Nurturing the Mind and Heart: Salesian Wisdom for Raising Teen Girls

In this insightful episode, Kati and Ellen chat with science and math teacher Michal Kolpak about the delicate balancing act of caring for aging parents and teenage daughters, emphasizing the importance of communication, self-care, and family inclusion. Discover practical tips for managing multiple generations, fostering independence in teens, and staying resilient through life's surprises.

In this episode, Kati and Ellen host a compelling discussion with Mary McVearry Austin ‘99, a pelvic health physical therapist, exploring menopause, teenage health, and the importance of self-care. They share practical advice, scientific insights, and compassion-driven perspectives to support women and families through life's transitions.

In this conversation, Kati and Ellen explore the significance of Easter, the meaning of being resurrection people, and how faith and hope can guide us through life's crosses. We offer insights into spiritual growth, family traditions, and the symbolism of rebirth during spring.

Mike Williams, leading trial lawyer and partner with Kirkland & Ellis, spoke to Georgetown Visitation as part of our Fides et Scientia - faith and knowledge - speaker series, sharing his experience and lessons from his pro-bono work, representing inmates on death row. He shares his love for his family and his fight for the dignity of all people, even in very difficult circumstances.

In this conversation, Dr. Liz Turner discusses her journey in music education, emphasizing the importance of joy in singing and the role of the arts in community building. She shares insights on developing confidence in young performers, the empowerment that comes from theater, and the life lessons learned through the arts. The conversation highlights the significance of teamwork and collaboration in performances, concluding with reflections on the joy and growth experienced by students in their artistic endeavors.

In this conversation, Kati and Ellen discuss the importance of creating a nurturing and safe home environment for children as they grow. They emphasize the need for intentionality in home design, particularly in how spaces are personalized with family art and memories. The discussion also covers the significance of comfort and functionality in furniture choices, encouraging social interaction among children, and fostering a spirit of generosity and hospitality in the home. Additionally, the incorporation of spirituality into home decor is highlighted as a way to create a meaningful living space.

At Georgetown Visitation’s Salesian Motherhood Workshop, speaker Krista Simpson Anderson speaks about her journey of marriage and motherhood, then being suddenly widowed and how she relearned to embrace joy, to mother her children, and to trust God even in the grief and sorrow of life. Krista co-founded The Unquiet Professional to support military families and survivors and founded Brave Group, LLC to help educate the community on the importance of preparing for the unexpected.

In this engaging conversation, Kati, Ellen, and a guest, longtime Visitation staff member Arjetta Faulkner-Ekandem, explore the multifaceted nature of prayer and its significance in personal and communal life. Arjetta shares her journey of developing a personal prayer life, emphasizing the importance of direct communication with God. The discussion delves into how to listen for God's voice amidst life's busyness, the strength found in prayer during challenging times, and the role of prayer in teaching children about faith. The conversation highlights various forms of prayer, the importance of authenticity, and the impact of mentorship in spiritual growth.

At Georgetown Visitation’s Salesian Motherhood Workshop, speaker Ann O’Neil Gradowski ‘81 spoke about how mothers can “be who we are and be that very well so as to bring honor to the Master Craftsman whose handiwork you are” (St. Francis de Sales). She shared personal stories and insights about the different phases of mothering our children and nurturing other people.

In this conversation, Kati and Ellen discuss the importance of self-care, gratitude, and modeling balance for children as parents. They emphasize the need to fill one's own cup to handle life's demands, and the significance of maintaining perspective during challenging times. The discussion also touches on practical strategies for incorporating gratitude practices and family time into daily life, highlighting the joy that comes from shared experiences and the importance of being present for one another.

In this episode, hosts Kati and Ellen kick off Season 3 by discussing the pressing issue of screen time and its impact on children, particularly teenagers. They reflect on their own experiences as mothers navigating the complexities of technology in their children's lives. The conversation highlights the importance of setting boundaries around screen use, sharing personal anecdotes about their decisions regarding when to give their children phones, and how to manage screen time effectively. They emphasize the need for open communication with children about technology and the benefits of fostering real-life interactions over digital ones. Kati and Ellen also share practical strategies for managing screen time, such as using lock boxes for devices, limiting access to certain apps, and creating device-free zones during family meals. They discuss the positive outcomes of encouraging outdoor play and social interactions among children, which can be hindered by excessive screen use. The episode concludes with both hosts reflecting on the privilege of childhood and the importance of preserving that innocence by managing technology thoughtfully.

This bonus episode is a recording from a Fides Et Scientia - faith and knowledge, Georgetown Visitation’s motto - speaker event on November 6, 2025. The conversation, sponsored by the PeaceWorks Foundation, explores the themes of peace, conflict resolution, and the importance of empathy through the lived experience of two men in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Kobi Skolnick and Jasser Abu Mousa each share their personal stories and reflections, emphasizing the need for dialogue, education, and collective action to foster understanding and healing in communities affected by trauma and violence.

