LAUNCH: Parenting Tips for Raising Adult Children & Building Better Relationships

Today's episode comes to you with a virtual hug. My advice today is coming from my heart. Even though I have so much to offer you, because of my education, research, consulting, interviewing, writing and creating, these next 11 minutes come from a place that one can only call pure inspiration. Warning: This is entirely my opinion. Take it for whatever it's worth. Share it with a friend. Or don't. Maybe send me an email if you feel it struck a chord. I assure you that I can handle whatever you say. And if you enjoyed it, don't hold that back either.I'm keeping this description very obscure. I'm not giving anything away. Remember to hit the subscribe button so you never a miss an episode. And if I haven't said it enough, thank you for listening. 💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

Welcome to LAUNCH! Today, my esteemed guest is Dr. Jerry Weichman, a clinical psychologist, adolescent specialist, and parenting expert who has spent the last 27 years helping  more than 6,500 families navigate some of the toughest challenges young people face today, from anxiety, depression, low self esteem, gaming addiction and more.  He's the founder of the Weichman Clinic, and the creator of the podcast Raising Families with Dr. Jerry.In today's conversation, Dr. Jerry shares his bag of mental health tools with us. We cover so many topics: how to stop overthinking, the importance of building resilience, why kids today are struggling, how to help your adult child make mental shifts, and more. You might want to take notes, because Dr. Jerry shares practical tips for developing a healthy mindset that work for the entire family. This conversation will give you hope. Remember to hit the follow or subscribe button so you never miss an episode, share it with someone you love, and as always - thank you for spending your time with me today.For all of my resources, use this link: https://hoo.be/sharijonasparentingfx.comor Visit: https://parentingfx.com/🎧Dr. Jerry’s podcast: Raising Families with Dr. JerryContact info: https://www.drjerryweichman.com/💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

These are "Show Notes" and all the links that I talk about in this episode are below.The 7 Deadliest Sins of Parenting an Adult Child are the most common behaviors that loving parents fall into, often without even realizing it. But if you're still doing them, it's quietly costing your adult child their independence, motivation, and confidence, which is making it harder for them to launch into the life they're capable of living.But you are far from alone. So many parents of adult children struggle with knowing where the line is between supportive and enabling. Not to mention the fear of pushing too hard, the guilt of how they got here, the fatigue of dealing with them, the loss of influence over them. Parenting an adult child is the hardest stage of parenting. The good news? This isn't permanent. What you don't want to hear is that it won't happen without your commitment.If you're not sure where to start, join my Free Masterclass to learn the Secrets of a Successful Living Together Agreement. Or if you're really ready to help your adult child, enroll in my Parenting Course and I'll walk you through exactly how to turn things around - not just at home, but with your relationship, their issues now, and with their future. Remember to hit the follow button so you never miss an episode and please send this to someone who needs to hear it.Thanks for listening today!Free Masterclass: The Secrets of a Successful Living Together Agreement Waitlist to LAUNCH Scripts: ParentingFX.com/launchscripts💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

Today's episode is a little different than what you're used to. It's for those of you who have been hurt by a parent, and carry the quiet, painful ache of knowing that an apology is probably never coming and how you can move forward, without repeating the toxic cycle with your own children.My guest Paula Yost calls this the Apology Ache. That deep, lingering hurt from a parent who has wounded you, and you have to accept that they are never going to acknowledge it. In fact often times, our only salvation is estrangement. Which we never want to happen with our own children. But we talk about it anyway.Paula is a clinical mental health counsellor, a lawyer, and the author of the book Tumbleweeds. This conversation is about her deeply personal and painful experiences with a mother whom she struggled with practically her whole life and how she came to terms with that relationship through the practice of Radical Acceptance which she explains so beautifully.And perhaps most importantly, we talk about breaking the generational cycle. Because so many people who were hurt by a parent carry a deep fear: am I going to do this to my own kids or can I break this toxic pattern. If you were hurt by a parent, the fear of repeating that with your own children is real and that's something I think every parent needs to hear because I don’t think any of us had a perfect childhood. So even though this episode is a bit different, I think the message is important and I hope you spend the time today to listen. Remember to hit the follow button so you never miss and episode, and please send this to a friend or family member who needs to hear it.As always, thank you for listening.P.S If you happen to read these show notes, I'm doing a FREE Masterclass on Thursday April 16th at 8 pm EST on the Secrets of a Successful Living Together Agreement - and Why Most Fail. Save your spot here; ParentingFX.com/LTA-MasterclassAbout my Guest: Paula Yost is a licensed clinical mental health counselor, an attorney and the author of Tumbleweeds, available on Amazon.com. Paula writes and speaks about what happens when families are forced to navigate broken systems and choose not to stay silent.Contact info available at https://paulayost.com/💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

If your adult child is living at home and refuses to take on any responsibilities, acting more like a hotel guest than a member of the household and you feel like you've tried everything, this episode is for you.After writing and creating an 18-page Living Together Guide and Agreement for parents of young adults who weren't participating or contributing to basic household responsibilities or anything in their life, I quickly discovered that most parents struggled to enforce it. The approach required finesse. The groundwork had to be laid first. The relationship needed work.But giving up was not an option because having responsibilities, structure, and routine isn't just important for you, your home or your adult. It's vital to their self-confidence.This short episode explains why. And in the end, I invite you to join me to take this conversation even further.Here's the link to save your spot: https://parentingfx.com/lta-masterclassRemember to hit the subscribe button, and please send this episode to someone who needs to hear it.Thanks for listening!💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

For any parent whose ever wondered whether their adult child has a video gaming addiction, and if so how they can help, this episode is for you. What may have started off as just a harmless activity turns into an all-consuming, socially withdrawn activity, where showering and eating are secondary to gaming and day/night reversal have become a way of life. Their bedrooms are their fortress, and their parents are not welcome. In this candid episode, 30-year-old Jake Uskoski shares his deeply personal experience with his addiction, his relapses and the remarkable recovery from this incredibly challenging addiction. I'm grateful to have had this conversation with Jake, who pulls back the curtain on what the emotional life of a video gaming addict looks like and how much support is needed if recovery is ever going to happen.  After this episode, you'll know for sure whether or not your young adult needs help, the extent of what they're going through, and I'm sure you will never look at their little video gaming activity the same, ever again.  I've been suggesting this episode to many young adults because I know how helpful it will be. Seeing themselves in Jake is the first step.  This is not easy to admit, but when you listen to Jake talk about his experiences, you'll really understand how important it is to share it. A special thank you to Jake Uskoski and a shout out to his mother, Elaine Uskoski who has authored 2 books on the subject (both available on Amazon):Cyber Sober: A Caregiver’s Guide to Video Gaming Addiction Seeing Through the CracksPlease remember to subscribe so you never miss an episode and definitely share this one with someone who needs to hear it... probably your adult child.Thank you for listening!💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

