: Pathways to Hope Network Instagram
For personalized support, reach out via email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

A Look at Teen Behaviors: Conflict

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 14:00:00 GMT

Show-notes Episode 30

Title: A Look at Teen Behaviors: Conflict

Today's episode is part 3 of our 3-part series looking at some common teen behaviors that you may be witnessing in your child and diving a little into why it happens, what about it creates challenges for us, and what we can do in response.

Understanding that conflict is less about an entitled teenager or a controlling mom and more about normal friction created by two individuals who want control (whether that control comes from a place of desiring freedom or protection) helps put it into proper perspective.

This episode’s takeaways:

The conflict we experience with our child is not only normal developmentally, and it can actually benefit your relationship.
Through conflict, we have an opportunity to model healthy conflict resolution. A lifelong skill.
Conflict teaches us flexibility and how to listen.
There are two things I can do that will, 97% of the time, change the trajectory of my path with my child when we are engaged in conflict:
- Disengage to regulate my emotions
- Start digging up roots
Learning and modeling healthy conflict resolution takes practice, practice, practice.
Remember that these moments of conflict are actually key to the long-term health of the parent-child relationship, because it’s in these moments that the relationship gets reshaped to include more reciprocity and equality between the parties.

___________________________________________________________________________

About Through The Hard:

Explore Additional Support:

Delve into our website: Pathways to Hope Network (Subscribe for weekly encouragement)
Access local and national resources: Pathways Resources
Read insightful articles on our blog: Pathways Blog
Find answers to common queries: Pathways FAQ

Connect with Us:

Stay connected on Instagram: Pathways to Hope Network Instagram
For personalized support, reach out via email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

A Look at Teen Behaviors: Manipulation

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 14:00:00 GMT

Show-notes Episode 29

Title: A Look at Teen Behaviors: Manipulation

Today's episode is part 2 of a 3-part series where we will look into some common teen behaviors that you might be witnessing in your child and dive a little into why it happens, what about it creates challenges for us, and what we can do in response.

The behavior we are focusing on today is teen manipulation. Manipulation we are covering today are guilt trips, playing the victim/deflecting blame, retaliation, and anger.

This episode’s takeaways:

All behavior serves a purpose. Purpose of manipulation is to wear you down.
Manipulation is a tactic derived from a desire to self govern and make their own choices. Striving towards independence from parental control is actually considered a developmental milestone based.
Why does it bother us?
- It may feel like disrespect
- It may feel like we are being held emotionally hostage
- We feel like we are doing what is best for them
What can you do?
- Set boundaries you can keep.
- Don’t negotiate, investigate.
- Consider your bottom line and develop a broken record statement.

Resources

How Do I Handle Manipulation and Control Video by Karen Purvis and Michael Moore

___________________________________________________________________________

About Through The Hard:

Explore Additional Support:

Delve into our website: Pathways to Hope Network (Subscribe for weekly encouragement)
Access local and national resources: Pathways Resources
Read insightful articles on our blog: Pathways Blog
Find answers to common queries: Pathways FAQ

Connect with Us:

Join our community on Facebook: Pathways to Hope Network Facebook
Stay connected on Instagram: Pathways to Hope Network Instagram
For personalized support, reach out via email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

A Look at Teen Behaviors: Isolating

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 11:00:00 GMT

Today's episode is part 1 of a 3-part series where we will be looking into some common teen behaviors that you might be witnessing in your child and dive a little into you why it happens, what about it creates challenges for us, and what we can do in response.

The behavior we are focusing on today is isolating. What are some things you can do if you are concerned about isolation?

This episode’s takeaways:

Teens' brains and bodies are trying to figure out this influx of hormones, and it will take some time to work it out.
It's developmentally normal for teens to retreat from their parents and engage less. It's a practice of self-governance.
Examine your own behaviors and emotions that are triggered by your teen's actions. What can you learn about what you're feeling?
Try asking fewer questions and making more observations when your child is less than chatty.
Use technology as a way to stay connected.
Create opportunities for fun and laughter together.
Watch for warning signs of unhealthy isolation and consult a professional when you see them.