In this conversation, Kati Krueger and Adri Smith Reig explore the multifaceted experience of motherhood, emphasizing the importance of community, faith, and personal growth. They discuss the season of Advent and how this moment of preparing to receive Jesus incarnate into the world – and Mary’s total yes to God’s plan – takes on deeper meaning when you are nurturing your own children. The conversation also highlights the upcoming Salesian Motherhood Workshop, aimed at fostering connections among mothers and sharing experiences across generations and different ways of being life-givers to others. You are welcome to register here.

In this conversation, Kati Krueger interviews Genevieve Kocienda, our school archivist, about the significance of archives, the art of storytelling, and the importance of preserving family history. Genevieve shares her diverse background and how it informs her work in archiving, emphasizing the value of primary sources and the serendipitous discoveries that come with archival research. The discussion also touches on practical tips for preserving family heirlooms and the importance of recognizing the historical significance of personal stories. Salesian Spirituality tells us that little moments matter, and we see that play out in how people’s lives and stories are told and rediscovered through archives and research.

Amelia Blanton-Hibner and Claire Kranz, Kati’s two counterparts in sharing the Salesian charism at Visitation Academy in St. Louis and Visitation School in Mendota Heights, respectively, join Kati to discuss our shared mission as Visitation educators, and how we collaborate across the Visitation Salesian Network. We share the opportunities we provide Visitation students from different campuses get to know one another in service and leadership, growing in holy friendship - like that of Elizabeth and Mary - in spite of our distance. The Visitation Salesian Network supports our schools as we help our students and colleagues in their Salesian formation.

In this conversation, Kati Krueger and Visi mom Leana Katz discuss the principles of effective dialogue, particularly in peacebuilding and conflict resolution. They emphasize the importance of vulnerability, empathy, and finding common ground in conversations, especially when dealing with disagreements. The discussion also highlights the Visitation Salesian Network’s mnemonic GRACE to help us remember the various dimensions of engaging with others in Christ-like conversations. Salesian Spirituality is attentive to the small, everyday actions that foster deeper relationships and build a sense of community. Ultimately, they express hope for the future, encouraging individuals to engage with those who are different from them and to approach conflicts with understanding and compassion.

In this conversation during a Mary and Moms event, Father Danny Morrison shares his insights on motherhood, emphasizing its authority, vocation, and the spiritual battles mothers face. He reflects on the role of Our Lady and the importance of prayer, particularly the rosary, as tools for spiritual warfare. The talk highlights the profound impact of motherhood in guiding families towards heaven and the necessity of recognizing the spiritual challenges that come with this sacred role.

In this podcast episode, Kati Krueger interviews Marlayna Soenneker, a marriage and family therapist at Catholic Community Services of Western Washington Archdiocese, about her work in family behavioral health. Marlayna shares insights on supporting teenagers in crisis, the impact of social media on mental health, and the lasting effects of the pandemic on youth. The conversation emphasizes the importance of love and support in parenting, especially during challenging times.

In this conversation, Dr. Nancy Cowden-Hennessy, a neuroscientist and educator, discusses the intersection of neuroscience and teaching, particularly focusing on student stress, neuroplasticity, and the importance of a growth mindset. She emphasizes the need for balance in students' lives, the role of mindfulness and prayer, and the impact of social media on attention and dopamine levels. The conversation highlights the significance of celebrating individual differences and understanding the nuances of stress in academic settings.

Listen in as AP Environmental Science Teacher Rick Thomas joins Kati & Caroline to talk about his journey into education and his commitment to engaging students in environmental issues. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the intersection of climate change and social justice, particularly how environmental problems disproportionately affect marginalized communities. The discussion also covers data-supported practical steps families can take to reduce their environmental impact, the dangers of fast fashion, and the importance of fostering a culture of repair and reuse. Rick shares insights on how to empower students and families to make meaningful changes in their daily lives to care for the planet.

Kati and Caroline are joined this week by Visitation’s Head Librarian Liz Burke to discuss the importance of information literacy in today's digital age. They explore the challenges students face in evaluating sources, the distinction between misinformation and disinformation, and the role of parents in guiding their children through the complexities of information consumption. The discussion emphasizes the need for critical thinking, the evaluation of sources, and the importance of understanding different perspectives in news reporting.

