As I navigated the highs and lows of parenting, from celebrating my daughter's military acceptance to grappling with teenage tribulations, my own triumph in becoming a registered nurse reminded me that our children are always watching, learning from our perseverance. It's this spirit of setting powerful examples that we carry into today's episode, where we're joined by the Finneys, innovators behind Lyrical Math, who have turned a classroom challenge into a hip-hop education sensation. Their story is not just about enhancing engagement; it's a testament to the transformative power of creative thinking and entrepreneurial drive in the world of learning.

Imagine a math class so compelling that students can't wait to participate, where equations flow to the rhythm of a beat. That's the reality Keziah and James Finney have created—with an initiative so impactful, it caught the attention of mathematics authority Dr. Karen Fuson. Our conversation dives into the magnetic draw of Lyrical Math and how it's reshaping the way families approach education. It's not just about making math fun; it's about crafting a learning experience that resonates on a personal level, building confidence, and fostering family bonds through the universal language of music.

In a time when the true academic level of our children can be clouded by the shadows of standardized testing and grade inflation, Lyrical Math emerges as a beacon for parents striving to reclaim control of their child's educational journey. This episode not only highlights the program's unique ability to reach kids from third to eighth grade but also its surprising utility for students beyond the classroom, even aiding parents in professional exams. We're excited to share how Lyrical Math is revolutionizing home learning, and we invite you to tune in and become part of this educational movement that's empowering families and changing the game.

Parents are the Bows and Children are the Arrows they will land wherever we aim them eventually!

Have you ever felt the weight of the world on your shoulders, trying to be the perfect parent? You're not alone. Join me, Donna Janel, as we strip away the superhero cape and discuss the real, raw, and often untold stories of motherhood. From the crushing pressures of perfection to the liberation of embracing our unique parenting paths, this episode is an honest look at the highs and lows that shape our experiences as mothers.

Motherhood isn't about being infallible; it's about being present, both for our children and ourselves. Today, we confront the pervasive mom guilt and challenge the myth that to be good parents, we must sacrifice our own well-being. By sharing personal narratives and insights on setting boundaries, practicing self-care, and fostering individuality, this discussion is a supportive guide for navigating the complexities of parenting with purpose. We delve into the transformative power of self-reflection and the importance of addressing our behaviors to avoid passing on unhelpful patterns to the next generation.

As Mother's Day approaches, I dedicate this conversation to all the mothers and mother figures in our lives. This episode is a heartfelt tribute and a reminder to prioritize self-care, embrace flexibility, and rejoice in the beautiful mess that is parenting. So, whether you're in the midst of diaper changes, guiding teenagers, or somewhere in between, tune in for an uplifting session that celebrates the journey of motherhood and the strength found in our shared stories.

Parents are the Bows and Children are the Arrows they will land wherever we aim them eventually!

Join me, Donna Janel, as I team up with the insightful Rhonda Santos to peel back the layers on a topic that's both personal and universal – healing from the scars of narcissistic abuse and codependency. Celebrating a pivotal moment in my own journey towards becoming a registered nurse, we draw parallels between the transformation of graduates embarking on new beginnings and our own steps towards fostering growth within our families. We tackle the complex web of emotions that often intertwine within our relationships, discussing how our unhealed wounds from the past can lead us down a path of seeking drama as a stand-in for intimacy, and the impact this has on nurturing our children.

As we chart the course of our conversation, we share stories close to our hearts, revealing the deep-seated roots of codependency that can ensnare those of us in the helping professions. We open up about the magnetic pull towards trying to 'fix' our partners, dissecting how this often masks a need for validation and caretaking. The discussion takes a turn towards self-discovery as we consider the importance of setting boundaries, not just for our own well-being but as a beacon for our children to follow. We're reminded that the journey of healing isn't just for us; it's a legacy we impart to our kids, replacing cycles of hurt with patterns of healthy, self-affirming love.

Our dialogue ventures beyond the personal, considering how the post-pandemic world has reshaped our approach to dating and relationships. We celebrate personal victories, like the nearing end of Rhonda's doctoral program, and the joys of newfound financial independence – all milestones marking the progress on our paths. This episode is a testament to the courage it takes to confront our traumas, to the transformative power of education, and to the resilience that comes with learning to love ourselves fully. Listen as we affirm that each step we take is one towards a future where our children can thrive, unencumbered by the burdens of our past.

Parents are the Bows and Children are the Arrows they will land wherever we aim them eventually!