Books quoted:

The Teenage Brain

Articles studied:

Motivation and What Really Drives Human Behavior

Understanding the Effects of Social Isolation on Mental Health

Other Resources:

Feelings Wheel

Nate Bargatze Comedy Clip

John Crist Comedy Clip

Jim Gaffigan Comedy Clip (one explicit word in this clip)

___________________________________________________________________________

About Through The Hard:

Explore Additional Support:

Delve into our website: Pathways to Hope Network (Subscribe for weekly encouragement)
Access local and national resources: Pathways Resources
Read insightful articles on our blog: Pathways Blog
Find answers to common queries: Pathways FAQ

Connect with Us:

Join our community on Facebook: Pathways to Hope Network Facebook
Stay connected on Instagram: Pathways to Hope Network Instagram
For personalized support, reach out via email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

Embracing Imperfection: Why You Need to Let Go of the Need to Fix Your Teen

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 11:00:00 GMT

Did you know studies show that over-involved parenting is associated with anxiety, depression, life dissatisfaction, and emotional dysregulation? In today’s episode, we talk about what everyone guilty of over-involved parenting wants to know. If we’re not meant to fix the problem or behavior, what are we supposed to do?

This episode's takeaways:

Influence. The biggest shift happens when we switch from a manager role to an advisor. Instead of giving directions, ask questions and provide emotional support.
Relationship. Focus on being present in your child’s discomfort they may be experiencing without taking it away. Your child is like a kite in the wind; you are the person on the ground holding the string.
Truth without a relationship leads to rejection. Rules without relationships lead to rebellion. Discipline without a relationship leads to anger and resentment. Focus on the relationship, not the behavior.
Stay consistent with discipline.
- Immediate consequences, short-term, remain loving when giving discipline.
- Non-emotional parenting.
- Show up mature, loving, and consistent. Modeling what the behavior looks like.

___________________________________________________________________________

About Through The Hard:

Explore Additional Support:

Delve into our website: Pathways to Hope Network (Subscribe for weekly encouragement)
Access local and national resources: Pathways Resources
Read insightful articles on our blog: Pathways Blog
Find answers to common queries: Pathways FAQ

Connect with Us:

Join our community on Facebook: Pathways to Hope Network Facebook
Stay connected on Instagram: Pathways to Hope Network Instagram
For personalized support, reach out via email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

Strengthening Your Realtionship with Your Teen

Tue, 27 Dec 2022 11:00:00 GMT

Show-notes Episode 27

Strengthening Your Relationship with Your Child

If life as a parent is less than perfect right now, if you feel like you are on a hamster wheel, living the same life over and over again, it may be an indication that it's time to make some shifts in your parenting.

In today’s episode, we will talk about three practical ways you can begin to change your parenting style to better support your relationship with your teen.

Learn about:

1) Switching from a model of Punishment to a model of Discipline

2) Switch from Lectures to Discussions

3) Switch from a parenting model of Telling to a parenting model of Sharing

Your to-do list:

Make a list of 5 things to do to make you feel good and put them in your calendar. Take a hot bath, have coffee with a friend, watch a reality show, exercise, or take a walk. Find a way to pour back into yourself.

Remember to take things one day at a time.

Resources:

Book quoted:

Raising Teens in a Contrary Culture by Mark Gregston

Article quoted:

Sharing vs. Telling by Vince Gowmon

Pathways website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/ (Remember to Subscribe!)

Local and national resources: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/
Blog: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/blog-2/
FAQ: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/f-a-q/

____________________________________________________________________________

Unyielding is brought to you by Pathways to Hope Network. A non-profit organization that provides cost-free support and community to parents with youth facing criminal allegations.

Learn more about Pathways on our website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Discover the community and connect by following us on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Private Facebook Community:https://www.facebook.com/groups/hopeformothers

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

For support, email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

The Greatest Risk You Are Facing

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 11:00:00 GMT

The Greatest Risk You Are Facing

In today’s episode, we talk about the greatest risk you are facing this season (it’s not what you may think). We also discuss replacing reaction with rest, identifying the emotions that may indicate you could be in reaction mode, and the four steps you should take when you find yourself there.

Notes from the show:

Parents on this journey get stuck in a cycle of reacting.

The greatest risk you are up against right now is that what’s going on with your child will break you.

You are your child's most important asset, and if you are so focused on fixing them that you end up broken, things will start falling apart.

Separate yourself emotionally, mentally, and physically, if needed, from the source of tension. Use a prepared phrase like: “I love you, and I need space for a little bit. You are important to me, and I don’t want to screw this up.” Disengage with love.

Be a detective! The story I’m telling myself is… Look for other possible interpretations. If those were true, would it change your response?

Recognize when you are in reaction mode. Say or do as little as possible until peace is restored. Wait until calm before you reengage.

Resources:

Books quoted

Music discussed (Of course, these are just my choices. Play what works best for you)

Lauren Daigle
Country Music

Pathways website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/ (Remember to Subscribe!)