Today’s episode is one of the most important conversations I’ve had on this podcast because it's touches every single parent, whether your adult child is struggling or not.  We all have to come to face to face with this hard truth.That's why this is called the dirtiest word in parenting. There's a few contenders which my lovely guest and I discuss, but this one, this one is big. My guest today is Catherine Hickem, and before I tell you anything else about her credentials, she is the real deal and she's original - which for me speaks volumes - and there is not one ounce of fluff in what she says. You'll discover quickly that Catherine knows a lot about parenting adult children. As for her qualifications, Catherine is a licensed clinical social worker, seasoned psychotherapist, executive coach, and the founder of Parenting Adult Children Today. For more than 40 years, Catherine has helped families navigate complex relationships with clarity and purpose.  Catherine also has a new book coming out in 2026 called It’s Never Too Late to Be a Great Parent.This is an incredible conversation with powerful perspectives and no nonsense advice that will change the way you relate to your adult child forever.Please remember to share this episode with another parent - any parent - and of course hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.I am grateful that you listen to LAUNCH and would love to hear from you. 💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

Many parents of adult children feel powerless and think they've tried everything.Yet somehow, nothing has worked. The years have gone by and their adult child is still in the same place; at home, unmotivated, lacking confidence, and living without purpose, while everyone around them seems to be moving forward.In today’s short episode, I want to share something more personal with you. I’m going to explain why I am dedicating my time to guiding parents of young adults who are struggling and what I have created to help change that.In this episode, I’ll share my perspective on raising children and what is really needed from parents. All parents.You are far more capable of influencing change than you may believe right now.Growth can happen. You may not see it right away, but if you do the work, you will watch your adult child blossom.🌱Please share this episode with another parent, remember to hit the subscribe button, and as always Thank you for listening.Remember to email me at: [email protected] for a personal video.💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

This is my second guest who is not a parent, but a young adult, who (once again) shares their wisdom and insight into why young adults and teens struggle to connect with their parents, what they need most and offers effective approaches to turn that around. Sonia Suthar founder of Cloud9Go.com works with high-school students and parents teaching the real-world skills that schools rarely teach: public speaking, execution, emotional intelligence, and leadership.In this surprising episode, Sonia shares her strategies for improving  communication through collaboration, and the importance of having family as your support system to build confidence and self-love, so young adults feel heard and respected at home. If you’re interested;Ho'oponopono is an ancient Hawaiian practice of reconciliation and forgiveness, meaning "to make right" or "to set in balance". The modern, simplified mantra consists of four phrases aimed at taking responsibility for one's inner state to heal, clear negative emotions, and restore balance: "I'm sorry, Please forgive me, Thank you, I love you"How to connect with Sonia:www.Cloud9Go.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/soniakatara/Sonia’s TedTalk;https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hVqO3ESJ9fo&t=1sRemember to hit the follow or subscribe button so you never miss an episode. And THIS one…should be shared with your adult child, and any adult adult (not a typo) who needs to hear it. Thank you for listening! 💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

If your adult child is stuck, unmotivated, anxious, avoiding responsibility, and still heavily dependent on you, this episode asks a question most parents are afraid to consider:Can overprotective parenting impact a young adult’s ability to launch confidently into adulthood?In this conversation, we unpack what helicopter parenting is and if there's any correlation between that style of parenting and a young adults inability to move forward. Or is there more to it?This episode is not about blame. It’s about awareness. And it’s about change.Because no matter how things got here, you still have influence. And that influence means you can still help your adult child. This episode provides you with hope and suggestions. It's never to late to learn how to be the parent your adult child needs, so they can thrive in the world. Remember to subscribe, and please share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.Thank you for listening!💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

Today I’m joined by Laura Hope Whitaker, CEO of Extra Special People, a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating transformative experiences for people with disabilities and their families. Laura is a speaker, advocate, and the author of her brand new book, The Joy Exchange, Finding Life's Greatest Lessons in Those You Least Expect. This book is so beautifully written and filled with stories that will touch your heart.  Truly a must-read. Not just for you, but for your adult child too.Laura is known for her joyful approach to leadership and her ability to shift perspectives around inclusion, community, and the power of human connection. Throughout her book, Laura shows how the very individuals our culture often overlooks have the most to teach us about love, leadership, and community.In this episode, we talk about the surprising meaning behind joy,  how we can all experience it, what parents can do to reconnect with their adult children, and what they can do to feel a sense of belonging and connection again, something these young adults desperately need.I really enjoyed speaking with Laura and I'm sure this conversation will resonate with you. Remember to subscribe so you never miss and episode. And please to share it with someone who needs a little joy. About My Guest: Laura Hope Whitakerhttps://www.laurahopewhitaker.com/The Joy Exchange is available at the link below or on Amazonhttps://www.laurahopewhitaker.com/thejoyexchange100% of the books proceeds go to ESP As always, thank you for listening.💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

 In 2015, I picked up a book, read the back cover and instantly it resonated with me. As a mom raising kids of my own, I knew how easy it was to slide into the role of the overprotective mama bear, wanting to shield my babies from any discomfort. But I also knew that doing that would come at a cost. Wanting to raise resilient, confident, independent adults who could function in the world on their own was always my intention but it wasn't going to be easy. I had to be strong. And in fact for many of the years, I was raising my children on my own. When I read, How to Raise an Adult, it reinforced a concern that I was already having about the impact helicopter parenting was having on their children, and their young adults. I knew in my gut this parenting style was going to create problems down the line. In all fairness to parents who adopted this approach, the cultural message was made very clear; a good parent did everything for their child. But where did that leave kids, when their parents weren't around? Who was fighting their battles, rescuing them from school yard bullies, solving their problems? It made me uncomfortable to think that if I did that for my kids, I was leaving them without armour, and that was not what I wanted for them.  The book went on to become a New York Times bestseller, and the author did a Ted Talk called Raising Successful Kids Without Overparenting that has now been viewed over 8.2 million times. You can only imagine how deeply meaningful this episode is for me and how honored I am to have Julie Lythcott-Haims as my guest on LAUNCH . In addition to "How to Raise an Adult", Julie is also the author of "Your Turn: How to Be an Adult" and "Real American", a critically acclaimed, award-winning memoir. Julie's work spans writing, speaking, teaching, mentoring, and activism. This conversation felt less like an interview and more like a heartfelt discussion between two people who care deeply about helping parents who are living with their young adults.  We talked about what's happening in the home, the challenges parents are facing, the issues that young adults are dealing with, and what it actually takes for a family of adults to truly enjoy living together.  Sometimes the hardest part about having virtual interviews is that I never get to give my guests a hug after we've talked about such important issues. I would have loved to give Julie that hug for how open and honest she was about her family experience. I couldn't be more thankful to her.I hope you find this conversation inspiring and thought-provoking. If so, please feel free to share it with a friend or simply leave a comment.The video version of this episode will also be made available on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@sharijonaslifefxTo contact Julie, everything 💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

If your adult child is uninterested in trying anything, won't apply for jobs, avoids challenges, and is perfectly content having you  do everything for them, this episode explains why and what you can do to help. And is it ever easy!Discover the one psychological factor that determines whether young adults move forward or stay stuck, plus the specific things parents need to STOP doing and START doing to help their adults build confidence.It’s short but impactful! Thank you for listening. Please remember to hit the subscribe. 💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

