In this episode, I sit down with leadership mentor and values-based coach, Adalena Oliver, about core values, those beliefs that guide decisions when no one is watching and how they shape parenting through what children observe in everyday moments.

Adelena shares how recognizing misalignment with her values, especially freedom, influenced her leadership and personal choices. She recounts a childhood lesson that set her on a course of discovering the true meaning of core values. Adalena explains her Developmental Core Values Theory, emphasizing that values show up differently across life stages and that parents often err by punishing without curiosity about their children’s level of understanding, thoughts, and intentions.

We discuss principles like modeling values, apologizing, and restoring trust, as well as deciding which inherited practices to keep or change amid cultural and technology-driven pressures.

If you’ve been wondering how to impart crucial values and ideals to your children in a meaningful way, tune in for tips to get you started.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Welcome 01:07 Why Values Matter 02:21 Defining Core Values 06:01 Adalena’s Values Journey 12:15 Values Across Stages 14:39 Stop Scolding Start Being Curious 20:20 Consequences and Repair 25:53 Daily Values Conversations 29:24 Breaking Dysfunction Cycles 33:45 Unpopular Value Choices 39:29 Where To Follow Adalena 39:57 Final Takeaways

Check out our brand partners for this episode:

The Parenting 411 - Motherhood can be beautiful and heavy at the same time. The Ministry of Mom Experience is a space for moms to breathe, connect, and be renewed—spiritually and emotionally. Learn more: https://www.ministryofmom.com

Chewy – Keep your pet well-fed, well-dressed, and most of all, well loved with all the things you need at Chewy. Shop here: https://bit.ly/4nVp7Sv

**For more of our Favorite Finds for Moms and Families, click here: https://mave.ly/p411picks 👍

If this episode helps you, please like, subscribe, and share with a mom who wants to raise kids with character.

#FamilyValues #Leadership #RoleModels #TheParenting411 #ParentInPurpose #MothersWork

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Today, I’m joined by Samira Jones, founder of Smarter Resilience and the nonprofit Survivors Advocates Voices Emerging (SAVE), for a heartfelt conversation about helping families navigate fear, anxiety, trauma, and life’s hardest seasons.

Samira unpacks her SMART framework for resilience: Self-Awareness, Mindset Mastery, Action with Intention, Reinforcing Actions, and Transformation. She explains how resilience is not about simply returning to who you were before hardship, but about learning how to move forward with greater clarity, strength, and purpose.

During the conversation, Samira shares a deeply personal part of her story. It became a turning point, leading her to publicly name her truth and deepen her commitment to helping others heal and “bounce forward.” Carol and Samira also explore what it looks like to create emotional safety at home. Finally, this episode also highlights the reality that parents bring their own triggers into family life. If you’ve ever wondered how to support your child through difficult emotions while tending to your own healing too, this conversation offers compassionate insight and practical encouragement. Connect with Samira L. Jones through her podcast, her book, and SurvivorsMag.com to learn more about her work.

CHAPTERS

00:00 - Welcome 02:22 What Is the SMART Framework? 05:54 The Moment of Truth 11:26 Building Emotional Safety at Home 21:52 Anxiety Warning Signs 23:19 When Kids Trigger Trauma 29:58 Reconciliation After Mistakes 33:05 Proud Mom Reflections 36:37 Where To Find Samira 37:37 Closing Thoughts

CHECK OUT OUR BRAND PARTNERS for this episode.

The Parenting 411 - Feeling spiritually drained or running on empty? The Ministry of Mom Experience is a faith-centered day designed to help moms reset, refuel, and reconnect—while gaining practical parenting tools you can use right away. Get the details at https://www.ministryofmom.com

Ulta – Dermalogica Moms can keep their skin refreshed with Phyto Nature Firming Serum by Dermalogica. Grab yours from Ulta with link: https://bit.ly/4nj6Ezd.

**For more of our Favorite Finds for Moms and Families, click here: https://mave.ly/p411picks

👍 If this episode helps you, please like, subscribe, and share with a mom who’s carrying too much.