Local and national resources: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/
Blog: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/blog-2/
FAQ: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/f-a-q/

____________________________________________________________________________

Unyielding is brought to you by Pathways to Hope Network. A non-profit organization that provides cost-free support and community to parents with youth facing criminal allegations.

Learn more about Pathways on our website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Discover the community and connect by following us on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Private Facebook Community:https://www.facebook.com/groups/hopeformothers

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

For support, email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

Getting Through the Holidays

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 14:00:00 GMT

Getting Through the Holidays

The holiday season can be challenging. In today's episode, we talk about some of the challenges you may face and a few new unexpected opportunities present this time of year.

Resources:

Pathways website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/ (Remember to Subscribe!)

Local and national resources: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/
Blog: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/blog-2/
FAQ: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/f-a-q/
____________________________________________________________________________

Unyielding is brought to you by Pathways to Hope Network. A non-profit organization that provides cost-free support and community to parents with youth facing criminal allegations.

Learn more about Pathways on our website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Discover the community and connect by following us on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Private Facebook Community:https://www.facebook.com/groups/hopeformothers

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

For support, email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

Finding Your Own Path

Tue, 08 Nov 2022 11:00:00 GMT

Show-notes Episode 23

Finding Your Own Path

From the moment we become parents, we condition ourselves to recognize potential dangers. For this reason, as parents with children in the juvenile justice system, it's very challenging to know how much to get involved and how much to restrain. With all our focus on them and their path, we forget that we have our own journey on this path toward healing. In this episode, we talk about that journey and how closely it's tied to discovering what our path and purpose are during this season of our child's life.

Resources:

Pathways website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/ (Remember to Subscribe!)

Local and national resources: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/
Blog: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/blog-2/
FAQ: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/f-a-q/

____________________________________________________________________________

Unyielding is brought to you by Pathways to Hope Network. A non-profit organization that provides cost-free support and community to parents with youth facing criminal allegations.

Learn more about Pathways on our website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Discover the community and connect by following us on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Private Facebook Community:https://www.facebook.com/groups/hopeformothers

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

For support, email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

Raw, Real & Unedited

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 10:00:00 GMT

Raw, Real & Unedited

Warning: Emotional Episode.

Today, I was feeling all the feels. Having a podcast or running a social media page doesn’t make you an expert on anything. Don’t let anyone tell you anyone different. Being in this role brings so many blessings, and I’m so grateful to walk beside each of you during this season of life, but it also has its challenges. Today’s message was taken in a moment of vulnerability on my iPhone when more than anything, I just felt the need to connect to you and let you know that you are not alone in this. There’s no intro, no outro, and more “ummm” than there should be, but it’s 100% real. I pray that it still finds its way to speak to what you need today.

Resources:

Pathways website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/ (Remember to Subscribe!)

Local and national resources: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/
Blog: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/blog-2/
FAQ: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/f-a-q/

____________________________________________________________________________

Unyielding is brought to you by Pathways to Hope Network. A non-profit organization that provides cost-free support and community to parents with youth facing criminal allegations.

Learn more about Pathways on our website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Discover the community and connect by following us on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

For support, email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

Teen Independence Unleashed: Loving Detachment Strategies

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 10:00:00 GMT

Show-notes Episode 21

Building Teen Competence and Confidence with Loving Detachment

One of the reasons we get so exhausted as parents is that we can become a little over-involved in our child's decisions. In this episode, we explore the practice of loving detachment and learn about the surprising impact it can have on building competency and confidence in your teen.

Listen as we review the two questions you should ask yourself before putting your child "in the backpack," and explore together feelings that may come up for you when practicing this form of letting go.

Finally, we'll discuss the idea of loving detachment by taking a look at Dr. Wayland Meyers's Blog post, How Detachment Can Be Loving For All. It’s definitely a must-read. Click the blog title to check it out! You can also find a link for it on our Resource Page listed below.

Resources:

Pathways website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/ (Remember to Subscribe!)

Local and national resources: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/
Blog: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/blog-2/
FAQ: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/f-a-q/

____________________________________________________________________________

Unyielding is brought to you by Pathways to Hope Network. A non-profit organization that provides cost-free support and community to parents with youth facing criminal allegations.

Learn more about Pathways on our website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Discover the community and connect by following us on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Private Facebook Community:https://www.facebook.com/groups/hopeformothers

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

For support, email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

The #1 Reason You Are Exhausted

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 10:00:00 GMT

Unyielding Episode 20

The #1 Reason You Feel Exhausted

Raising teenagers can be EXHAUSTING; in this episode, we discuss the #1 reason for it.

