Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys

Boys are growing up in a world that will define manhood for them if we don’t.What happens when a father decides to build a legacy on purpose — instead of by accident?🎙 In This EpisodeA powerful conversation about responsibility, redemption, and what it means to become the father you didn’t have.In this episode of Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys, I sit down with father-child relationship coach Randall Gilbert, founder of Relentless Father’s Army, for a direct and heartfelt conversation about legacy, ownership, and emotional presence.Randall shares his personal story of growing up without his father, the promise he made to his future children, and the turning point moment when a mentor challenged him to take responsibility for his home.This episode is about more than fatherhood.It’s about identity.It’s about forgiveness.It’s about becoming the solid foundation your family stands on.🧠 We DiscussGrowing up without a father — and choosing to forgiveThe two decisions that changed Randall’s lifeThe Four Legacy Pillars frameworkWhy consistency builds confidence in boysResponding to disappointment without shameProtecting sons in a digital, hypersexualized worldThe importance of mentorship and brotherhood for menEmotional regulation when children failWhy financial provision is only part of a father’s roleCo-parenting and “sowing seeds” without immediate returnThe danger of impatience in parentingWhat it means to build a legacy that lasts 50 years⏱ Episode Highlights00:00 – Randall’s story: father absence and forgiveness06:30 – The Four Legacy Pillars explained12:40 – Consistency and confidence (the high school dance story)20:00 – Guarding heart and mind in a digital culture28:00 – The mentor who confronted him35:30 – Failure, encouragement, and emotional regulation42:00 – The greatest threat to a father’s legacy47:00 – Co-parenting and planting seeds with patience53:00 – “Will you be remembered 50 years from now?”🎁 Free Resource for Parents of BoysIf today’s conversation stirred something in you, start here:👉 Download: 5 Pivotal Tips on Parenting Boys https://sonhood.thinkific.com/courses/5-pivotal-tips-on-parenting-boysThis free guide will help you:✔️ Understand how boys process emotion✔️ Shift from correction to connection✔️ Respond instead of react✔️ Build trust without losing leadership🔥 Ready to Take One Small Step?If you’re listening and thinking…“I want to do this differently.”Let’s make it simple.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™(Limited Spots)3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son ✨ 3 Days. One tiny, powerful action per day sent to your inbox.✨ 1:1 Support. You message me your experience; I support you personally with insights.✨ Limited Access. I only take 5-7 parents per week to keep the coaching personal.No overwhelm. No pressure. Just steady progress.👉 Email me at [email protected] Subject line: I’m inOR👇 Comment “STRONG” below and I’ll send you the Tiny Challenge details directly.About Randall GilbertRandall Gilbert is a speaker, father-child relationship coach, and founder of Relentless Father’s Army — a community equipping men to become consistent, engaged, and purpose-driven fathers.Drawing from personal transformation and mentorship, Randall developed the Four Legacy Pillars framework to help fathers become:The Solid FoundationThe Wall of ProtectionThe LighthouseThe RunwayHis mission is to help transform one million lives by strengthening fathers from the inside out.Connect with Randall GilbertWebsite: relentlessfathersarmy.comYouTube: Relentless Father’s ArmyTikTok: Relentless Father’s ArmyEmail: [email protected]://linktr.ee/relentlessfathersarmyhttps://skool.com/relentless-fathers-army-9850🎙 Season 3: All About BoysToo many boys today are navigating identity, desire, disappointment, and cultural confusion without steady guidance.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code explores the inner emotional world of boys through conversations with young men, experts, fathers, and reflective solo episodes.This isn’t about fixing boys.It’s about seeing them clearly — and helping fathers build the kind of foundation that lasts long after they’re gone.Discover more at sonhoodcoaching.com🎙 Subscribe & ShareIf this episode resonated:✔️ Subscribe✔️ Leave a review✔️ Share with a father raising sons✔️ Comment with your biggest takeaway#ParentingBoys #Fatherhood #RaisingSons #Masculinity #Legacy #RelentlessFather

Boys are growing up in a world where sexuality is instant, private, and unfiltered.What happens when curiosity meets secrecy before it ever meets guidance?🎙 In This EpisodeA grounded conversation about pornography, shame, and connection.In this episode of Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys, I sit down with Licensed Professional Counselor Patrick Eilers for a thoughtful and nuanced conversation about boys, pornography, emotional regulation, and what he calls “the vulnerability robber.”Patrick shares from both his professional experience and his personal story — including being diagnosed at age 11 with Asperger syndrome (now ASD) and how that shaped his understanding of himself, relationships, and mental health.