Cultivating Excellence Podcast

In today’s fast-paced world, the dynamics of parenting and relationships have become increasingly complex. Dr. Samantha Rodman-Whiten, known as Dr. Psych Mom, shares valuable insights on how couples can foster a loving environment for their children while navigating the challenges of modern life. Samantha's professional website https://www.drsamantharodman.com/Dr. PsychMom https://www.drpsychmom.com/about/The Dr. Psych Mom podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-psych-mom-show-with-clinical-psychologist/id1603301666Dr. Rodman Whiten's books on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/stores/Samantha-Rodman/author/B014MRIMKG?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2&qid=1773260036&sr=8-2&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=ac090b04-63ee-45f7-9f81-97c51a140fc6

Dr. Marcou's practice in Bethesda, Maryland https://www.drrobymarcou.com/Interesting books we discussed in today's episode:The Geography of Thought: How Asians and Westerners Think Differently and Why by NesbittThe Smartest Kids in the World and How They Got that Way by Amanda RipleyThe Bilingual Edge by Dr. Alison MackeyMore than Words: How Talking Sharpens the Mind and Shapes our World by Dr. Maryellen MacDonaldand of course, wonderful books to enjoy with children, including: Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak, The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats, Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin, Bread and Jam for Frances by Russel Hoban, and the Amelia Bedelia books by Herman Parrish

How do we support bright, capable students without pushing them into burnout?In this episode of Cultivating Excellence, Susan Holzman, Director of Academic Support at Bullis School, shares her thoughts on today’s high-achieving and exceptional students. Susan explains how the idea of the “smart kid” has changed over time. Today’s exceptional learners are often creative, curious, entrepreneurial, and deeply capable, but many also struggle with ADHD, dyslexia, anxiety, executive functioning, perfectionism, or other learning differences. She explains why strong schools must offer both challenge and support, especially for students whose abilities vary across different areas.Susan also speaks candidly about the pressure many high-achieving students face. She highlights the dangers of overscheduling, chronic sleep deprivation, perfectionism, and multitasking, and she emphasizes that success should not come at the cost of joy, health, or emotional well-being. The conversation also explores how parents can set healthier boundaries, when to seek outside support such as executive functioning coaching or therapy, and why foundational skills still matter even for highly advanced learners. Tune in as Susan shares practical wisdom for helping gifted and twice-exceptional students thrive with both rigor and balance.Resources:Follow and connect with Susan Holzman on LinkedIn.Learn more about the Bullis School on their LinkedIn and website.Visit the Learning Support at Bullis here.Listen as Susan speaks about Universal Design for Learning this summer at the Independent School Management's Summer Institute here.

Boys thrive when schools design for movement, establish clear routines, and build character without pushing kids past their limits.In this episode, Tara Montague, Assistant Head of Langdon School, explains how boy-friendly learning environments promote academic success, healthier behavior, and stronger long-term development from elementary through high school. She discusses why boys benefit from structured schedules, built-in outlets for movement, flexible classroom setups, and repeated directions to support focus and learning. The conversation highlights the importance of recess, daily physical activity, athletics, nutrition, and consistent routines, as well as the role of executive functioning support in middle school. Tara also explores leadership, ethics, healthy masculinity, parent-school partnership, advocacy across settings, and how phone-free campuses strengthen student connection while helping schools challenge students without breaking them.Tune in and learn how to help boys build resilience, character, and lasting motivation in today’s high-pressure world.Resources:Connect with and follow Tara Montague on LinkedIn.Follow Landon School on LinkedIn and visit their website. Check out Dr. John Ratey’s book, Spark, and Richard V. Reeves’ book, Of Boys And Men.