Join the conversation as I talk about the “Backpack Principle.”

This new way principle brings awareness and clarity to what it looks like to begin the process of loving detachment. I’ve been practicing it for a couple of weeks now, and it has been a GAME CHANGER in our family.

We’ll also discuss why detaching is so uncomfortable.

Two questions to ask yourself before you jump in to instruct, solve or protect your teen.
Switching roles from Director to Advisor
And more..

Episode Take Aways....

Grow in your awareness of backpack moments this week. When confronted with them, ask yourself...

1. Have they been given what I believe is wisdom on this matter, or in other words, have we covered this before?

2. Am I willing to allow this to be theirs?

Resources:

Pathways website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/ (Remember to Subscribe!)

Local and national resources: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/
Blog: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/blog-2/
FAQ: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/f-a-q/

____________________________________________________________________________

Unyielding is brought to you by Pathways to Hope Network. A non-profit organization that provides cost-free support and community to parents with youth facing criminal allegations.

Learn more about Pathways on our website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Discover the community and connect by following us on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Private Facebook Community:https://www.facebook.com/groups/hopeformothers

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

For support, email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

When Does the Healing Begin?

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 10:00:00 GMT

When Does the Healing Begin?

Parents who have been stretched thin are questioning their ability to continue holding and often ask when does the healing begin?

In this episode, we explore what healing really looks like on this journey with our child.

We also discuss some of our obstacles in getting to a place of healing, how our hope is found in the whispers, whether our patterns in parenting are still serving us in the best possible way, and more.

Special announcement regarding the next session of our online support group.

You can register and get more information by emailing “I’m in!” to closedgroup.pathways@gmail.com

Resources:

Pathways website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/ (Remember to Subscribe!)

Local and national resources: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/
Blog: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/blog-2/
FAQ: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/f-a-q/

____________________________________________________________________________

Unyielding is brought to you by Pathways to Hope Network. A non-profit organization that provides cost-free support and community to parents with youth facing criminal allegations.

Learn more about Pathways on our website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Discover the community and connect by following us on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Private Facebook Community:https://www.facebook.com/groups/hopeformothers

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

For support, email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

Finding Meaning in the Mess

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 10:00:00 GMT

Finding Meaning in the Mess

How do I do this, and how do I do it right? That’s the question nestled deep in the heart of every parent I meet.

In this episode, we talk about the two truths found in every action we take, and we also discuss the one thing that changed everything about my journey, as well as each parent I’ve coached or mentored that has been able to implement it.

Resources:

Pathways website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/ (Remember to Subscribe!)

Local and national resources: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/
Blog: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/blog-2/
FAQ: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/f-a-q/

____________________________________________________________________________

Pathways to Hope Network is a non-profit organization that provides cost-free support and community to parents with youth facing criminal allegations.

Learn more about Pathways on our website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Discover the community and connect by following us on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Private Facebook Community:https://www.facebook.com/groups/hopeformothers

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

For support, email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

The Secret To Reestablishing Trust

Tue, 16 Aug 2022 10:00:00 GMT

The Secret to Reestablishing Trust

For this final episode in Season 2, we are talking about trust. Upon reading that word, some of you are already thinking to yourself… I can’t trust my child right now. They’ve made so many choices that have me questioning their thinking.

Well, today isn’t about trusting them. Today, we are talking about trusting ourselves. See, somewhere along the way, we lost that ability, and it’s time we got it back.

As promised, here are the links we discussed in the show:

230 Personal Core Values

Brene Brown’s Whole Hearted Parenting Manifesto

Resources:

Pathways website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/ (Remember to Subscribe!)

Local and national resources: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/
Blog: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/blog-2/
FAQ: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/f-a-q/

____________________________________________________________________________

Pathways to Hope Network is a non-profit organization that provides cost-free support and community to parents with youth facing or at risk of facing criminal allegations.

Learn more about Pathways on our website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Discover the community and connect by following us on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Private Facebook Community:https://www.facebook.com/groups/hopeformothers

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

For support, email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

Down Grief Mountain: With Mary Crantson

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 10:00:00 GMT

Down Grief Mountain with Mary Cranston

In part two of my interview with Mary Cranston, we begin looking ahead to the journey down the other side of Grief Mountain.

What can we expect to encounter as we continue to navigate this journey?

Understanding the grieving process gives us permission to accept where we are, to see more clearly the work we are meant to do in this season, and to wait expectantly, knowing that this too shall pass.