#TheParenting411Podcast #Family Trauma #FamilyHealing #MentalHealth #Reconciliation #Anxiety #Trauma

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Let's stay connected:

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Julie Cole calls herself a “recovered lawyer”. She’s the mom of six, and co-founder of Mabel’s Labels, the now award-winning, multimillion-dollar label company that started in a basement. Julie tells the real story behind growing a business while raising a big family, navigating an autism diagnosis, and learning that self-care sometimes looks less like spa days…and more like boundaries, help, and lowering your standards without shame.

This conversation is equal parts inspiring and practical—with plenty of takeaways for moms who are building dreams, raising kids, and trying to do it all without burning out.

In This Episode, You’ll Hear About:

• How Julie Cole and her co-founders spotted a market gap that became Mabel’s Labels
• Why durability mattered so much…including the early dishwasher testing during R&D
• What it took to launch and grow a brand before social media
• The power of grassroots marketing: free press, word-of-mouth, early mom bloggers, and later social platforms
• The real-life cost of entrepreneurship for moms: late nights, sacrifices, and aligning co-founders
• What Julie’s “self-care season” really looked like while raising six kids

Learn more about Julie at https://mabelslabels.com

CHAPTERS

00:00 Welcome

02:03 Meet Julie Cole

07:14 From Basement R&D to Launch: Building an Early E‑Commerce Brand

13:31 Tips for Moms with a Business Idea

17:03 Self‑Care Reality Check

22:46 Raising Independent Kids: Chores, Responsibility & ‘Don’t Do It For Them’

30:35 The ‘Mother Load’: Invisible Labor, Decision Fatigue & Workplace Flexibility

36:51 What She’s Most Proud Of: Role Modeling, Culture & Building a Company Community

39:37 Advice for Moms: Find Your People, Curate Social Media & Take the Next Step

41:09 Closing Thoughts

CHECK OUT OUR BRAND PARTNERS for this episode.

The Parenting 411 - Feeling spiritually drained or running on empty? The Ministry of Mom Experience is a faith-centered day designed to help moms reset, refuel, and reconnect—while gaining practical parenting tools you can use right away. Get the details at https://www.ministryofmom.com

Chewy – Keep your pet well-fed, well-dressed, and most of all, well loved with all the things you need at Chewy. Shop here: https://bit.ly/4nVp7Sv

**For more of our Favorite Finds for Moms and Families, click here: https://mave.ly/p411picks

👍 If this episode helps you, please like, subscribe, and share with a mom who’s carrying too much.

#MotherLoad #momLife #parentingSupport #Branding #Entrepreneur #workingMoms #TheParenting411Podcast

Feeling overwhelmed by the invisible mental load of parenting? Appointments. Email. School updates. Birthday parties. And the pressure to “do it all”? In this episode of The Parenting 411 Podcast, I talk with Amy Briggs, a pediatric speech-language pathologist, mom, and creator of Aviva, an AI-powered scheduling assistant built to help families reclaim time, reduce stress, and stay present.

Amy shares what she witnessed in families’ homes post-pandemic: rising standards, constant guilt, and moms apologizing for not keeping up. We unpack executive functioning (your brain’s “conductor”), why scheduling is emotional, and how practical support can bring you back to connection and joy. Amy also addresses common concerns about AI, including privacy and control.

Learn more about Amy Briggs and Aviva at https://www.withaviva.com/

CHAPTERS

00:00 Welcome + Ministry of Mom invite 01:06 Invisible mental load + meet Amy Briggs 08:06 Executive functioning for parents 14:08 Why scheduling triggers anxiety 20:59 Can AI reduce parental stress? 23:48 How Aviva works for real family life 26:11 4 hours back + fewer dropped balls 29:24 “No trophy for doing it all” 35:07 Closing + community invite

Check out our brand partners for this episode:

The Parenting 411: Motherhood can be beautiful and heavy at the same time. The Ministry of Mom Experience is a space for moms to breathe, connect, and be renewed—spiritually and emotionally. Grab your copy: https://www.mothersworkthebook.com

Ulta – Dermalogica Moms can keep their skin refreshed with Phyto Nature Firming Serum by Dermalogica. Grab yours from Ulta with link: mavely.app.link/e/d1yGDmi0CXb

Don’t forget to sign up for The Ministry of Mom Experience (Washington, DC) — May 2: A faith-centered day to reset and walk away with practical parenting tools and encouragement. Register at https://www.ministryofmom.com

**For more of our Favorite Finds for Moms and Families, click here: https://mave.ly/p411picks

If this episode helps you, please like, subscribe, and share with a mom who’s carrying too much.

