Todd & Cathy discuss college drop offs, equipping our kids to stay safe at school, and keeping ouselves sane.

We discussed an 18 year old son’s unwillingness to support the family system, Byron Katie’s “The Work”, and Soiling the nest- right before they leave home (for college, work, etc.), often become more defiant, withdrawn, irritable, or even uncooperative. It may seem counterintuitive, but psychologically, it helps them emotionally separate from the family in order to take the leap into …

Hi Team Zen, The meeting focused on preparing parents and guardians for their children’s college experience, with hosts Todd and Sweetie leading a discussion that covered various aspects of college preparation and transition. The conversation explored strategies for navigating conversations about college with children, including advice on maintaining open communication while allowing students to lead the process. The discussion concluded …

Hi Team Zen, We just wrapped our 200th Zen Talk, and we couldn’t be more grateful for this community. Thank you for showing up, sharing openly, and helping us create a space where connection and growth thrive. In Zen Talk #200, we dug into the complex realities of the “Sandwich Generation”—juggling care for aging parents while raising independent teens. We …

10:42 1. Big Life Transitions The group opened up about the emotional ups and downs of their kids graduating, applying to college, or switching schools. Whether it was excitement, anxiety, or just trying to stay present, everyone shared how they’re navigating these big shifts and helping their kids feel seen and supported. 19:08 2. School Struggles & Learning Differences Several …

Cathy and Todd discuss “Adolescence” as well as support Millie with her 7th grade son’s friendship challenges.

Hi everybody, Do you know there is a private feed for all Zen Talks so you can easily access all Zen Talks on your phone?  Instructions can be found here. Click here to catch the video of Zen Talk #197 or listen on the podcast app from your phone. Our Zen Talk link does not change so please book mark …

Hi everybody, Do you know there is a private feed for all Zen Talks so you can easily access all Zen Talks on your phone?  Instructions can be found here. Click here to catch the video of Zen Talk #195 or listen on the podcast app from your phone. Our Zen Talk link does not change so please book mark …

Hi everybody, Do you know there is a private feed for all Zen Talks so you can easily access all Zen Talks on your phone?  Instructions can be found here. Click here to catch the video of Zen Talk #195 or listen on the podcast app from your phone. Our Zen Talk link does not change so please book mark …

Hi everybody, Do you know there is a private feed for all Zen Talks so you can easily access all Zen Talks on your phone?  Instructions can be found here. Click here to catch the video of Zen Talk #195 or listen on the podcast app from your phone. Our Zen Talk link does not change so please book mark …

Hi everybody, Do you know there is a private feed for all Zen Talks so you can easily access all Zen Talks on your phone?  Instructions can be found here. Click here to catch the video of Zen Talk #194 or listen on the podcast app from your phone. Our Zen Talk link does not change so please book mark …

Hi everybody, Do you know there is a private feed for all Zen Talks so you can easily access all Zen Talks on your phone?  Instructions can be found here. Click here to catch the video of Zen Talk #193 or listen on the podcast app from your phone. Our Zen Talk link does not change so please book mark …

Hi everybody, Do you know there is a private feed for all Zen Talks so you can easily access all Zen Talks on your phone?  Instructions can be found here. Click here to catch the video of Zen Talk #192 or listen on the podcast app from your phone. Our Zen Talk link does not change so please book mark …

Hi everybody, Do you know there is a private feed for all Zen Talks so you can easily access all Zen Talks on your phone?  Instructions can be found here. Click here to catch the video of Zen Talk #191 or listen on the podcast app from your phone. Our Zen Talk link does not change so please book mark …

Hi everybody, Do you know there is a private feed for all Zen Talks so you can easily access all Zen Talks on your phone?  Instructions can be found here. Click here to catch the video of Zen Talk #190 or listen on the podcast app from your phone. Our Zen Talk link does not change so please book mark …

Jennifer, Cathy and Todd discussed the potential harm of harsh skincare products on young skin, the trend of cosmetic procedures, and the importance of safe and effective skincare for young people. They also shared personal anecdotes about their own experiences with skincare, makeup, and their children’s interests. Lastly, they discussed the societal expectations surrounding appearance, particularly for women, and the impact this has on their daughters’ self-confidence.

Discussion & Time Stamps
6:58 Teenage son connects with us, more than friends
12:37 Renegade 6th grade boys defying authority
20:41 Phone addiction
44:18 Straight & cisgender teenage son feeling not being looked out for through the lens of society
1:04:03 Teenage son is not doing great outside the home, but not interacting with us at home