When learning environments are designed to match how the brain actually works, students who learn differently can thrive.In this episode, Dr. Bob Lane, Director of Admissions, explains how learning differences are often misunderstood as deficits rather than natural variations in how brains process information. He discusses why reading and writing are not innate skills and must be taught through explicit, systematic, evidence-based instruction, particularly for students with dyslexia, dysgraphia, and executive functioning differences. The conversation explores how Orton-Gillingham–based multisensory instruction and small-group diagnostic teaching support skill development, and why writing must be taught intentionally rather than assumed. Dr. Lane also examines the limits of accommodations, emphasizing the need to build foundational skills first, and highlights how emotional safety, belonging, and strong relationships free cognitive bandwidth and foster authentic confidence through real success.Tune in and learn how the right environment can transform learning differences into strengths.Resources:Connect with and follow Dr. Bob Lane on LinkedIn.Follow Lab School of Washington on LinkedIn.Visit the school website to learn more about Lab’s mission, programs, and approach to supporting students who learn differentlyInterested in applying? Complete an inquiry on this page and register for one of the upcoming Admissions Info Sessions on this page“Sold a Story” Podcast by Emily HanfordA deep dive into how reading instruction shifted from evidence-based practices to ideology-driven approaches and the impact on studentshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sold-a-story/id1649580473Dr. Rick Lavoie’s FAT City: How Difficult Can This Be?A powerful video for educators that simulates what it feels like to have learning disabilitieshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O9NfoGiLKdAThe Reservoir GroupExpert services in occupational therapy, psychological services (including testing), and speech and language therapyLearn more here about The Lab’s summer programs and learning opportunities

Raising kind, confident, and prepared kids has never felt more urgent.In this episode of the Cultivating Excellence podcast, Danny Vogelman, Head of School at the Washington Episcopal School in Bethesda, Maryland, discusses the importance of intentionally educating the whole child in a post-pandemic world. He shares why kindness must be directly taught and modeled with the same care as academics, starting with the adults who shape school culture. Danny explains how confidence grows through emotionally safe environments that encourage developmentally appropriate risk-taking and resilience. He also highlights how a balanced approach to academic rigor, real-world experiences, and non-academic elements, such as recess, executive functioning, and joyful learning, prepares students for life beyond the classroom.Tune in to learn how schools can help students thrive, not just academically, but as whole individuals. Resources:Connect with and follow Danny Vogelman on LinkedIn.Follow Washington Episcopal School in Bethesda, Maryland, on LinkedIn and visit their website.

Resilience in girls grows when adults set clear expectations, model boundaries, and allow them to struggle safely.In this episode, Kimberlie Hogan and Nicki Iadarola from Connelly School of the Holy Child discuss how cultural pressures, from constant digital access to achievement-driven environments, shape girls’ development and well-being in a post-pandemic world. They explain how real-time grades, virtual academics, and nonstop screen use heighten stress, fuel comparison, and erode delayed gratification, even as they offer new forms of accessibility. Kim and Nicki outline practical ways parents can set limits while supporting independence, along with the importance of understanding friendship dynamics and recognizing signs of harmful social behavior. They also highlight how schools can build resilience, self-advocacy, healthy habits, and strong character to support girls as they grow.Tune in and learn how to guide girls toward resilience, confidence, and well-being in an increasingly complex world!Resources:Connect with and follow Kimberlie Hogan on LinkedIn.Follow the Connelly School of the Holy Child on LinkedIn and visit their website.

Every child needs a champion who sees their strengths first.In this episode, Barry Davis, Head of the McLean School of Maryland, and Cathy Patterson, Director of Enrollment, discuss how bright students with learning differences can thrive when education emphasizes their abilities rather than their deficits. They emphasize the importance of building confidence, celebrating talents, and sharing test results openly so that students understand both their strengths and challenges. Small class sizes, strong teacher-student relationships, and safe, supportive environments are presented as essential for encouraging risk-taking and growth. The guests also explore evidence-based literacy instruction, such as Orton-Gillingham, explicit writing instruction, handwriting, and word study, alongside mindfulness practices that reduce anxiety and open space for learning. Enrichment opportunities in arts, sports, and robotics further allow students to shine, while testing is framed as a tool to guide instruction and help children face challenges with optimism.Tune in and learn how to unlock the potential of twice-exceptional learners through strengths-based education, evidence-based practices, and meaningful connections!Resources:Follow and connect with Cathy Patterson on LinkedIn.Learn more about the McLean School of Maryland on their LinkedIn and website.