Joining Kati & Caroline this week are the mother-daughter alumnae duo of Carola Rubio Williamson ‘92 and Caroline Williamson ‘24. Carola is Visitation’s Assistant Director of Admissions. During their chat, the four discuss the dynamics of friendship among high school students, including the importance of being open-minded, navigating new school environments, the impact of social media, and the role of parents in guiding their children through friendship challenges. The dialogue emphasizes empathy, active listening, and the significance of modeling positive behavior in relationships.

This week, Kati & Caroline are joined by Mary Vieth, and alumnae and the Athletic Director at Visitation. They discuss how to nurture Salesian Spirituality in the realm of sports, helping athletes cultivate virtues like humility, patience, and resilience. Delivering deeper, they explore the significance of building holy friendships through sports, how parents can support their daughters as they navigate tryouts and cuts, and the life lessons that sports impart, preparing young athletes for future challenges.

Tune in as Kati and Caroline explore the significance of gratitude in daily life, particularly in the context of parenting teenage daughters. They discuss personal practices of gratitude, the importance of modeling these behaviors for their children, and the challenges posed by social media. The conversation emphasizes the need for open communication about emotions and the value of celebrating others to foster a sense of community and joy.

This week, Kati & Caroline talk about the importance of navigating conversations in a divided culture through a Salesian lens. They explore the value of understanding different perspectives, the impact of perfectionism on communication, the role of values in dialogue, and the significance of fostering curiosity and openness in relationships, They delve into the need for respectful communication among teens and how parents can model healthy communication and embrace the journey of growth and understanding.

In this episode, Kati and Caroline discuss the importance of cultivating simplicity in a fast-paced world. They explore the challenges of managing expectations, especially for parents during the summer, and the need for intentionality in creating space for what truly matters. Together, they reflect on the internal work required to simplify life and the flexibility needed to navigate different seasons of life.

During a retreat earlier this year, Kati offered a talk about the history of the Sacred Heart in the Visitation Order, the apparitions of Jesus to St. Margaret Mary, and how we can live as beloved by Christ. In this Jubilee Year of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Kati explores the profound themes of the Sacred Heart of Christ, emphasizing the significance of the heartbeat as a metaphor for divine love and mercy. She discusses the 12 promises associated with the Sacred Heart, highlighting their relevance to modern life, particularly in terms of grace and family peace. Additionally, she reflects on Pope Francis's teachings and the importance of witnessing Christ's love through our actions and missions in everyday life.

This week, Kati and Caroline chat with Visitation’s Director of Christian Service Sofia Gutierrez about teens and service. They discuss how to encourage students to engage with their communities, develop essential life skills, and foster personal growth through service. Family involvement is key to empowering students to Live Jesus in their communities, which can be a transformative experience.

In this episode, we discuss the importance of personal growth for parents, the shift in family dynamics as children grow, and the significance of intentional family time. We also talk about how to support your daughter’s growing independence while maintaining family connections and finding balance in busy lives.

Nicole, a Visitation parent, shares the story of her daughter finding healing after battling anxiety and depression. Nicole’s daughter struggled with anxiety in middle school, later tipping into depression. By junior year of high school, her daughter’s mental health challenges were beyond Nicole and her husband’s ability to help; they decided to explore residential treatment. After five months of outpatient treatment including therapy, their daughter returned home in April 2024 and she has been able to finish her senior year at Visitation. Nicole shares how they couple empathy and validation with confidence and belief. Along the way, she found comfort and companionship in our Blessed Mother Mary, understanding the anguish she felt for our Lord on the cross. Praying the rosary and committing to other spiritual habits were the support beams that gave her stability during this difficult time.

In this conversation, Kati and Caroline discuss the importance of empowering teenage girls to embrace their unique identities and gifts. They explore practical strategies for building confidence, including well-timed compliments, fostering independence, engaging in service, navigating academic challenges, and practicing gratitude. The discussion emphasizes the need for intentional parenting to help daughters recognize their strengths and grow into confident women of faith, vision, and purpose.

In this episode, Kati & Caroline invite Visitation’s Director of Academic Support Kerry Kaminsky to discuss how to empower students academically. Kerry shares her philosophy on fostering independence and resilience among students. The three explore: - the balance between academic challenges and personal fulfillment; - the need for joy in students' lives; - teaching students to be resourceful and self-advocating; - how parents can help children process emotions and feedback without immediate reactions; and - how to create space for reflection and growth, particularly in a fast-paced world. Kerri, Kati, & Caroline end with a conversation on vulnerability and open communication.

In today’s episode, Kati explores Dilexit Nos, Pope Francis’s encyclical on the human and divine love of the heart of Jesus Christ. Kati explains the exchange of hearts that takes place between God the Father and the Son and how we are also invited to exchange hearts with Jesus. In the encyclical, Pope Francis invites us to consider how our relationship with Christ should overflow in word and deed, inspiring others to love Christ. He acknowledges that sometimes our hearts are anxious and fearful. Kati notes that in the Salesian tradition, we pray the Examine each night “to allow our hearts to be pierced” so as to grow and strengthen our hearts.