4:27 Depression

6:30 Re-Entry

7:45 What Holds Us Back From Getting Support

12:17 New Relationships

15:30 New Strengths

19:20 Overlooking the Physical Side of Grief

21:40 Hope/Affirmation

23:50 The Push and Pull of Moving On

26:00 Helping Others

Mary is a life coach, a counselor, a motivational speaker, and a published author who recently wrote the book Grief Mountain ( A practical guide in recovering from grief and loss). You can find the book here on Amazon.

If you are interested in hearing more from Mary or connecting with what she's doing, check out:

Her website https://www.coachmcranston.com/

Her Instagram, Facebook and YouTube

Resources:

Pathways website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/ (Remember to Subscribe!)

Local and national resources: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/
Blog: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/blog-2/
FAQ: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/f-a-q/

____________________________________________________________________________

Pathways to Hope Network is a non-profit organization that provides cost-free support and community to parents with youth facing criminal allegations.

Learn more about Pathways on our website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Discover the community and connect by following us on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Pathwaysclosedgroup/about

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

For support, email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

Grief Mountain with Mary Cranston Part 1

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 10:00:00 GMT

Sometimes we are so consumed with trying to keep our heads above water with court dates, challenging behaviors, and worrying about the future that it's easy to dismiss the fact that there is real grief under the surface. When thinking about the challenges of grief, one person came to mind that I knew would be an incredible blessing to you. Her name is Mary Cranston and she is a life coach, a counselor, a motivational speaker, and a published author who recently wrote the book Grief Mountain ( A Practical Guide in Recovering from Grief and Loss). Join us as we explore the grief journey.

Find Grief Mountain here on Amazon.

If you are interested in hearing more from Mary or connecting with what she's doing, check out:

Her website https://www.coachmcranston.com/

Her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Resources:

Pathways website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/ (Remember to Subscribe!)
Local and national resources: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/
Blog: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/blog-2/
FAQ: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/f-a-q/

____________________________________________________________________________

Pathways to Hope Network is a non-profit organization that provides cost-free support and community to parents with youth facing criminal allegations.

Learn more about Pathways on our website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Discover the community and connect by following us on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Pathwaysclosedgroup/about

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

For support, email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

When the Challenge Changes You - Part Two

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 10:00:00 GMT

When The Challenge Changes You - Part 2

In Episode 14, A quick part two of our interview with Blake, he continues his candid conversation about what life was like as a teen in the juvenile justice system. Listen as he examines if there was anything that anyone could've done that may have changed the path he was on, discusses life after detention, his advice for parents, what his life is like today, and sends a personal message to his mama.

A few highlights from this episode:

2:02 Life after detention

3:48 Was there anything anyone could've done that would've changed the path

5:56 Blake's advice for parents

7:37 Life now

9:08 Blake's message to his mom ❤️

If you would like to send a message to Blake letting him know how his interview helped you, OR if you are interested in sharing your own experiences on the show, email afrey.pathways@gmail.com.

Resources:

Pathways website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/ (Remember to Subscribe!)

Local and national resources: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/
Blog: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/blog-2/
FAQ: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/f-a-q/

____________________________________________________________________________

Pathways to Hope Network is a non-profit organization that provides cost-free support and community to parents with youth facing criminal allegations.

Learn more about Pathways on our website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Discover the community and connect by following us on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Pathwaysclosedgroup/about

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

For support, email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

When the Challenge Changes You - Blake's Story

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 10:00:00 GMT

When The Challenge Changes You - Blake’s Story

In this episode, I have the honor of interviewing Blake, who offers us the gift of his perspective on what it was like to be a child who experienced the juvenile justice system.

In part one of this two-part interview, Blake openly shares his story of what life was like during his teen years. His experiences, the factors he believes influenced his decisions, his relationship with his mom and siblings, and what he credits as the difference-maker in him changing his course.

A few highlights from this episode:

5:35 First encounter with law enforcement.

9:18 Decision influencers

15:00 Promises to change

15:30 The difference-maker

17:00 Looking Back: what Blake credits his mom for doing well.

23:43 The greatest challenge of detention

28:00 Blakes’s relationship with his mom and the role it played

30:34 Sibling Relationships

If you would like to send a message to Blake letting him know how his interview helped you, OR if you are interested in sharing your own experiences on the show, email afrey.pathways@gmail.com.

Resources:

Pathways website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/ (Remember to Subscribe!)