#mentalLoad #momLife #parentingSupport #executiveFunctioning #familyScheduling #workingMoms #TheParenting411Podcast

For this conversation, I just had to bring Donna Cates back. You'll recall she's a financial expert and certified divorce financial analyst who knows her stuff. Our conversation is short but loaded with nuggets divorcing moms need to know. We talk about the emotional and practical impacts of divorce on children, focusing on how parents can manage financial disparities and communicate effectively to maintain stability for their kids.

Donna offers insights on handling alimony and child support, emphasizing the importance of predictability and creating positive experiences. The discussion highlights tools like Our Family Wizard to facilitate co-parenting communication. Tune in for valuable advice on leading with wisdom and fairness during challenging times.

Connect with Donna:

• Website: MoneyMattersWealth.com

• Social: Money Matters Wealth Solutions (and “Donna Cates”)

CHAPTERS

00:00 Welcome

00:33 Special Invitation: Ministry of Mom Experience

01:06 Introducing Financial Expert Donna Cates

01:53 Discussing Lifestyle Adjustments with Children

04:20 Understanding Child Support and Alimony

07:19 Ongoing Practices for Co-Parenting

08:44 Financial Truths Children Need to Hear

10:51 Connecting with Donna Cates

13:11 Final Thoughts

#KidsAndDivorce #CoParenting #EmotionalWellbeing #PeacefulParenting #DoItForTheKids

The Parenting 411: Motherhood can be beautiful and heavy at the same time. The Ministry of Mom Experience is a space for moms to breathe, connect, and be renewed—spiritually and emotionally. Learn more: https://www.ministryofmom.com

Ulta - Dermalogica: Moms can keep their skin refreshed with Phyto Nature Firming Serum by Dermalogica. Grab yours from Ulta with link: https://bit.ly/4nj6Ezd

**For more of our Favorite Finds for Moms and Families, click here: https://mave.ly/p411picks

#DivorceFinancialPlanning #DivorceSupport #WomenAndMoney #SingleMomSupport #CoParenting #ChildSupport #529Plan #FinancialEmpowerment #DivorceAdvice #TheParenting411Podcast

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Let's stay connected: Website: http://www.theparenting411.com/

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Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/theparenting411

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@TheParenting411

Divorce can feel like the ground shifts under your feet—emotionally and financially. In this episode of The Parenting 411 Podcast, I talk with Donna Cates, a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA), about the money decisions that can shape your next chapter—and your child’s future. Donna breaks down the most common financial blind spots women face during divorce, what to gather before negotiating anything, and how to stay practical when emotions are running high.

You’ll also hear smart guidance around child-related expenses, child support realities, 529 college savings, lifestyle changes, and how to find support even when you feel you “can’t afford it.”

What You’ll Learn

• The #1 financial blind spot women face early in divorce

• Why the person who initiates divorce often has an advantage—and how to catch up

• The key documents to gather (and why doing it early can save attorney fees)

• How to manage emotions without letting them derail financial decisions

• Child support vs. “real life” kid expenses: extracurriculars, tutoring, trips, instruments, etc.

• How to protect your child’s future through smart planning (including 529 accounts)

• The truth about maintaining the same lifestyle after divorce—and what to do instead

• Practical ways to pay for professional support Key Takeaways

• Don’t negotiate in the dark. Knowing what you own, owe, earn, and spend changes everything.

• Divorce is emotional—but your decisions must be informed.

• Put kids’ extras in writing. Understand that child support often covers basics only.

• Plan for two households. Two fridges, two sets of clothes, duplicated costs—it adds up fast.

• Support exists. Donna shares resources, including a free virtual workshop for women.