SC Nealy, LPC, CCMHC, ACS, NCC, MA, MA(Pronouns: they/she)With over 16 years in the mental health field, SC Nealy is a queer, gender fluid psychotherapist, clinical supervisor, and group practice owner in Arlington, VA called LGBT+ Counseling Collaborative. SC operates a team of all gay and trans-identifying therapists with the focus of bringing clinicians with lived experiences to the queer community and their families. They also work locally and nationally to advocate for queer rights, accessible mental health care, and bringing more awareness to the needs of the queer community. Their upcoming book published by Bloomsbury Academics, Healing Sacred Wounds, focuses on giving folx a guide map for processing and exploring their experiences in religious or spiritual trauma. As a therapist, they specialize in religious trauma, lesbian and sapphic identities, sapphic and genderfluid-identifying couples counseling, mixed orientation marriages, transitioning genders within a relationship, complex-PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, interpersonal process group therapy, and non-faith based premarital counseling. In their personal life, they are a parent to two children, happily partnered, and have written over 30+ romance novels for fun. Learn more at lgtbcounselingdmv.com.lgbtcounselingdmv.cominstagram.com/scnealyinstagram.com/lgbtcounselingdmvfacebook.com/lgbtcounselingdmvfacebook.com/booksbysarahrobinsonlinkedin.com/in/sarahnealy/

The Loper App homepage https://www.getloper.com/Eric and Sam are spotlighted as innovative Georgetown Alums https://alumni.georgetown.edu/alumni-spotlight-eric-menna-sfs18-sam-bernstein-c18-co-founders-of-loper/

In this conversation, Dr. Sarah Bennison discusses the Mattering Movement, which aims to combat feelings of inadequacy and loneliness, particularly among young people. She shares her experiences as an educator in underprivileged areas and highlights the importance of small acts of kindness and service learning in fostering connections and a sense of belonging. The discussion also touches on the pressures of achievement culture in education and the need for both students and teachers to feel valued and empowered. Dr. Bennison emphasizes the actionable nature of fostering mattering in educational settings and provides practical steps for parents and educators to create supportive environments.The Mattering Movement, which includes tools for parents and teachers https://www.thematteringmovement.com/Dr. Jonathan Kozol, author of the book that inspired so many of us idealistic young teachers, Savage Inequalities https://www.jonathankozol.com/ (a book every American should read!)Trinity School NYC Service Learning Program (designed by Sarah) https://www.trinityschoolnyc.org/our-programs/public-serviceCreating a Class: College Admissions and the Education of Elites by Dr. Mitchell Stevens (highly recommend!)To read more about the concept of 'thwarted belonging' as a risk factor, check out Dr. Tom Joiner's Why People Die By Suicide (this book is intense, so proceed with caution)The Pain of Social Rejection, Dr. Kipling Williams, the experiment that replicates being excluded from a game that suggests that social rejection activates the same neurological response as physical pain https://www.apa.org/monitor/2012/04/rejectionBennison Gives https://www.bennisongives.com/ If you need to buy baby clothes for a great cause!The Mattering MovementThe Mattering Movement provides powerful tools to help parents, students, and teachers untangle self-worth from achievement: it is called mattering.The Mattering MovementHome | Jonathan KozolJonathan KozolPublic ServiceBennison

In this conversation, Debbie and Lindsay discuss the importance of executive functioning skills in students and how these skills impact learning and achievement. They explore various cognitive processes that make up executive functioning, the role of emotions, and the significance of naming these skills for better understanding. The discussion also highlights the parent-child dynamic in learning, the need for structure and routines, and the importance of curiosity in overcoming barriers to learning. They emphasize that coaching and explicit instruction can help students develop these essential life skills, ultimately leading to greater academic success and personal growth.The Study Pro : https://thestudypro.com/

