Beginning and Ending and Everything In the Middle of It

IN THE BEGINNING I've been reflecting so much this week about the humble beginning of my podcasting journey. Thinking back on all the things that inspired me to start it: conversations with my friend (and ex-cousin-in-law); my love of books, my love for teens, the great 13 Reasons Why debacle I experienced with my 13-year-old daughter. Creating 100 episodes is such a huge deal for me – there were times I thought I wouldn't make it past the 10th, 25th, or 50th episodes. From that terrifying moment I hit "publish" on my first episode, through all the weeks in the beginning when slogged through learning all the technology, to when I hit a good pace at around 30-ish episodes – it seems like a blur. BUMPS, BRUISES, AND BEGINNING ANEW There have been some bumps and bruises along the way, some rough endings and do-overs that have been messy and challenging. But I wouldn't trade anything for a minute of it. I've given myself so many fresh starts along the way from new beginnings and rebranding to expanding my content to encompass middle school teachers as well as parenting. EVOLUTIONS AND BEGINNING TO FOCUS As the podcast has evolved, I'm beginning to focus on some key areas, like healthy boundaries, developmental appropriateness, and connecting with your teens. I'm so proud of the work I've done – and continue to do - to put tools in your hands along the way that help in understanding, relating to and connecting with your teens To celebrate this 100th episode, I've curated episodes that go along with 5 different areas. You can click on any of the links to find the episodes related to these topics: Healthy boundaries Developmental appropriateness Young Adult books Teaching teens Parenting teens GRATITUDE AND THANKS I want to give a big thanks to each one of you! I can't tell you how much fun I've had beginning this journey with you, and how much I appreciate the time you share with me, hanging out and listening. ENTER TO WIN ONE OF TWO $50 AMAZON GIFT CARDS!! To show my gratitude, I'm inviting you to enter a drawing for two (2) $50 Amazon Gift cards. Here's what you need to do to enter: Go to my FaceBook or Instagram profile.  Comment on the FB or IG posts I'm sharing about Episode 100, by sharing 1 way the In the Middle of It podcast has helped you with your teens. Take a screenshot and DM it to me, along with your best email address. Join me on FaceBook live, Monday, Oct. 12 at 7:00 CST. See if your name is drawn to win one of the two (2) $50 Amazon Gift Cards