Connect with Donna:

• Website: MoneyMattersWealth.com

• Social: Money Matters Wealth Solutions (and “Donna Cates”)

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to the Parenting 411 Podcast

00:33 Special Invitation: Ministry of Mom Experience

01:06 Navigating Divorce: Emotional and Financial Challenges

01:49 Introducing Donna Cates: Financial Guidance for Women

02:55 Understanding Financial Blind Spots in Divorce

06:16 Gathering Key Financial Documents

14:44 Protecting Your Children's Financial Future

21:18 Common Mistakes in Maintaining Lifestyle Post-Divorce

24:08 First Steps to Gain Clarity and Confidence

26:44 Resources and Support for Women

31:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Check out our brand partners for this episode:

The Parenting 411:

The Ministry of Mom Experience Motherhood can be beautiful and heavy at the same time. The Ministry of Mom Experience is a space for moms to breathe, connect, and be renewed—spiritually and emotionally. Learn more: https://www.ministryofmom.com

Ulta: Dermalogica Moms can keep their skin refreshed with Phyto Nature Firming Serum by Dermalogica. Grab yours from Ulta with link: https://bit.ly/4nj6Ezd

**For more of our Favorite Finds for Moms and Families, click here: https://mave.ly/p411picks

#DivorceFinancialPlanning #DivorceSupport #WomenAndMoney #SingleMomSupport #CoParenting #ChildSupport #529Plan #FinancialEmpowerment #DivorceAdvice #TheParenting411Podcast

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Let's stay connected:

Website: http://www.theparenting411.com/

IG: http://www.instagram.com/the_parenting_411

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/theparenting411

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@TheParenting411

In this episode, I discuss navigating the complexities of modern motherhood and maintaining wellness in a technology-driven world. I share my personal experiences and offer valuable tips for parents on how to embrace technology without letting it overwhelm your lives. My key points include the importance of setting boundaries, leveraging technology as a tool for convenience, protecting family privacy, and balancing screen time with offline activities. By the end of the episode, you will gain insight into making technology an ally in their wellness journey.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction

01:00 Embracing Technology in Parenting

01:51 The Evolution of Technology in Our Lives

03:45 Managing Technology for Family Wellness

05:55 Setting Boundaries with Technology

08:07 Balancing Screen Time and Real Life

08:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Check out our Brand Partner for this episode:

Columbia: Columbia – Whether you’re bundling up or peeling a few layers. Columbia has you covered no matter the weather! You’ll find what you need right here: https://bit.ly/3K2fxiV

The Parenting 411: Join us for The Ministry of Experience on May 2 in Washington, DC.

Click here for more information: https://www.ministryofmom.com

Want to sponsor? Click here: https://www.ministryofmom.com/sponsors

#WellnessinAWiredWorld #ParentingInTheDigitalAge #MentalHealth #SelfCare #TechLifeBalance #ParentingTips #TheParenting411 #TheParenting411Podcast

For this conversation, I sit down with licensed professional counselor and intuitive healer Marsha Evans to discuss the complexities of parenting and the importance of breaking unhealthy generational cycles. We dive into the pressures parents face, particularly in highly competitive environments, and offers practical advice on how to let children evolve into their true selves. We also talk about the power of family systems, handling teenage rebellion, and the importance of parents doing the inner work to avoid passing down harmful patterns. Marsha also introduces tools like genograms to help parents understand their family history and offers actionable steps for creating a healthier, more intentional family dynamic.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Welcome 02:15 Letting Your Child Evolve

05:48 Understanding Your Child's World

08:46 Generational Patterns and Family Systems

17:23 Creating a Parenting Philosophy

27:20 Recognizing and Embracing Your Child's Personality

35:21 The Impact of Parental Background on Parenting

37:16 Creating New Family Patterns and Legacies

43:50 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Parents

49:28 Conclusion and Additional Resources

Check out our BRAND PARTNERS for this episode:

Chewy – Keep your pet well-fed, well-dressed, and most of all, well loved with all the things you need at Chewy. Shop here: https://bit.ly/4nVp7Sv

The Parenting 411 - Mother’s Work is never done. My mini motherhood memoir shares gems I’ve learned as a mom from the toddler years to young adulthood. Grab a free copy PLUS bonuses at http://www.mothersworkthebook.com

**For more of our Favorite Finds for Moms and Families, click here: https://mave.ly/p411picks ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Let's stay connected:

Website: http://www.theparenting411.com/

IG: http://www.instagram.com/the_parenting_411

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/theparenting411

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheParenting411

#GenerationalHealing #ConsciousParenting #BreakTheCycle #ParentingWithPurpose #FamilySystems #IntentionalParenting #ParentingWisdom #RaisingWholeChildren #InnerWorkForParents #TheParenting411 #TheParenting411Podcast