Steve's books on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/s?k=steven+feifer+books&hvadid=776839258289&hvdev=c&hvexpln=0&hvlocphy=9007767&hvnetw=g&hvocijid=8788978197982880536--&hvqmt=e&hvrand=8788978197982880536&hvtargid=kwd-1651058349565&hydadcr=2289_13793056&mcid=db2df93a69713d45a2b559c10525e614&tag=googhydr-20&ref=pd_sl_7s4l19r0od_eContinuing education courses by Steve https://partalks.parinc.com/b/sp/steven-feifer-20Great things we mentioned:The International Dyslexia Association https://dyslexiaida.org/Learning Disabilities Association https://ldaamerica.org/Henry Winkler talks dyslexia and about his children's book series https://www.readingrockets.org/people-and-organizations/henry-winkler https://www.aarp.org/entertainment/celebrities/henry-winkler-interview-2023/Decoding Dyslexia's guide to Starting a Grassroots Movement for universal dyslexia screenings chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.decodingdyslexia.net/wp-content/uploads/How-to-Guide-to-Start-Grassroots-Movement-for-Dyslexia.pdfThe Lab School https://www.labschool.org/The Siena School https://www.thesienaschool.org/Landmark College https://www.landmark.edu/

In this conversation, Alex Berthé discusses the importance of sports psychology for young athletes, sharing insights from his own athletic career and how they shape his work with children. He emphasizes the significance of consistency, developing systems for improvement, and the role of mindfulness and reflection in enhancing performance. Alex also highlights the value of sports beyond competition, teaching resilience, and the importance of parents in fostering a supportive environment. He introduces the Locker Ready app, designed to help young athletes prepare mentally for their training and competitions.Alex Berthe's practice Berthe Counseling https://www.berthecounseling.com/foundationAlex's App for student athletes https://www.lockerready.com/ Berthé Counseling - About Alex Berthe

Elizabeth's book, Seven Steps to Success: A Pathway for College Students with Disabilities https://www.amazon.com/Seven-Steps-College-Success-Disabilities/dp/1475864442Elizabeth's website, chock full of webinars, articles and videos https://ldadvisory.com/The Learning Disability of America's definition of learning disabilities (and why it is important not to say learning differences when you're seeking accommodations!) https://ldaamerica.org/advocacy/lda-position-papers/what-are-learning-disabilities/The K and W Guide to Colleges for Students with Learning Differences https://www.ldonline.org/ld-topics/college-college-prep/books/kw-guide-colleges-students-learning-differences

Nicola Rose is the writer and director of the beautiful new movie, Magnetosphere, about a 13 year old girl discovering her neurodivergence. Magnetosphere (which I'm naming the best middle school girl slumber party watch or "how do I make neurodiversity come alive for my students?" movie of the year) is available for streaming many places, including Amazon Prime https://www.primevideo.com/detail/Magnetosphere/0MZX0SOLUZELZH8XZZRWMSBV8V"Nicola's IMBD profile is here https://www.imdb.com/name/nm7384184/The Rotten Tomatoes critics review of Magnetosphere (certified fresh!) https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/magnetosphereThe book that inspired many aspects of the movie is Synesthesia by Dr. Richard Cytowic. An easier read is VS Ramachandran's The Telltale Brain, which has a fascinating chapter devoted to synesthesia.

