MDOT with Laura Ollinger

In this insightful episode of the Modern Day Overthinker podcast, host Collin Strajack sits down with Laura Ollinger—a nationally board-certified health and wellness coach, teen & parent wellbeing expert, speaker, mother of four teenagers, and host of the Positively Healthy Mom Podcast. Laura shares her powerful journey into coaching, sparked by personal experiences with her children's anxiety, the loss of her nephew to suicide, and a deep calling to support families during the challenges of adolescence. With formal training starting in 2020 and a focus on positive psychology, Laura explains how she helps teens and tweens build confidence, motivation, and emotional resilience—not through therapy, but through action-oriented, forward-focused coaching. Key topics include: The critical difference between coaching and therapy (and when both are needed) Why parent involvement is non-negotiable in teen coaching How teens use screens and gaming as emotional coping tools—and healthier alternatives The power of getting teen buy-in and making coaching feel empowering, not punitive Breaking the stigma: coaching as a proactive, strength-based tool for growth Laura's motivational school talks and her signature framework, "The Decider"—teaching teens they have agency over their thoughts, feelings, and future Laura also opens up about: Balancing motherhood, business, and impact The importance of listening without fixing, validating feelings, and giving teens space to fail and grow Why "perfect" teens might actually be struggling the most A heartfelt message to anyone in despair: "Give it time. There are answers you can't see yet." Whether you're a parent navigating the teenage years, a teen feeling overwhelmed, or someone passionate about mental and emotional wellbeing, this episode is packed with practical wisdom, hope, and real-world strategies. Where to find Laura: Podcast: Positively Healthy Mom Podcast Coaching & Speaking: lauraollinger.com Instagram: @lauraollinger_coach