Today I’m joined by Susan Raphael, an addiction and mental health clinician in private practice for over 20 years. Susan works closely with individuals, parents, and families navigating substance abuse, mental health challenges, and recovery. In this conversation, Susan shares her own personal story of addiction and recovery, bringing a powerful and honest perspective to the work she does with families every day. This episode is for any parent living with an adult child who is struggling with addiction and mental health issues, and feeling afraid, overwhelmed, and unsure how to talk about moving forward. We discuss the importance of connection, self-care, the levers of influence (love that) and where responsibility truly belongs when it comes to managing addiction and mental health. You can't have a conversation about parenting adult children, struggling and still living at home, without talking about boundaries, why they matter, and how setting clear limits is the only way to meaningful change, not just for your adult child, but for the entire family. The 25 Boundary Setting Statements that I've created are here: https://parentingfx.com/boundariesRemember to hit the follow button so you never miss an episode, please share this episode with another parent who needs to hear it. As always, thank you for listening.About my guest Susan Raphael, ICADC, CACCF, :Addiction and mental health clinician, founder and principal of Sustainable Recovery Counseling Services in Toronto. Susan is the author of What’s Wrong with My Teen? Finding Answers to Addiction and Family Crisis is available everywhere books are sold www.whatswrongwithmyteen.com  Connect with Susan: @sustainable__recovery | www.sustainablerecovery.caWebsite: www.sustainablerecovery.ca💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

Parenting an adult child who is struggling is an emotional rollercoaster. In your wildest dreams you never thought raising a young adult would be this challenging. In your mind, you thought it would be so different. Yet here you are. And it's not just your adult child you want to help,  but your relationship, how you communicate, how you connect and how work together to grow.  With over 20 years of experience in the field of psychology including a PhD in Clinical Psychology, my guest today is Dr. Anna Levy-Warren. Anna is the founder and CEO of Organizational Tutors, a nationwide network of experts who help students and adults overcome executive functioning challenges and diverse learning profiles. She's the co-founder of Dwellness, which provides in-home and in person therapy and she also leads STEEL Advising, where she provides executive functioning and leadership training to executives, entrepreneurs, and professionals. In her New York City-based private practice, Anna specializes in working with parents, couples, and families navigating high-conflict situations, ADHD, learning disabilities and emotional dysregulation.But here's what makes today's conversation so powerful: Anna isn't just speaking as an expert; she's also a parent who has walked this path herself. She knows firsthand the frustration, the guilt, and oftentimes, the helplessness that comes with having a strong-willed child with their own executive functioning challenges. In today's episode,  Anna shares concrete, actionable steps that will help you strengthen your relationship with your young adult and help them move forward. To contact Dr. Anna Levy-Warren: https://www.annalevywarrenphd.com/Please remember to hit the follow button so you never miss an episode and share this with someone who needs to hear it. As always, thank you for listening!Sidenote - did you count how many times I said “love it”? I did. 12x, maybe less. 💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

In this episode of LAUNCH, I sit down with Neal Solomon, Registered Social Worker, for one of the most honest conversations that parents of young adults need to hear.We talk openly about the real pain points parents are living in, the hard truths and why so many families feel stuck despite good intentions. We dig into what is actually going on with today’s youth, where responsibility and boundaries fit into the picture, and how fear, guilt, and over-accommodation quietly keep everyone stuck.Most importantly, this conversation provides clarity, direction, and hope.The bottom line is, parents still have agency. Their voice matters more than they realize. What they choose to say, what they choose to stop doing, and how they can show up moving forward can change the direction of their adult child’s life.If you are ready for truth bombs, tough love, honest insight, and a way forward, this episode is for you.Discussed in this episode were these tools: The Living Together Guide is available here: https://parentingfx.com/product-details/product/livingtogetherguideUnderstand Boundaries: includes 25 Ready-to-Use Boundary Setting Settings That Every Parent Needs is here -  https://parentingfx.com/boundariesRemember to hit the follow button so you never miss an episode and please share this podcast with another parent who needs to here it.As always, thank you for listening!About my guest: Neal Solomon, BA., BEd, MSW, RSWNeal has been in private practice for over 20 years. His therapeutic work focuses on mental health, anxiety, anger-management, learning difficulties, relationship issues, addictions, separation & divorce as well as grief and bereavement. He uses CBT, a Strength-Based Approach & Attachment Theory. Contact - https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/therapists/neal-solomon-thornhill-on/1433769💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

When adult children struggle to handle stress, responsibility, or uncertainty, parents want to know how to help them. But what if the most powerful influence isn’t what parents say or do for their adult children, but how they manage themselves?In this episode of LAUNCH, I’m joined by Dr. Kate Lund, licensed clinical psychologist, resilience expert, TEDx speaker and best-selling author, for a conversation that shifts the focus where it belongs. We talk how adult children learn resilience by watching how their parents handle pressure, uncertainty, and discomfort, importance of being optimized and an excellent suggestion that anyone can start doing right away.In her book Step Away, Kate Lund explores how resilience is built not through control, protection, or constant involvement, but through how parents manage their own stress, emotions, and reactions. The book challenges parents to step away from overfunctioning, emotional reactivity, and the urge to fix, and instead focus on strengthening their own capacity to tolerate discomfort, uncertainty, and imperfection.Step Away emphasizes that children of all ages can learn resilience by watching how their parents respond to stress, setbacks, and pressure. By learning to regulate themselves, parents model the very skills their children need to develop, including coping, problem-solving, and emotional flexibility. Dr. Kate’s book offers a framework for staying emotionally available and supportive, while stepping back from patterns that unintentionally weaken resilience and independence.Remember to hit the follow button and please share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.As always, thank you for listening!💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

Do you want to know why you can't set boundaries without coming across as controlling, bossy or even disappointed? It's because with every attempt, it sounds like you're trying to tell them what to do, which drives them nuts, so you've given up. The problem is that most parents confuse boundaries with rules or  threats and that's exactly why they don't work. But I have the solution. If you've tried setting boundaries with your adult children only to be ignored, dismissed, or met with pushback, this episode is exactly what you've been searching for. I'll explain why your boundaries aren't working, what message you're sending when you don't uphold them, and how to shift from avoiding conflict at all costs to using peaceful statements to express what you value, which will make the most transformational impact, not just on you and your relationship but on your adult child's future.If you want the exact language to use, so the words you choose bring you the respect and the results you want, my new mini booklet "Understanding Boundaries," which includes 25 guilt-free boundary-setting statements that every parents needs, is now available. www.parentingfx.com/boundariesPlease remember to hit the follow button so you never miss an episode, and share this with another parent who needs to hear it.As always, thank you for listening!💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