Every child needs a champion who sees their strengths first.In this episode, Barry Davis, Head of the McLean School of Maryland, and Cathy Patterson, Director of Enrollment, discuss how bright students with learning differences can thrive when education emphasizes their abilities rather than their deficits. They emphasize the importance of building confidence, celebrating talents, and sharing test results openly so that students understand both their strengths and challenges. Small class sizes, strong teacher-student relationships, and safe, supportive environments are presented as essential for encouraging risk-taking and growth. The guests also explore evidence-based literacy instruction, such as Orton-Gillingham, explicit writing instruction, handwriting, and word study, alongside mindfulness practices that reduce anxiety and open space for learning. Enrichment opportunities in arts, sports, and robotics further allow students to shine, while testing is framed as a tool to guide instruction and help children face challenges with optimism.Tune in and learn how to unlock the potential of twice-exceptional learners through strengths-based education, evidence-based practices, and meaningful connections!Resources:Follow and connect with Cathy Patterson on LinkedIn.Learn more about the McLean School of Maryland on their LinkedIn and website.

Claire's Website https://www.lernerchilddevelopment.com/Follow Claire's blog: A library of over 130 articles that address the range of challenging behaviors—relevant to kids birth to 10 years. https://www.lernerchilddevelopment.com/mainblogLCD Newsletter: Free bi-monthly email that includes my most current blog and links to additional resources. This is the best way to keep abreast of Claire's content. https://www.lernerchilddevelopment.com/lcd-membershipClaire's Upcoming Book: Big Reactors: Practical Strategies for Supporting Highly Sensitive Children (available for preorder; pub date- 10/2/2025) and her first book: Why Is My Child In Charge? A Roadmap to End Power Struggles and Increase Cooperation.Follow Claire on Instagram for tips and encouragement! https://www.instagram.com/lernerchilddevelopment/?hl=en

Join Dr. Rebecca Resnik, Licensed Psychologist, for practical advice and inspiration from renowned experts in parenting, education and psychology.https://www.resnikpsychology.com/

Lee Norwood is founder of Annapolis College Consulting, a business with over 50 years of collective experience and over 500 college visits. Lee's group is dedicated to revolutionizing the college consulting industry https://annapoliscollegeconsulting.com/College Sharks, the online mentorship and support program Lee has created to guide you through the college admissions process https://collegesharks.com/Lee on social media: *Instagram https://www.instagram.com/collegesharks/*Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/annapoliscollegeconsulting/ *Tiktok @collegesharksTo access the common data set for your college of interest, start here: https://commondataset.org/Lee recommends having your student listen to the Moth podcast by NPR to get good at telling your story https://themoth.org/listenand finally, the clip from Ozark about Wyatt's College essay https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cjWRks7hsGA

● Website: https://www.launchpadforlife.org/● LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janesingleton/● Instagram: @launchpadforlife● TikTok: @launchpadforlife

Jeff Selingo's website, https://jeffselingo.com/, is full of resources for parents and professionals alike https://jeffselingo.com/resources as well as a page to sign up for his Next newsletter https://jeffselingo.com/next-newsletterBe sure to get a copy of Jeff's new book, Dream School: Finding the College that's Right for You https://www.amazon.com/dp/1668056208/?bestFormat=true&k=dream%20school%20jeff%20selingo&ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-ent-pd-bk-d_k0_1_17_de&crid=16TQ9SC9PY55D&sprefix=dream%20school%20jeffAnd I highly recommend his 2020 best seller, Who Gets in and Why: A Year Inside College Admissionshttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Z43V2RY/?bestFormat=true&k=who%20gets%20in%20and%20why%20a%20year%20inside%20college%20admissions&ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-ent-pd-bk-d_k0_1_16_de&crid=1826NP62BTFVB&sprefix=who%20gets%20in%20and%20

Iuri's website is chock full of videos, podcasts, advice, and positive wisdom for your whole family https://www.iuritmelo.comBoth parents and educators can sign up for School Pulse, a phone based mental health intervention for teens that combines clinical expertise with cool tech https://schoolpulse.com/Iuri's books--Mind Over Gray Matter: Training the Mind to Heal the Brain and Know Thy Selfie: Tips, Tricks and Tools for an Awesome Life (for teens)Iuri and I also discussed the powerful ideas of Dr. John and Julie Gottman. The Gottmans were pioneers in studying relationships, and what specifically makes them positive or negative. Check out their parenting website https://www.gottman.com/parenting/We also mentioned a fabulous book called The Anxious Generation by Dr. Jonathan Haidt, a must read for every post pandemic parent!