Local and national resources: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/
Blog: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/blog-2/
FAQ: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/f-a-q/

____________________________________________________________________________

Pathways to Hope Network is a non-profit organization that provides cost-free support and community to parents with youth facing criminal allegations.

Learn more about Pathways on our website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Discover the community and connect by following us on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Pathwaysclosedgroup/about

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

For support, email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

What No One Tells You About Youth Probation

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode, I have the honor of interviewing Pete Feliciano. Pete graduated college with a degree in Law and Justice and a Master's degree in counseling. He recently retired from an extensive career working with hundreds of families in Thurston County Juvenile Court as a probation counselor for the last 32 years. Throughout those years, he has been a strong voice advocating for children and families in our community, and I am so grateful that he is on the show to provide us with some insight into the world of probation.

Highlights from this episode:

5:00 The biggest misconception about probation and probation counselors.

13:32 The Us versus Them mentality and the damage created by it.

15:51 What is probation, and what purpose does it serve?

18:44 What you can do today that will help your child's probation process.

22:47 One thing resilient families do that keeps them moving forward.

33:50 The one thing Petehope'ssyou'lll take away from this episode.

Resources:

Pathways website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/ (Remember to Subscribe!)

Local and national resources: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/
Blog: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/blog-2/
FAQ: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/f-a-q/

____________________________________________________________________________

Pathways to Hope Network is a non-profit organization that provides cost-free support and community to parents with youth facing criminal allegations.

Learn more about Pathways on our website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Discover the community and connect by following us on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

For support, email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

Protecting vs Equipping: How to Get it Right

Tue, 24 May 2022 10:00:00 GMT

In part two of my podcast interview with Pastor Jim Ladd, we discuss the difference between protecting and equipping our child and learn what could be at risk if we don't get this right.

We also discuss the message our children receive when we constantly operate in protection mode and the question you should ask yourself if you find yourself helping a little too much.

If you have a child in crisis, we sincerely hope that you find comfort and clarity while listening to his message on the importance of bringing ourselves back to baseline and beginning to examine the bigger picture and opportunity available to us during this time.

A few highlights from this episode:

7:40 The message our kids may be receiving when we are constantly in protection mode

8:21 The difference between protecting and equipping

11:45 Everyone can carry some of the load

14:50 The question you should ask before rescuing

If you are interested in hearing more from Jim Ladd or connecting with what he's doing, check out the Jim and Jon website to access blogs, books, and the Upstream podcast he co-hosted with his son Jon (It's fantastic). You can also find him on the Evergreen Christian Community Website and Instagram.

Resources:

Pathways website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/ (Remember to Subscribe!)

Local and national resources: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/
Blog: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/blog-2/
FAQ: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/f-a-q/

____________________________________________________________________________

Pathways to Hope Network is a non-profit organization that provides cost-free support and community to parents with youth facing criminal allegations.

Learn more about Pathways on our website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Discover the community and connect by following us on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Pathwaysclosedgroup/about

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

For support, email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

Moving Through the Unknown with Purpose

Tue, 10 May 2022 10:00:00 GMT

Moving Through the Unknown with Purpose

This episode is the second in a series of interviews with different people offering different perspectives on what to consider as you walk beside your child through the justice system.

Questioning what it looks like to parent well through a season we've never had to navigate before is a normal part of this process. In this episode, I have the honor of interviewing my pastor and friend, Jim Ladd. Jim is gifted in his ability to communicate concise, practical information in a way that is encouraging and thought-provoking, and this message is definitely one that will stay with you.

A few highlights from this episode:

2:35 Our most difficult, panicky, terrifying crisis moments are actually extremely fertile for the activity of God.

6:45 How to be loving while battling genuine feelings of anger and disappointment towards your child.

14:43 The healthy ability to connect and disconnect.

19:35 A parent's most important job when your child is in crisis.

26:28 Aligning how we parent with God’s love for us.

Resources:

Pathways website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/ (Remember to Subscribe!)

Local and national resources: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/
Blog: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/blog-2/
FAQ: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/f-a-q/

____________________________________________________________________________

Pathways to Hope Network is a non-profit organization that provides cost-free support and community to parents with youth facing criminal allegations.

Learn more about Pathways on our website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Discover the community and connect by following us on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Pathwaysclosedgroup/about

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

For support, email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

Parent-Child Connection: 1 Thing You May Not Be Doing That You Should

Tue, 26 Apr 2022 10:00:00 GMT

Show-notes (episode 9):

Today's episode is the first in a series of interviews. We will interview different people for each show to offer different perspectives on important things you may want to consider while navigating the justice system with your child.