If your adult child says, "I'm an adult, you can't tell me what to do" while living rent-free under your roof, doing absolutely nothing with their life, and expecting you to take care of everything – this episode might be exactly what you need.This deeply flawed and delusional statement gets thrown in the faces of kind-hearted parents who feel powerless to respond without triggering days of silent treatments.Let’s be honest. Adulthood is not something you declare because you're over 18. It's something you demonstrate through responsibility, contribution, self-management along with having life skills, life experiences, and emotional maturity.If you're tired of walking on eggshells in your own home, if you want to reclaim your confidence and finally set the record straight so your adult child never says “I’m an adult you can’t tell me what to do” until the day they finally are – this episode gives you the exact words you need.It's time to level up your parenting and help your adult child move toward real independence.P.S For anyone interested in having the exact script, check the transcript section of the podcast you’re listening to. If you can’t find it, email [email protected], type the word SCRIPT in the subject, and the word-for-word script will be sent to your inbox. Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode and please share this with someone who needs to hear it. Thank you for listening!💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

Have you've ever wondered if your relationship with your parents shaped how you show up as a parent today? If so, you'll find this episode very interesting. I sat down with Marc Cameron, author of Understanding Your Attachment Style: The Path to Overcoming Unhelpful Patterns and Building Healthy Secure Relationships to explore how parents attachment patterns shape their relationships with their children. Attachment theory explains how our earliest relationships shape the way we connect, communicate, and respond emotionally throughout life. In this episode, Marc shares with us that our individual attachment style plays a crucial role in the quality of our relationships and is often the strongest predictor of how secure and connected we feel with others. Yet, many people remain unaware of their own attachment style - let alone how to shift from an unhealthy style to one that fosters safer, healthier, and more fulfilling relationships. Marc and I talk about the 5 insecure attachment styles and how each one can affect a parent’s behavior. We also explore the concept of attunement and why it plays such a powerful role in connecting with your adult child. In his private practice, Marc helps clients develop secure emotional connections and greater awareness. He believes that when we understand the root causes of behavior through attachment theory, meaningful growth becomes possible, not only for us, but for our  future generations as well. This conversation will helps parents better understand their own patterns, recognize what may be getting in the way, and learn that is possible to develop a more secure attachment to strengthen the relationship with their children and support them along their path toward independence. Take the Attachment Quiz to discover how your early life experiences shaped your Love Style and begin working towards a powerful and lasting change. The link is here as well as Marc's book  - https://howwelove.com/About Marc CameronMarc is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Author, Speaker, Radio cohost, and Attachment specialist who helps people transform their relationships through secure connection. Connect with Marc - https://howwelove.com/contact-us/Remember to hit the subscribe button and share this episode with someone who would appreciate learning more about their attachment style.Thank you for listening!💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

If your adult child is easily overwhelmed, has poor communication skills, struggles with most adulting responsibilities, is unwilling to leave their room and go out into the world, emotional intelligence may be the missing piece. In this episode, we break down what emotional intelligence is, how to recognize the signs in your adult, and what you can do to manage it, for yourself and for them.You will learn why their reactions often feel disproportionate or personal, and what the research shows you can do to help your adult child build the emotional skills they need to move forward in life. We talk about co-regulation, emotional awareness, stress tolerance, naming emotions, and how your approach can either escalate conflict or create the emotional safety needed for growth. If you want a calmer home, with pleasant communication, where you can make real progress toward helping them become more emotionally mature, confident and independent, this episode will give you the tools and insight to begin that shift today. Remember to hit the follow button so you never miss an episode and as always, thank you for listening!💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

If your adult child is struggling to make friends, feels socially anxious, avoids real-life interactions, or seems unsure how to build meaningful connections, this episode will give you clarity and direction. Many parents assume social skills are something young adults simply pick up, but the truth is that these skills must be understood, taught, and practiced in real life. Social skills are so important. They shape confidence, emotional wellbeing, communication, relationships, and ultimately contribute to a young adult’s ability to live independently.In this conversation, I speak with Mara McLoughlin, Founder and Program Director of IRL Social Skills, about why so many young adults find social situations difficult, why belonging matters more than “perfect” social performance, and what parents can do to help. Mara explains the hidden challenges young adults face, what masking looks like, and why social cues can feel overwhelming or confusing for those who have never received explicit teaching.If you worry about your young adult’s friendships, communication, or ability to connect in the real world, and why it's so important to address these issues, this episode is for you.About Mara McLoughlin and How to Connect With Her:Mara McLoughlin, MS, CCC-SLPFounder and Program DirectorWebsite -  https://www.irlsocialskills.com/ Contact -  [email protected] - https://www.irlsocialskills.com/irl-blogPhone - (971) 373-4836Mara is a highly respected speech language pathologist with more than 15 years of experience helping autistic teens and young adults communicate, connect, and express themselves. Mara and her team developed IRL Social Skills to help teach teens and young adults across the United States the social skills they need to build real-world connections, and they’ve been doing that important work since 2021. Please reach out to discover how you can help your young adult and let her know you heard her on LAUNCH (she'll love that!).Remember to hit the FOLLOW button and please share this episode with another parent who needs to hear this.Thanks for listening!💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

If your adult child is unmotivated, uninterested, lacks direction, lives without purpose, ambition or desire to do anything with their life, this episode will speak directly to you. So many young adults today have lost their spark. They feel disconnected, bored, and uninterested in almost everything, except maybe gaming. They have no goals, no plans and no passion for anything. It is nothing short of heartbreaking for a parent to watch. And the worst part is, you can't understand why. This is not the child that you remember. The light inside of them has dimmed and they seem so terribly unhappy.Julia Black, author of Lights On Learning, offers a powerful way to understand what is really going on inside your adult child. She explains why so many young adults enter a lights off state, how they can become shutdown and why it is often mistaken for laziness. Her work shows that when a young adult discovers what lights them up, everything changes. Motivation grows. Confidence rises. They become more connected, more capable and more willing to step into their own life. It's as if an entirely different person emerges.Personally, I found this conversation to be one of the most enlightening episodes so far, providing hope, optimism and unlimited possibility - once you understand the switch that is missing in your adult child's life. You have so much power to help light them up, you'll be shocked. I'm certain that you will learn something you haven't before, and this episode will truly be your guiding light. No pun intended.How to Contact Julia Blackhttps://www.lightsonuniverse.com/contact-usTake the Free Scorecard: https://www.lightsonuniverse.com/lights-on-offeringsLights on Learning is HEREThe article by Dr. Kate Lund about Julia Black is HERE "Raising Resilient Kids: Julia Black of 'Lights on Learning' On Strategies for Nurturing Emotional Strength in Children."Please remember to hit the follow button so you never miss an episode, and I always hope you share these episodes with anyone who needs to them.With gratitude,Shari💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

In this episode, we’re talking about the power of community, and why helping your adult child reconnect with others may be one of the most transformative steps you can take because the research is clear: meaningful relationships are the strongest predictors of happiness, mental well-being and longevity.You’ll learn what decades of studies reveal about why social connection matters so deeply, and more importantly, 5 ways that you can help your adult child step out of isolation and start building genuine friendships, purpose, and belonging.I’ll also share ways for you to find your own circle of support because both of you deserve to feel seen, connected, and part of something bigger.If your home feels quiet, heavy, or disconnected, this episode will remind you that healing begins with community - one relationship at a time.Remember to hit the follow button and to share this episode with anyone who needs to hear it. Thank you for listening! 💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