The University of Chicago https://www.uchicago.edu/enWesleyan University https://www.wesleyan.edu/index.html

Beth Felsen's information and resources are at Spectrum Transition Coaching https://spectrumtransitioncoaching.com/ Her course, College 101 and other online courses can be found here https://spectrumtransitioncoaching.com/courses/ A treasure trove of resources for families https://spectrumtransitioncoaching.com/the-ultimate-guide-for-parents-of-autistic-high-school-students/The book you heard me mention is called A Spectrum of Solutions For Clients with Autism by Rachel Bedard and Lorna Hecker (Eds.) Another great source of information is thinkcollege.net and the K and W Guide to Colleges for Students with Learning Differences https://www.amazon.com/Guide-Colleges-Students-Learning-Differences/dp/0525567895

Here's the website for Educational Connections, Ann's tutoring company https://ectutoring.com/Ann Dolin's webpage where you can book her to speak https://anndolin.ectutoring.com/Her book, Getting Past Procrastination is great and available on Amazon.com https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Past-Procrastination-Organized-Motivated/dp/1721938478/ref=sr_1_1?crid=386TRTUHBPTNU&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.q3bjNBZmK5S71pzz2uNkWRTCvB6PAGRtSPMZG96N84f_5L2uVTxMKriH4rP3WeC-gXAir3lP3bwrryDNcuDuGFVJ-sUp9V0-92o9cNSmksmh4F0Q1pYV9TqBLLp4vS_L.Du67RLTAv-sADzzGq5auoJ7r4sjFnAHWoYBAQkMFM2c&dib_tag=se&keywords=ann+dolin&qid=1752522055&sprefix=ann+dolin%2Caps%2C108&sr=8-1

Learn more: www.WithUnderstandingComesCalm.com where you can find a bunch of videos, blog posts, resources and a link to Julie's newsletter. She also has information about her services for gifted and 2E adults.Julie's Book, Gifted and Distractible https://www.withunderstandingcomescalm.com/gifted-and-distractible/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/withunderstandingcomescalmInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/julieskolnick/Twitter: @JulieSkolnickLinkedIn: Julie Rosenbaum SkolnickYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JulieSkolnick

Dr. Plucker's JHU homepage https://education.jhu.edu/directory/jonathan-plucker-phd/The Center for Talented Youth at JHU (highly recommend this program for accelerated learners!) https://cty.jhu.edu/The Belin Blank Center https://belinblank.education.uiowa.edu/The Davidson Institute https://www.davidsongifted.org/The National Association for Gifted Children https://nagc.org/

Dr. Russell T. Warne's website https://russellwarne.com/His books, In the Know: Debunking 35 Myths about Human Intelligence and Statistics for the Social Sciences: A General Linear Model Approach https://russellwarne.com/books/Want to take an online IQ test for adult that is actually well researched and scientifically validated? Or have a less biased tool to assess your employee or future employee's capacity for solving complex problems?Check out the RIOT https://www.riotiq.com/

Dr. Jeremy Sharp, Licensed Psychologist, is Director and founder of the Colorado Center for Assessment in Fort Collins, Colorado https://www.coloradocac.com/ His popular podcast, The Testing Psychologist Podcast, includes information all about psychological/neuropsychological testing, different psychological/neuropsychological conditions (such as learning disabilities, Autism, and ADHD), and also valuable information about building a mental healthcare business https://www.thetestingpsychologist.com/ Dr. Sharp is also a Private Practice Coach https://www.thetestingpsychologist.com/consulting/ who helps other mental health professionals develop and grow their practices without sacrificing work-life balance.