🧠 We DiscussPatrick’s early ASD diagnosis and how it impacted his identity and relationshipsGrowing up feeling socially different — and how that became a strengthHis personal struggle with pornography during adolescenceHow that experience led him to becoming a counsellorWhy pornography often becomes a coping mechanismThe role of secrecy in addiction cyclesTestosterone, biology, and what we do (and don’t) understandWhy social media amplifies sexualized thinkingThe difference between attention and authenticityWhat parents can practically do to reduce riskWhy vulnerability is often the first thing lost⏱ Episode Highlights00:00 – Patrick’s background, faith foundation, and ASD diagnosis09:30 – His personal experience with pornography14:00 – Biology, trauma, and addiction frameworks18:30 – Testosterone: what we know and what remains unclear22:00 – Social media and hypersexualization26:30 – What parents can do before exposure happens32:40 – “The Vulnerability Robber” explained35:00 – Social media, compartmentalization, and secret lives37:40 – Masculinity, authenticity, and cultural confusion🎁 Free Resource for Parents of BoysIf today’s conversation stirred something in you, start here:👉 Download: 5 Pivotal Tips on Parenting Boys https://sonhood.thinkific.com/courses/5-pivotal-tips-on-parenting-boysThis free guide will help you:✔️ Understand how boys process emotion✔️ Shift from correction to connection✔️ Respond instead of react✔️ Build trust without losing leadership🔥 Ready to Take One Small Step?If you’re listening and thinking…“I want to do this differently.”Let’s make it simple.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™(Limited Spots)3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son ✨ 3 Days. One tiny, powerful action per day sent to your inbox.✨ 1:1 Support. You message me your experience; I support you personally with insights.✨ Limited Access. I only take 5-7 parents per week to keep the coaching personal.No overwhelm. No pressure. Just steady progress.👉 Email me at [email protected] Subject line: I’M INOR👇 Comment “STRONG” below and I’ll send you the Tiny Challenge details directly.About Patrick EilersPatrick Eilers is a Licensed Professional Counselor with nearly a decade of experience working with individuals and couples navigating anxiety, depression, addiction, and life transitions. He previously specialized in sexual addiction recovery and now works as a general practitioner while leading Bloom Works Concepts and Coaching. His work integrates psychology, theology, and a strong commitment to creating safe spaces for honest healing.Connect with Patrick Eilershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickeilersbloomworkscc/Bloomworks: Mental Health Resources🎙 Season 3: All About BoysToo many boys today feel unseen, misunderstood, or quietly overwhelmed. And far too often, their parents feel the same.Season 3 of Unlocking The Parenting Code is centered on understanding the inner emotional world of boys — through honest conversations with young men, experts, fathers, and solo reflections.This isn’t about fixing boys.It’s about seeing them clearly — and learning how to show up with steadiness, compassion, and courage.Discover more at sonhoodcoaching.com🎙 Subscribe & ShareIf this episode resonated:✔️ Subscribe✔️ Leave a review✔️ Share with a parent raising boys✔️ Comment with your biggest insight#ParentingBoys #BoysMentalHealth #EmotionalIntelligence #RaisingSons #Masculinity

Boys are drowning in information and starving for steadiness. What happens when a man chooses regulation over reaction… rhythm over chaos… responsibility over performance?🎙 In This EpisodeIn this episode of Unlocking The Parenting Code: All About Boys, I sit down with Casey Muze to explore how grounded men are formed — and what parents can do right now to model that steadiness.Casey shares his experience growing up navigating depression, identity tension, and unspoken emotional needs — and how rhythm, mentorship, and emotional intelligence became central to his healing and leadership.We explore the gap many boys experience between performance expectations and emotional validation, and why being seen and heard may be the most powerful prevention work of all.🧠 We DiscussGrowing up feeling emotionally unseen by his fatherThe impact on young men with hereditary mental health and substance use patternsNavigating identity tension: “not Black enough” and “not White enough”Fact vs. fiction thinking during depressionHow rhythm, drumming and-box breathing became therapeutic tools to regulate anxietySlowing down instead of reacting when boys struggleMentorship as structured emotional empowermentAuditing social circles and leadership environmentsEmotional intelligence as a core leadership skill⏱ Episode Highlights00:00 – Casey’s upbringing and early emotional landscape05:10 – Achievement without emotional validation09:45 – Mental health, heredity, and depression14:30 – Fact vs. fiction thinking19:15 – Identity tension and belonging25:40 – Discovering rhythm as therapy31:20 – Breathing, cadence, and anxiety regulation36:10 – Emotional needs of boys 41:00 – Mentorship and leadership46:35 – Slowing down instead of reacting56:00 – Emotional intelligence as leadership🎁 Free Resource for Parents of BoysIf today’s conversation stirred something in you, start here:👉 Download: 5 Pivotal Tips on Parenting Boys https://sonhood.thinkific.com/courses/5-pivotal-tips-on-parenting-boysThis free guide will help you:✔️ Understand how boys process emotion✔️ Shift from correction to connection✔️ Respond instead of react✔️ Build trust without losing leadership🔥 Ready to Take One Small Step?If you’re listening and thinking…“I want to do this differently.”Let’s make it simple.