If you’re the parent of an adult child who has considered, possibly even attempted suicide, this episode is for you. If your adult child is severely depressed and you worry about whether they've considered suicide, this episode is for you. However, if this is not your adult child, I know that you will still find it incredibly interesting because my guest is not just an expert on the subject, but has lived through this experience and her story is deeply moving and inspiring.Mental health advocate and speaker Tara Rolstad, is the author of What to Do Right Now When Your Child Is Suicidal, a step-by-step guide for parents facing one of the most frightening times of their lives.She's also the founder of the Parenting & Mental Health conference and has partnered with NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. In this highly sensitive episode we talk about what parents can do to keep their child safe, calm, and supported through a suicidal crisis.You’ll learn how to:Respond when your child expresses suicidal thoughtsCreate immediate safety and find professional helpRecognize and trust the warning signs many parents dismissWho to turn to when you’re scared and overwhelmedWhy you should never lose hope  while supporting their recoveryThis is one of the most important conversations I’ve ever shared and if your family is in crisis, there is a path forward.Remember to hit the follow button and PLEASE share this episode with any parent that might need to hear it.Suicide Hotline: 988How to Connect with Tara Rolstad:Tara Rolstad -Mental Health Expert, Speaker, AuthorEmail: [email protected]: TaraRolstad.comClick here to buy Tara's book: What to Do Right Now When Your Child is Suicidal💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

Today marks one year that this podcast was born and I am celebrating it with a very special guest.In this heartfelt episode, a 25-year-old young adult shares her honest insight into what it’s really like to grow up today, the challenges, the pressures, the mental energy, the importance of communication, self-care, friendships, therapy and most importantly what young adults need from their parents to feel seen, supported, and understood. Often times, the deepest truths come from the people living it. This candid and most revealing conversation offers clarity, wisdom, and perspective that every parent of an adult child will appreciate. If you struggle communicating or understanding what your adult child needs from you, this episode will enlighten you in more ways than you can imagine. With a surprise twist in the end, you will discover that being honest and vulnerable as a parent, will only bring you closer to your children. We are not perfect, but working on becoming better parents by learning what our adult children need and want from us, is the most rewarding feeling - at least it is for me. Remember to hit the follow button so you never miss an episode, and please share it with another parent - possibly even with your adult child.About My Guest; Andie Toderovitzwww.andietoderovitz.comEmail: [email protected] Today - Contact AndieOn social media -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapywithandie/YouTube: @therapywithAndieTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@therapywithandie💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

Parental estrangement is one of the most painful and complex experiences a parent can go through, especially when an adult child goes no contact. It’s a situation filled with unanswered questions, shame, guilt, and the aching silence of disconnection.In this follow-up episode, we reconnect with a mother who previously shared her personal experience with estrangement from her adult children. This time, she returns with an update, but we’re not here to give away the ending. Instead, we talk about what happens when a parent chooses to do the inner work; the self-reflection, the healing from childhood wounds and the growth. If you’re struggling with estrangement from your adult child, wondering if things will ever change, or questioning whether all your effort makes a difference, this conversation is for you.To Watch the Video version on YouTube, click HERETo contact my guest Crystal Allon:Intensive Healing CoachEmail: [email protected]://snipfeed.co/crystalclear-coachingTo order Crystal's 14 page e-book, Understanding Estrangement - A Workbook for Parents, click HERERemember to enter the coupon code: LAUNCH50 for 50% OFFPlease hit the follow button so you never miss an episode and share this with a parent who needs to hear it.Thank you for listening!--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

If you’ve tried everything and your adult child is still struggling to launch, you’re not alone. You’re part of a very large group of parents quietly suffering in silence, wondering what else they can possibly do.Today, I revisit my very first “Failure to Launch” episode and go through the 15 signs that reveal just how serious things are at home for your adult child. I explain why, if nothing has worked so far, what you can do differently to finally see change. The question is, how long will you keep waiting for them to rise up and become the confident, capable adult you know they can be?Sign up for the WAITLIST here!💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

Isolation has quietly become one of the most serious threats to young adults today. In this episode, I’m joined by author and speaker Elaine Uskoski to talk about how loneliness and social disconnection are impacting kids today.The U.S. Surgeon General recently declared loneliness a public health crisis, warning that social isolation can raise the risk of depression, addiction, heart disease, dementia, and even premature death. But for many young adults, spending hours alone in their room - gaming, streaming, or scrolling -  has replaced real-life connection and the impact runs deeper than you know.Elaine’s recent blog post, “How Isolation Can Breed Gaming Addiction: The Rat Park Experiment,” brings this into sharp focus, and in Episode 22, I also talked about the powerful Rat Park study, which showed that social connection and environmental stimulation are essential to our well-being.  Both speak to the same truth: when a young person lacks real connection, they’ll search for it elsewhere,  and too often, that ‘elsewhere’ becomes a dark place of addiction and depression. If you know a young adult who’s withdrawn, disengaged, struggling to connect, and spending too much time alone in their room, online gaming, scrolling social media or watching videos this episode will be a wake-up call.How to reach Elaine:Email: [email protected]: https://eyespyhealth.ca/Elaine's Blog Post:https://eyespyhealth.ca/how-isolation-can-breed-gaming-addiction-the-rat-park-experiment-t/Elaine's Book (mentioned in the episode):Cyber Sober: A Caregiver’s Guide to Video Gaming Addiction - https://eyespyhealth.ca/cyber-sober/Thank you for listening!💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

Most parents I speak to share the same story; their young adult has so much potential but struggles with low self-confidence, fear of failure, lack of motivation, anxiety, and dependence that keeps them from moving forward in life.In this episode, we’re talking about what confidence really is, how it shows up when it’s missing, and why it’s one of the most powerful traits your adult child can develop. More importantly, you’ll learn 8 confidence-boosting strategies for adult children that are simple, effective, and backed by years of research.Each strategy gives you a concrete way to help your adult child to build up their self-confidence and begin creating real independence.🎧 Tune in to learn how to start making small changes that lead to big growth and help your adult child finally step into the confident, capable person they’re meant to become.🎁 Don’t forget to grab your FREE Confidence Boosting Cheat Sheet with all 8 strategies that you can start using right away.Here's the link: https://parentingfx.com/pages/confidence-tipsPlease don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions!💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