It takes a lot of courage to share your story with others. Many families are so afraid of being judged or labeled that they never share the struggles they experienced when they had a child arrested, charged with a crime, or incarcerated. That's why I am incredibly grateful for our first guest interview. We hope you will find comfort as you listen to this brave mom share a little about her struggles, regrets, and what she would do differently if she had to do it over.

____________________________________________________________________________

Pathways to Hope Network is a non-profit organization that provides cost-free support and community to parents with youth facing criminal allegations.

Learn more about Pathways on our website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Local and national resources: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/

Blog: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/blog-2/

FAQ: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/f-a-q/

Discover the community and connect by following us on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

For support, email: afrey.pathways@gmail.com

Parenting in the Shadows: Conversations About Children Facing Legal Hurdles

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 10:00:00 GMT

Are you always worried about what you'll say if someone asks you about your child?

In Episode 8, we are talking about one of the most challenging aspects of having a child facing charges, on probation, or incarcerated. The challenge of how to approach talking to others about it. We'll discuss all the ins and outs of who you should trust with this information, what you should tell, and what to do when someone asks you and simply put, you believe it's none of their business. We'll also talk about the top reasons most of us are reluctant to share this information and the powerful shift we experience when sharing our struggles. We'll help you fight off any anxiety you might be feeling about what to tell people by helping you come up with your go-to phrase.

Resources:

Pathways website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/ (Remember to Subscribe!)

Local and national resources: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/
Blog: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/blog-2/
FAQ: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/f-a-q/

____________________________________________________________________________

Pathways to Hope Network is a non-profit organization that provides cost-free support and community to parents with youth facing criminal allegations.

Learn more about Pathways on our website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Discover the community and connect by following us on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

For support, email: closedgroup.pathways@gmail.com

Defining True Strength

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 10:00:00 GMT

We all have different interpretations about what it means to be strong during a crisis. But, so often, when we find ourselves in the thick of it, our perception of what we should or shouldn’t reasonably be able to handle can be a little off.

In this episode, I discuss what I think it means to be strong and the importance of managing your mental health as you navigate this season.

Resources:

Pathways website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/ (Remember to subscribe!)

Feeling Wheel and Journaling Prompts can be found on the Resource Tab of our website listed here:

https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/

Find us on social media.

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

To schedule a time for cost-free support/mentorship email afrey.pathways@gmail.com

You were not meant to walk through this alone.

Into the Unknown: What to Expect-Your Child

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 10:00:00 GMT

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

In Episode Six, we talk about the child at the center of it all, your son or daughter, who has temporarily gone off track and is learning in real-time how to navigate the juvenile court system while feeling the full impact of a decision they made gone wrong.

Up until now, we’ve primarily talked about the feelings or experiences of others who the arrest of our child has impacted. We haven’t talked about the thoughts and emotions that may be running through the young person who's actually facing criminal charges. Today, we will discuss a few of the emotions the young people I interviewed identified with and the important role you play in their journey through this.

Resources:

Pathways website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/ (Remember to subscribe!)

Resources: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/

The Teenaged Brain… Dr. Francis Jensin (book): https://www.amazon.com/Teenage-Brain-Neuroscientists-Survival-Adolescents/dp/0062067850

Nami.org Article: https://www.nami.org/Blogs/NAMI-Blog/June-2018/4-Ways-Teens-Can-Access-Therapy-Without-Health-Ins

Into the Unknown: What to Expect-Siblings

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 11:00:00 GMT

Having a child in crisis affects the entire family. Amid chaos and emotions, it's easy to overlook other family members who may not be directly involved, particularly siblings. Whether we talk about it with them or not, our children are very aware of the changes in the family dynamic and that the stress of the situation impacts us. This episode discusses how we should talk to our children about their sibling's arrest or incarceration. We also talk about the three things you should consider before having that conversation.

Resources:

Pathways website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/ (Remember to subscribe!)

Resources: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/

____________________________________________________________________________

Pathways to Hope Network is a non-profit organization that provides cost-free support and community to parents with youth facing criminal allegations. In Series 1, Into The Unknown, there will be six episodes. In each episode, we walk you through what to expect on this journey and provide you with resources and support.

Learn more about Pathways on our website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Discover the community and connect by following us on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

For support, email: closedgroup.pathways@gmail.com

Into the Unknown: What to Expect in Your Marriage/Relationship

Tue, 09 Nov 2021 11:00:00 GMT

Studies show that couples argue more during their child's teen years than they do any other time in their child's developmental years. In episode four, we take at look at some of the ways having a child in crisis can impact your marriage/domestic relationship. From different parenting styles to the slippery slope of “Don’t tell dad,” I share a few lessons I had to learn the hard way. The show wraps up with a great practical trip to help keep you both on the same team.