Did you know that there are now post secondary college options neurodiverse students cropping up all over the country? College is now a dream that can come true for students with Autism, LD, Executive Functioning challenges and Intellectual Disability, but planning can get overwhelming! Our guest, Dr. Laura McKenna, Transition Specialist, Consultant, and parent, and I discuss different programs, how to plan for transition, and what Laura wishes she could go back in time to tell herself as she embarked on her journey. Learn more about Laura and her upcoming book, The Autism College Connection at https://lauramckenna.com/ If you're in the DC Metro area and are seeking a transition focused psychological evaluation for your high school student, connect with Dr. Resnik and Associates at www.resnikpsychology.com or listen to my interview about Transition on The Testing Psychologist Podcast https://www.thetestingpsychologist.com/456-transition-related-resources-w-dr-rebecca-resnik/

Dr. Jonathan Singer's Loyola University of Chicago Website https://news.luc.edu/stories/faculty-experts/jonathan-singer/ Here's the link to his wonderful podcast, The Social Work Podcast https://socialworkpodcast.blogspot.com/ Dr. Singer's book, Suicide in the Schools is a MUST READ for everyone who works with kids or works in a school https://www.amazon.com/Suicide-Schools-Practitioners-Intervention-School-Based/dp/0415857031 If you're looking to start an evidence based suicide risk reduction program in your school, here's a link to information about the Signs of Suicide (SOS) program https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/about-us/collaboratory/mental-and-behavioral-health/sos

Dr. Shreya Hessler, Licensed Psychologist, is owner of the Mindset Center in Bel Air, MD (just north of Baltimore) https://mindsetcenter.com/shreya-hessler-psy-d/ Dr. Hessler is a nationally recognized specialist in anxiety disorders, evidence based treatment, and wellness. She and her colleague, Casey Giovanazzi Kutner, founded Person Before Player, a nationwide consulting practice promoting the mental health and resilience of student athletes. Through PBP, she and Casey support schools, athletes, coaches, and parents in their shared goal of helping athletes thrive. Her book, Bianca Finds Her Bounce, is a beautiful, optomistic children's book about coping with anxiety https://www.amazon.com/Bianca-Bounce-Psy-D-Shreya-Hessler/dp/0998681148 Dr. Hessler is also a widely sought after speaker and provider of continuing education to psychologists and other healthcare providers.

Ever wondered what elite college admissions coaches teach their student clients? Join expert Katherine Howitt as she gives you the inside scoop on how she helps her clients become more independent, select extracurriculars, and prep for standardized tests on their journey towards selective college admissions.Katherine Howitt, Academic Coach Website: https://www.katherinehowitt.com/academic-consulting

Join me for a deep dive into how gifted and high achieving kids learn, early signs of giftedness, characteristics of gifted learners, and specifics about what these kids need to thrive at school. I also get you up to speed on key vocabulary you'll need to know for successful advocacy. Plus, I alert you to common obstacles you're likely to encounter from people who don't grok giftedness!

Raising gifted children comes with unique challenges and rewards, so how do we help them thrive without letting their potential become a burden?In this episode of the Cultivating Excellence podcast, Dr. April Foreman, Director of Technology and Innovation at the Veterans Crisis Line of the US Department of Veterans Affairs, talks about her passion for giftedness and her experiences raising gifted children. Dr. Foreman shares how being gifted impacted her own childhood and how she navigated the challenges of raising neurodiverse children, including advocating for their educational needs. She emphasizes the importance of creating environments where gifted kids can thrive academically and socially while ensuring they receive proper support. The conversation explores topics like acceleration vs. enrichment, the emotional struggles gifted children face, and the role of structure and parental guidance. Dr. Foreman encourages parents to trust their instincts, seek professional support when needed, and avoid pathologizing gifted traits unless they cause genuine distress.Tune in as Dr. April Foreman shares her powerful insights on parenting gifted kids, advocating for their needs, and fostering both their intellect and well-being in a world that often misunderstands them! 