In this episode, I sit down with transformational life coach Nicole Weston to talk about the mother wound and how the relationships we had with our mothers continue to influence our identity, our confidence, and how we show up as parents. Nicole shares the signs that we may be carrying an unhealed mother wound, and discussed how this can affect the way we raise our own children. Most importantly, Nicole offers insight and practical ways to begin the healing process, so we can break old patterns and step into parenthood with more clarity and confidence.Listen in as we share personal experiences about our own moms, and the unexpected impact their passing had on us.How to connect with Nicole Weston:https://www.nicoleweston.ca/https://www.nicoleweston.ca/contact💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Janet Krebs, speaker, HR consultant, educational strategist, and 4X best-selling author who empowers parents and influencers to lead with confidence, self-reliance, and heart, blending practical leadership tools with real-world parenting strategies.We talk about why parenting is leadership and how parents can raise strong, confident, and independent adults. Janet shares her insights on the essential life skills kids need to thrive, the 3 C’s every parent should know, how to instill responsibility, and why it’s so important for parents to remain leaders regardless of their child’s age.If you’re a parent wondering how to help your young adult grow in confidence, self-reliance, and independence, this conversation will give you the tools and mindset to make lasting changes in your parenting approach.What you’ll learn in this episode:Why parents must lead at every stage of their child’s lifeThe 3 C’s that help kids thriveHow to instill responsibility without oversteppingParenting as leadership and what it looks like in daily lifeHow to raise confident, independent young adults who are ready to thriveThis episode is for parents of teens, young adults, and adult children who want to build stronger family relationships and prepare their kids for independence.How to contact Janet:www.JanetKrebs.comEmail: [email protected]_________________________________________________________________________________💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

If you grew up with a narcissistic parent or experienced childhood trauma, you may still feel the effects today most notably in how you parent your own children.In this episode of LAUNCH, I sit down with Certified Inner Child Reparenting Coach Maria Riegger to talk about how healing past trauma can not only transform the way you raise your kids but build an "unshakeable" foundation. We cover what it really means to heal childhood trauma, how unresolved wounds from a narcissistic mom or dad can impact your parenting, and why reparenting yourself  (also explained) is the key to becoming a more connected and compassionate parent. Maria shares practical advice on understanding and setting healthy boundaries, breaking free from one's past, and creating a deeper bond with your children built on trust and respect, for who they are. It is invaluable for parents to have that connection with their child, and if you’re struggling with it, the reason may be that there’s healing you still need to do.If you’ve ever wondered how your own childhood experiences affect your parenting or how healing from trauma can help you connect with your child in a healthier way this incredible episode is for you.Please share it with someone who needs to hear it, and I know that many parents do. They will thank you. Remember to hit the FOLLOW button so you never miss an episode!How to Connect with Maria Riegger:Email: [email protected]  Blog: www.lawschoolheretic.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-riegger-esq/ Instagram: http://instagram.com/rieggemr Amazon Author page: https://amzn.to/2RS3YMU Audiobooks: https://lawschoolheretic.com/audiobooks/ Maria's Article (that I quoted from): https://www.brainzmagazine.com/post/why-your-childhood-trauma-makes-you-a-better-parent💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

Are you a mature parent wondering if you’re financially prepared for retirement? Maybe you still have a few working years ahead, but you know planning for your retirement should be a priority. Or perhaps retirement is already on your mind, but you’re worried it could be delayed because your adult kids are still living at home.My guest today is Eric Mangold, founder of Argosy Wealth Management. I'll warn you, this might not be the sexiest interview - I mean, who loves talking about money? But, it is an important one and Eric does a great job answering questions like, Will I have enough money? When can I retire? And, should I tell my kids about what - if any - will be left for them when I'm not around anymore. These are some of the biggest financial concerns mature parents face.Eric shares his expert advice on how to feel more confident about your retirement, what steps you can take right now to strengthen your finances, and how to protect yourself from running out of money. We also talk about what parents can teach their young adults about money and how they can build strong money habits for the future.If you’re worried about how you’ll retire, unsure how to save, how much you’ll need, or what steps to take next; this conversation will give you clarity and practical direction. Click here to watch this Episode on YouTube: Reach out to Eric (and tell him you found him here - He'll LOVE that!)Eric Mangold, CWSFounder, Wealth [email protected]://www.emangold.com/Cell: (201) 232-0676Phone: (973) 285-3520_____________________________________________________________________________________________💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

One of the hardest parts about being a parent is watching your adult child move through life feeling hopeless, stuck in a negativity loop about how bad their life is. You can’t give them confidence or purpose but you can model a practice proven by neuroscience to change the brain’s chemistry. In this episode, I'll explain how something as simple as practicing gratitude impacts their brain, interrupts their ruminating thoughts, lifts their mood, reduces their worries, improves their sleep, and even restores hope. As always, I'll being sharing simple, practical ways that you can model gratitude and in so doing, guide your young adult to do the same. If they are moping around, feeling purposeless and discouraged, this episode will show you how the daily practice of gratitude can open the door to hope and possibility.Let the neurotransmitters show you how!Please share this episode with someone who needs a boost. 💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

Resilience and emotional regulation are two of the most critical life skills a young adult needs, but how do they develop and what role do parents play?In this episode, I sit down with Miki Johnston, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience working with teens, young adults, and their families. Together, we explore why so many young adults today struggle with handling emotions, coping with setbacks, and bouncing back from life’s challenges and what parents can do to help.We break down what emotional regulation and resilience are, how these skills are shaped in the home, why modeling matters more than lecturing, and how Dr. Kenneth Ginsburg’s 7 C’s of Resilience can guide your parenting approach.If you want to raise a young adult who can manage stress, make healthy decisions, and thrive in the real world, this conversation will show you where to start.How to contact my  Guest.Miki Johnston  MSW, LCSWTherapist, Speaker, [email protected]: MikiJohnstontherapy.com💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

Divorce is never easy but what you never expected was how it would impact your adult children. In this episode, Divorce Coach, Therapist, Mediator, and Co-Parenting Expert Jill Barnett Kaufman joins me to talk about what parents need to know when navigating divorce. We touch on so many issues; the benefits of mediation, the importance of communication, managing the change in living arrangements, not getting in the middle, the guilt, the money and more. Whether your divorce is high-conflict or amicable, the impact on your family is one of life's biggest upsets, but there is always a silver living - which we talk about, too.If you’re worried about how your divorce will affect your adult kids or you’re already in the middle of it, this episode will give you practical advice, honest answers, and compassionate guidance to help you manage this transition and protect your relationships moving forward. Remember to share this episode with someone who needs to hear it and SUBSCRIBE so you never miss an episode.If you feel like leaving a comment, I would love to hear from you! 🫶Here’s how to contact my Guest today:Jill Barnett Kaufman, MSW, LCSWDIVORCE COACH, THERAPIST & CO-PARENTING EXPERTContact: [email protected]  www.divorcecoachjill.comIG: divorcecoachjill  FB:divorceandcoparentingexpert💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

Sometimes the most powerful parenting lessons don’t come from experts or books, they come from the kids who have already lived through the consequences of what they didn’t get at home. Decades ago, I read an article about a group of troubled youth who shared what they wish their parents had done differently and what they needed the most from them. Their words are just as relevant today as they were back then.  I want to share their suggestions with you as I believe they echo a truth we can’t afford to ignore and you'll understand why every parent needs to hear these 10 pieces of advice today.Change starts with you.Remember to hit the + button to follow. Not only does it tell me you like the podcast, but you'll get notified every time I drop an episode. Big hugs today. 💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