In this episode, Kati & Caroline talk about the teen brain! Beginning with an overview of adolescent brain development, the conversation explores the importance of healthy risk-taking for teens and how parents can balance freedom and boundaries. The role of social connections, effective communication, sleep patterns, and the significance of celebrating growth and milestones are also highlighted as essential components in navigating the teenage years.

In this conversation, Kati & Caroline discuss how to help your daughter discover her sense of style, feel confident in her body, and dress modestly. We talk about the influence of social media on teens’ clothing choices as well as how to encourage teens to shop and dress sustainably.

In this bonus episode, Kati explores the sacred role of women in the Gospel of John. During this recorded presentation from a retreat held earlier this year, she discusses the intercessory role of Mary at the Wedding at Cana, the sacrificial love of Mary during the crucifixion, and the transformative encounters of women like the Samaritan woman and Mary Magdalene with Christ. Exploring themes of trust, redemption, and the call to mission, Kati invites listeners to reflect on how to live out these principles in daily life.

In this conversation, Visitation’s personal counselors join us as we delve deeper into the complexities of teenage friendships and the essential role of parental guidance (but not over-involvement!) in navigating these relationships. The counselors discuss common challenges teens face, the importance of resilience, and how parents can support their children through social struggles. They emphasize the need for open communication, modeling behavior, stepping back, and recognizing signs of distress in teens. The discussion highlights the significance of friendships in personal growth and the evolving dynamics as children transition into adolescence.

In this episode, we discuss how parents can help their daughters cultivate an active faith life during high school. Being her role model, helping her build strong relationships, and creating a supportive environment are all important for your daughter’s spiritual growth. We include practical steps for parents to encourage their daughters' faith journeys, the significance of normalizing faith in daily life, and the need for teen independence in developing a personal relationship with God.

In this bonus episode, Kati offers an overview of Salesian Spirituality, including the importance of daily offerings to God, the significance of living in God's presence, and the call to holiness for everyone. The discussion also highlights the Visitation as a model for being Christ bearers and the importance of Little Virtues in daily life. The conversation concludes with a reflection on personal growth and honoring one's unique identity as part of God's creation.

In this episode, we are honored to welcome Sister Mary Berchmans Hannan, VHM, ‘48 & ‘50, an alumna, Visitation Sister, and Salesian educator and leader with a heart for guiding young people. Sister shares her insights on how Salesian spirituality and Catholic values can deeply influence the way we nurture and support our teen daughters. Together, we explore practical advice for navigating the unique challenges of adolescence, cultivating faith, resilience, and self-worth in the midst of today’s fast-paced world. She discusses the importance of living in the presence of God, accepting His will, and practicing virtues like kindness and gentleness.

In this episode, we talk about the complexities of friendship, particularly among teenage girls, as well as the concept of “holy friendship” in the Salesian tradition. We explore the challenges posed by digital communication and social media, and talk about initiatives like 'Start with Hello' to foster connections. We also touch upon the nuances of navigating group texts and the role of parents in supporting their daughters' social lives. There was so much to discuss that we decided to return to it in the future with our colleagues in the counseling department!

In this episode of 'Nurturing the Mind and Heart,' we explore the intersection of Salesian wisdom and time management for raising teen girls. We discuss the importance of teaching young women how to manage their time effectively while balancing the need for spontaneity and living in the present. We also talk about how to help girls develop the self-awareness and discernment that are essential skills for navigating the complexities of adolescence. We both share personal experiences and insights on how to guide daughters through the challenges of time management, encouraging them to reflect on their choices and learn from their experiences.

Welcome to "Nurturing the Mind and Heart: Salesian Wisdom for Raising Teen Girls," the podcast where Catholic values and Salesian wisdom meet modern insights for guiding your teen daughter through the joys and challenges of adolescence. This podcast is sponsored and produced by Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School, an all-girls college preparatory school rooted in the Roman Catholic faith and Salesian tradition. At Visitation, we seek to educate the mind and heart of each young woman in our charge. In this podcast, hosts Kati Hylden Krueger and Caroline Coleman Handorf invite you to walk with us as partners, nurturing your daughter on her spiritual and academic journey. Join us as we explore the teachings of St. Francis de Sales and St. Jane de Chantal as well as expert advice from educators, counselors, and real-life parents. Whether you're seeking to cultivate your daughter’s faith, navigate struggles, or simply connect on a deeper level, we’re here to offer the guidance and support you need for every step of her high school journey. New episodes will be released every other week and can be Apple, Spotify, and the Visitation website (www.visi.org).