Is your child intellectually gifted? What does it mean to have a high IQ? In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Resnik, Licensed Psychologist, gives you the insider scoop on what IQ tests measure, what it means to be intellectually gifted, and how to make sure your child in the best position to shine when they take an IQ test.IQ testing has a controversial reputation, but they are actually great predictors of general problem solving ability when used appropriately. Individuals across cultures and all over the world recognize the concept of giftedness, and IQ is an essential aspect of assessing for giftedness. IQ scores over 132 fall in the gifted range, and then there are highly gifted ranges above that score that correspond to being in the 99th or even 99.9th percentile. Having scores in the gifted range is predictive of all sorts of positive outcomes for a person's life, such as academic achievement, creativity and even life span. Dr. Resnik also notes the importance of avoiding companies that prey on parental anxiety around testing, and gives you trustworthy advice on how to prepare a child for IQ testing.

What if the key to academic success wasn’t just about studying harder but about learning smarter?In this episode of the Cultivating Excellence podcast, Steve Feldman, Founder and Chief Growth Officer of Private Prep, shares insights on tutoring, academic coaching, and standardized test preparation, emphasizing the importance of both subject expertise and student motivation. He advises parents to involve their children in the decision to seek academic support, ensuring they are invested in the process while also developing strong study habits and executive functioning skills. Regarding standardized tests, he highlights the shift in the test-optional movement post-COVID and recommends taking full-length diagnostic tests to determine the best fit between the SAT and ACT. Steve also discusses making math engaging through real-world applications and encouraging students to develop a growth mindset rather than focusing solely on grades. Ultimately, he stresses the importance of maintaining a positive parent-child relationship by celebrating effort and progress rather than just high scores.Tune in for expert insights on tutoring, test prep, and how to help students build confidence, motivation, and long-term academic skills! 

As college admissions become increasingly competitive, understanding the role of standardized testing can give students a crucial edge. In this episode of the Cultivating Excellence podcast, Jared Friedland, founder of The Playbook, discusses the evolving role of standardized testing in college admissions and how students can strategically navigate the process to improve their chances of acceptance. He helps students navigate the challenges of standardized tests like the SAT, ACT, and PSAT while also guiding them in finding colleges where they can thrive academically, socially, and culturally. With two decades of experience, Jared has worked as an admissions reader at Dartmouth and UCLA, gaining deep insights into how colleges evaluate applicants holistically rather than simply rejecting them based on numbers. He emphasizes that the admissions process, though often stressful, doesn't have to be overwhelming and that strategic planning can significantly improve students' chances of success. Jared highlights that a strong application involves more than just grades or test scores, it requires showcasing a student’s character, achievements, and potential fit for a school’s unique academic and cultural environment.Tune in for expert insights on how students can strategically approach standardized testing to maximize their college acceptance chances! 

Parenting in the 21st century feels harder because it is harder, but what if you had the tools to navigate it with confidence?In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Resnik, founder of Rebecca Resnik and Associates Psychology Care, introduces Cultivating Excellence, a podcast for professional parents navigating the challenges of raising Gen Z and Gen Alpha children in a rapidly changing, post-pandemic world. She acknowledges the stress and uncertainty parents face and challenges negative stereotypes about modern parenting. Today’s children grow up in a complex environment shaped by digital saturation, societal instability, and educational disruptions from COVID-19, making parenting more difficult than ever. Despite these uncertainties, Dr. Resnik reassures parents that they have the power to shape their children’s character, curiosity, and resilience through intentional choices. Using the metaphor of parenting as gardening, she emphasizes that small, consistent efforts over time cultivate excellence and help children thrive in an unpredictable future.Tune in to Cultivating Excellence with Dr. Rebecca Resnik for insightful, practical guidance on raising resilient, thriving kids in today’s complex world!

Welcome to Cultivating Excellence, a podcast for smart professional parents who are passionate about their children's education, future success, and happiness! Join Dr. Rebecca Resnik, Licensed Psychologist, for practical advice and inspiration from renowned experts in parenting, education and psychology.