Have you ever heard terms like “boundaries,” “holding space,”  or “emotional co-regulation,” and thought to yourself, “They keep throwing those words around but I really don’t know what they mean." How can you ever practice something when no one really explains them?I got you. In this episode, I break down 15 of the most common therapy terms that parents of adult children often hear but don't understand. These phrases are everywhere in parenting conversations and online advice, but without context, they can be confusing or even misused.Whether you’re trying to improve communication, reconnect, or just better understand your adult child’s emotional world, this episode will help. You’ll learn what these popular psychology and self-help buzzwords actually mean, why they matter, and how they can be applied to your relationship in a real, meaningful way.If you want to feel more confident in the way you speak, respond, and relate to your adult child, this episode is a must-listen.Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode, and if you know someone who will appreciate it, please share. Thanks for listening!P.S. Podcasting is great, but it's also like talking into a cavernous cavern. (I went hiking and climbing through them the other day, so my reference is for real!) My point is, I have no idea if anyone is listening, so if you want to reach me, tell me what you think, share some topics with me that you'd love to me to talk about - or find guests to talk about, I'd love to hear from you, love to hear from you, love to hear from you. (Get it? That's an echo.)[email protected]💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

If your adult child has a learning disability and feels stigmatized, unmotivated, and has a "life isn't fair" attitude, or perhaps your adult child simply makes excuses for their lacklustre life and spends a lot of time feeling sorry for themselves, you better believe this episode is for you.Michelle Steiner’s story is exactly what every parent needs to hear if they feel bad for their young adult because they believe the narrative that was told to them when their child was first diagnosed.Michelle could have believed what her teachers told her when she was younger, that she wouldn’t be able to go to college or get a good job because of her learning disability. But she nor her parents would accept that. If you’ve been caught in the trap of believing your child "can’t", this conversation will make you think again. Whether your adult child is struggling with failure to launch, or you’ve quietly stopped believing they can ever live independently, this episode will open your eyes to how far someone can go when the people who care about them stop making excuses and start believing in their ability to rise.Michelle Steiner’s story isn’t just inspirational, it’s a mindset shift for every parent who’s been told their child won’t succeed. In this honest, motivational interview, Michelle shares what it was like growing up with a learning disability and how the support around her made all the difference.If your adult child is stuck or caught in a cycle of self-pity, this conversation will challenge you to stop making excuses and start seeing what's truly possible.Please share this episode with any parent who needs their faith restored in their adult child's ability to find something in their life that lights them up. Never give up, is the underlying them in this episode.Remember to hit the follow button so you always get notified when a new episode is available. Thanks for listening!Watch this interview on YouTube:https://youtu.be/6i5k1xsH5P4?si=LgFTtKZzT_ilm9R9How to Reach Michelle Steiner:https://www.michellesmission.com/💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

The link to The Living Together Guide is here - https://parentingfx.com/product-details/product/livingtogetherguideLiving with your adult child is either difficult or it's driving you crazy, but it doesn’t have to be that way. You think you've tried everything, but you've only used your words and unfortunately, they don't carry any weight.  In this episode, I share the 5 essential pillars every parent needs to have in place to raise a respectful, responsible, and independent young adult while they’re still living under your roof. You’ll discover how these pillars create the foundation for mutual respect, shared responsibilities, and long-term independence. Plus, I’ll introduce you to a powerful parenting resource that offers you the perfect solution that includes a step-by-step framework to help you set expectations and create a home environment where your young adult can grow, contribute, and  become ready to live on their own one day. Without this in place, your home might always be a battlefield of resentment, entitlement and complacency. This gives you the opportunity to change that and live in harmony with your adult child for as long as you both want. 💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

What if I told you that bullying and gaslighting don’t just leave emotional wounds - they actually damage the brain? My guest today, Dr. Jennifer Fraser, is an educator, researcher, and author who has written 2 books about how these emotionally abusive experiences can rewire a child’s brain in ways that last into adulthood. In The Bullied Brain (available now) and The Gaslit Brain (being released in November 2025), Jen explains how these forms of harm don’t just hurt feelings, they can actually alter the brain. However, because our brains are "neuroplastic" these wounds can be healed. This episode will tell you how.Join me as Jen opens up about how bullying and gaslighting impacted both her son and herself, and what she did to move past it.For parents wondering why their grown child still struggles with confidence, motivation, or trust, this conversation might answer your deepest concerns.Whether you’re a parent, educator, or simply curious about the power of the human brain to recover, you’ll find this conversation inspiring and full of hope.This is one episode you won’t want to miss and you might want to share. If you would like to watch this interview, it's available on YouTube:https://youtu.be/fw57su28ZvsContact Info for Dr. Jen Fraser:Email [email protected] https://www.bulliedbrain.com/Preorder The Gaslit Brain https://www.amazon.com/Gaslit-Brain-Gaslighting-Institutional-Complicity/dp/1493090925 Psychology Today series https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/the-bullied-brain 💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

I asked parents of struggling adult children to tell me what they think is really going on and they delivered. In this episode, I reveal the most common worries, frustrations and obstacles that parents are seeing in their adult kids, and what they believe is truly holding them back. If what these parents are saying resonates with you, feel free to leave a comment. If you're ready for guidance, please reach out. If you're hoping for solutions, you're in the right place. After you listen to the episode, if you're interested in the resource that I talk about, here's the link. You can read all about The LAUNCH Guide:https://parentingfx.com/products/the-launch-guideThe Launch Guide is a 15 page, job search accountability booklet that offers tools and suggestions to help young adults manage the challenges of job hunting by keeping them focused, productive, and moving forward. There's even a job search tracking spreadsheet that is editable and printable, which you can participate in.What makes it unique is its ability to build momentum, confidence, and responsibility, while they search for a job.There isn't anything more damaging to a person's self confidence than sitting around feeling incompetent, unemployable, and lonely. Don't let them hide away in their rooms, wasting their lives, when there is so much they can do with their time.Please send this episode to a parent who needs to hear it, and mention The LAUNCH Guide link to them as well. Young adults should not be left alone in their rooms. Nothing positive will come from that.💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

If your home stresses you out, your life feels out of control, your adult children are miserable - hiding inside their messy bedrooms - and you’re not sure how much longer you can survive the chaos, this heartfelt conversation will inspire you.In today’s episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with a courageous mom who made the greatest change in her life, and in doing so, helped her daughter turn her's around.This is a true story of one mother’s journey to bravely follow her heart, because she knew that if she didn’t, neither she nor her daughter might ever find happiness.When you see your adult children are not thriving and you know that it's because of what is going on in your home or how you're being treated, you find the strength to take the boldest steps. It is what every parent should do when they are suffocating and their children are too. How can your adult children respect you when the people around you don’t? How can they feel empowered to grow when you’re living so small?If you want your adult children to thrive, the path forward doesn’t start with them - it starts with you.👉 If you’re a parent with a story to share, I’d love to hear from you because your experience could be exactly what another parent needs to hear.💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