Resources:

Pathways website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/ (Remember to subscribe!)

Resources: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/

____________________________________________________________________________

Pathways to Hope is a non-profit organization with a mission to provide hope and healing to families with children in the juvenile justice system by offering support, resources and community.

Learn more about Pathways at our website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Discover the community more about our community by following our Facebook and Instagram pages.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

Email: closedgroup.pathways@gmail.com

Into the Unknown: What to Expect From Yourself

Tue, 26 Oct 2021 10:00:00 GMT

In Episode Three, we discuss the importance of understanding trauma while walking through this journey. More specifically, the trauma associated with parenting a child facing criminal charges. We hear the advice of other moms who have walked this very same road, those who have faced this trauma, and hope to help strengthen you as you are walking through your own journey.

Resources:

Pathways website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Blog: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/2021/10/28/33-moms-with-something-to-say/

The Body Keeps the Score- Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma https://www.amazon.com/Body-Keeps-Score-Healing-Trauma/dp/0143127748/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=the+body+keeps+the+score&qid=1627001361&sr=8-1

____________________________________________________________________________

Learn more about us on our website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Discover the community and connect by following us on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

For Support, Email: closedgroup.pathways@gmail.com

Into the Unknown: What to Expect-Juvenile Court System Pt 2

Tue, 12 Oct 2021 10:00:00 GMT

Part 2. Today we pick up where we left off in episode 1 and continue the conversation with more information on the juvenile court process. We’ll review felony and misdemeanor charges as well as degrees and counts. We’ll also briefly touch on plea deals & trials, what sentencing & probation look like, and then wrap the episode up by talking about record sealing.

Local Thurston County Juvenile Court Programs https://www.thurstoncountywa.gov/sc/Pages/court-cases-juvenile.aspx

Thurston County Diversion Program https://communityyouthservices.org/programs/juvenile-diversion/

Ban the Box Article on the Pathways to Hope Network Resource Page https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/

Frequently Asked Questions https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/f-a-q/

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Learn more about us on our website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Discover the community and connect by following us on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

For Support, Email: closedgroup.pathways@gmail.com

Into the Unknown: What to Expect-Juvenile Court System

Tue, 12 Oct 2021 10:00:00 GMT

In Episode One, we take a look at the Juvenile Courts System.
We talk through a little about what happens after an arrest, the diversion program (12:35), Detention (13:00), and Attorneys (15:00). We also talk about what to expect at a hearing (19:00), Terms and Conditions (26:00), and Pretrial Hearings (28:30). Most importantly, though, we talk about how having a child in crisis is not an indicator of whether or not you are a good mom.

Resources:

Local and national resources: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/resources/
Blog: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/blog-2/
FAQ: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/f-a-q/

____________________________________________________________________________

Learn more about Pathways on our website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Discover the community and connect by following us on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Pathwaysclosedgroup/about

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

For support, email: closedgroup.pathways@gmail.com

Unyielding Love

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 17:21:53 GMT

Note: This episode was originally published under our former podcast title. While the name has changed to “Parenting Through the Hard,” the heart of this conversation remains the same. Thanks for being part of the journey.

Welcome to Unyielding

My name is Angie, and as your host, my goal is to sit with you and meet you right where you are. To pick up on the conversation that is already going on in your head. I'm not afraid of tough conversations, and I'm not shy about giving a voice to the struggles you are facing. Most importantly, I'm here to remind you of all the ways the unyielding love you feel for your child reveals itself.

In this space, we show our scars. We don't pretend or hide in shame. We learn to stand together and pick each other up on the hard days. We remind each other what this fight is for.

In this space, we face our challenges with courage and learn that shame and isolation are driven out when we are brave enough to share our broken parts.

2,000,000. That's how many podcasts are out there today. 2 million podcasts, and YOU LANDED HERE. I'm so that glad that you did.

Today this journey you're on turns a corner.

Today we take back some control. Control, which comes from having choices.

Today we are choosing companionship over isolation.

We're choosing compassion over shame.

Today, we're choosing HOPE.

Learn more about Pathways at our website: https://pathwaystohopenetwork.org/

Discover the community and connect by following us on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaystohopenetwork

Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Pathwaysclosedgroup/about

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways_to_hope_network/

For Support, Email: closedgroup.pathways@gmail.com