So, your adult child lives at home but does nothing all day. Seriously, nothing. They have no job, no interests, no plans, no life. You're tired of asking them, tired of nagging, losing patience and deep down, you wonder; will I ever get to retire? You're past the point where it's just a phase. All you hear are excuses. While some might be valid, you can't help but wonder - how can they be okay living their life like this? Well, I've got news for you. And it's not good.There is a whole community of young adults who are perfectly content with this lifestyle. They don't tell YOU that. But amongst themselves, they think it's okay. They even have a name for themselves, and it's NEET. And no, I did not mispell that. But it is sort of ironic.In this short episode, I reveal to you what NEET means, and what you can do about it. Because if you know that your adult child has no interest in ever working, or planning their future, and they're just hoping you'll let them live out their years in their bedroom, where the #$%&! does that leave you? 💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

If your adult child feels lost, unmotivated, and unsure about their future, you might love this episode  - especially if your young adult is struggling to find out what they want to do and which career would "light them up". I’m speaking with Kristin Clark, a Career Exploration Coach who uses the CliftonStrengths assessment (which I mentioned in Episode #25), along with her own unique formula, to help young adults better understand where their interests can take them. We talk about why so many young adults lack the confidence when it comes to choosing a career path, how you can support this exploration process and what Kristen can do to help your adult child believe there is something out there that truly suits who they are and what they love. If your young adult feels stuck and hopeless because they think there is no career for them, this conversation is just what you need to help them discover their strengths and move forward with confidence.Here's the link to Mama Bear Legal where you can get the power of attorney documents that Kristen mentioned during the episode:https://share.mamabearlegalforms.com/5cvgsKristen has helped so many young adults. If you want to contact her, everything you is below (included a free download). Please let her know that you listened to her on LAUNCH!Website:  https://www.KristinClark.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/KristinClarkCoachingTikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@kristinclark.careercoachFree Download: Career Conversations Workbook Bundle (a $28 value)The workbooks include conversation starters, activities, books/podcast recommendations, and much morehttps://www.coachaccountable.com/offering/PkHIycLGqQOelf6IEbFGH82Zbe9sINn💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

You’ve heard it said, “You’re only as happy as your saddest child,” and perhaps this is your mantra. But what if that belief is holding you back from being the parent that your adult child needs? Can you lead them through their struggles and help them overcome their fears when you feel as bad as they do? Today, we’re talking about emotional enmeshment; what it is, how to recognize it, and how to start untangling yourself from your adult child’s emotions, while  loving and guiding them every step of the way.From this episode:A few gentle reminders to ease you through this process of separating your emotions from your adult child's:My child doesn’t need me to feel what they’re feeling. They need me to lead them through it.My child doesn’t want me to be weak.They want me to show them emotional strength.My child won’t learn or grow or change If I just let them stay stuck and lost.My child needs a parent who can lead with confidence. And that’s me.__________________💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

Walking on eggshells, afraid to set boundaries, worried about pushing your young adult too hard and constantly second-guessing yourself is EXHAUSTING. There’s got to be a better way. It might sound cliché, but there are so many parents who are in the same boat as you, trying to do the right thing for their young adult, but nothing is working. Maybe it’s not what you’re doing, but how you’re doing it. You’ve lost your power. Your self confidence as a parent is non-existent. You live in constant fear of upsetting them and you know what? They can tell. In this episode, I’m joined by my new friend and parenting coach Kim Muench. Back in Episode 19, she shared her personal story about her son’s struggle with alcohol addiction. If you haven’t listened yet, I encourage you to. You’ll find it incredibly inspiring. This time, Kim and I are talking about a different topic, one that touches every parent with an adult child who is struggling. When our children aren’t happy, we aren’t either. We want to help, but we don’t know how. The answers however, are not as elusive as you think.The problem is you’ve lost your confidence. In it’s place is fear, worry, and this gut-wrenching sense of helplessness.  But today’s conversation might change all that. So go for a walk, or find a quiet space and join Kim and I as we share our stories, reflect on how we were parented, and offer the insight and tools that can help you start parenting with confidence.The full interview is available on YouTube. Here's the link: https://youtu.be/ZIjhVEYjLcYIf this episode resonated with your, we'd love to know! Remember to share this with someone who might need to hear it. And, hit the Follow button so you never miss an episode. 💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

"I hate you! You're the worst Mom in the world!" Did you ever say that to your parent when you were a kid? Or maybe you were on the receiving end; watching your 5-year-old, arms crossed, storming off in protest because you wouldn’t let them bring their stuffed animal to school. They’ll get over it, you thought. And they did.Fast forward 20 years, no more plush toys, no more explosive dramatics. Just silence. You have no idea what’s going on inside their head. They're quiet now. Almost all the time. Except when they want something. You can’t help but wonder if they even like you. That look on their face when you ask them to do something, you'd think it was physically grueling work. Put your towels in the hamper – that’s all. Do you ever wonder what your adult child  thinks of you? What do they say about you behind your back? Are you still “the worst parent in the world” - but for different reasons? You can spend the next 5 years or 50 years, never knowing, or maybe you’ll find out when they tell you their therapists thinks you've traumatized their childhood. Maybe they've traumatized your parenthood, you think. Not out loud of course. Here’s the truth, so brace yourself. You will never truly have a meaningful and authentic relationship with your adult child if you don’t know how they really feel about you, as their parent. If you're ready… this episode is for you.💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...

What does it really mean to "meet your kids where they are"—and what happens when you do? Every single child is unique. Correction. Every human being is unique. The difference is, a child has a better chance of holding onto their uniqueness, discovering their individual strengths, and walking their own path, if they have a parent who is willing to nurture that. Many adults are too far gone. (Sorry for my brutal honesty). They've been  immersed in the expectations and timelines of a society that doesn't favor diversity. Conformity has ruled their lives for so long. And unfortunately they expect their children to do the same. But if you are a parent like my guest Anita Allen, you embrace your children and meet them where they are, with your whole heart.In this episode, I asked my guest very personal questions, and held space for her to share her inspiring parenting journey with us. I truly appreciated listening to how Anita learned to ignore timelines, trust her instincts, and support her children’s unique paths of self-discovery, growth and independence - on their terms. Believe me, every parent can learn something from Anita.Whether you're raising a neurodivergent child or a neurotypical one - and the differences will be made very clear in this episode, Anita’s beautiful insights will stay with you. Maybe they'll even inspire you. If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re doing enough, doing too much or doing what's right for your child—this episode is for you. I am so grateful that I was able to get to know Anita. I hope you listen to her, right till the end, because it just gets better and better. Finally, if you know someone who can benefit from Anita's experience and her parenting approach please share this. It could change a child's life. ___________________________________________________How to Connect With Anita AllenEmail: [email protected]: www.anitaallen.caHorse Among Zebras: anitaallen.substack.com💻 Shari's Parenting Course is now OPEN!  “Journey to Independence: A Step-by-Step Roadmap to Guiding and Launching Your Adult Child.” For more information and where to sign up, visit: https://parentingfx.com/parentingcourseDo you want to know if your adult child is struggling with Failure to Launch? Grab the FREE Failure to Launch Checklist here:  🗣️One-on-One Consultations are available. Click here!Email me if you have any questions at: [email protected]🎙️Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss an episode. Shari can be found on Instagram & TikTok Search @sharijonaslifefxYouTube has all of the interviews available to watch! CLICK HERE...