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™(Limited Spots)3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son ✨ 3 Days. One tiny, powerful action per day sent to your inbox.✨ 1:1 Support. You message me your experience; I support you personally with insights.✨ Limited Access. I only take 5-7 parents per week to keep the coaching personal.No overwhelm. No pressure. Just steady progress.👉 Email me at [email protected] Subject line: I’m inOR👇 Comment “STEADY” below and I’ll send you the Tiny Challenge details directly.👤 About Casey MuzeCasey Muze is a mental health speaker and rhythm-based practitioner who uses steady cadence, story, and presence to help people return to regulation, clarity, and grounded leadership. Rooted in tradition and lived experience, his work bridges neuroscience, emotional well-being, and the timeless power of rhythm to restore what stress, trauma, and disconnection have worn thin. Whether serving youth, caregivers, or communities, Casey speaks plainly and works deliberately—guiding others back to strength, purpose, and a steadier way forward.Connect with Casey Muzehttps://www.facebook.com/CaseyMuzetheroyalspeakerCaseyMuze.com🎙 Season 3: All About BoysToo many boys today feel unseen, misunderstood, or quietly overwhelmed. And far too often, their parents feel the same.Season 3 of Unlocking The Parenting Code is centered on understanding the inner emotional world of boys — through honest conversations with young men, experts, fathers, and solo reflections.This isn’t about fixing boys.It’s about seeing them clearly — and learning how to show up with steadiness, compassion, and courage.Discover more at sonhoodcoaching.com🎙 Subscribe & ShareIf this episode resonated:✔️ Subscribe✔️ Leave a review✔️ Share with a parent raising boys✔️ Comment with your biggest insight#ParentingBoys #BoysMentalHealth #EmotionalIntelligence #RaisingSons #Masculinity

In this episode, I sat down with Antonio Sosa for a conversation about masculinity, emotional development, identity, and relationships. Antonio shares his personal journey growing up in a traditional Mexican family, navigating cultural displacement, emotional numbness, and rigid expectations of manhood. Together, they explore how boys learn to survive emotionally, how those survival strategies can later become obstacles, and what it takes for men to reconnect with themselves, others, and a sense of purpose.From money and success to intimacy, divorce, and modern dating, this episode offers listeners a rare window into the inner world of a young man actively unlearning inherited messages about masculinity and redefining what it means to live with integrity, presence, and emotional awareness.**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works:✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********Guest BioAntonio Sosa is a thoughtful voice in conversations about masculinity, personal growth, and intentional living. Born into a traditional Mexican family, Antonio’s early life was shaped by adventure, cultural transitions, and emotional upheaval following his parents’ divorce. These experiences eventually led him down a path of self-inquiry, entrepreneurship, and deep inner work.Antonio is passionate about self-awareness, emotional honesty, physical discipline, and building a life aligned with one’s values rather than external expectations. Through his reflections on relationships, money, identity, and men’s mental health, he invites other men—and the parents raising them—to move beyond survival mode and toward connection, responsibility, and embodied presence.We Talk About:Growing up in a traditional Mexican family and the impact of divorceCultural identity, belonging, and navigating life between worldsEmotional numbing as a childhood survival strategyMasculinity messages boys absorb—and what needs to be unlearnedRedefining success beyond money, status, and external validationMoney, scarcity, comfort, and emotional patterns around financesFunctional depression, emotional disconnection, and men’s healthDivorce, intimacy, and learning to relate more honestlyModern dating culture and common misunderstandingsHealthy masculinity, honesty, and responsibility in relationshipsCommunity, men’s work, and why boys and men shouldn’t go it aloneWork, purpose, and choosing short-term sacrifice for long-term visionLinkshttps://antoniososa21.substack.com/subscribe?params=%5Bobject%20Object%5Dhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/antonio-sosa-28b12851/https://patreon.com/TheBalancedLife? utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copy Linkwww.youtube.com/@SoulofSosainstagram.com/soulofsosa?igsh=eHpqcDFpZ2lrbDJ3&utm_source=qrX x.com/theantoniososaTik Tok tiktok.com/@soulofsosa?lang=enpodcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/soul-of-sosa-podcast/id1672706980open.spotify.com/show/7q8FrXmHTWZvgbLyx8pwHN?si=WrpSNVAGSlW3uzNT2xWwBQhttps://www.facebook.com/antonio.sosa21https://soundcloud.com/antonio-sosa-342927472*********SEASON 3 IS DIFFERENTToo many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.Discover more @sonhoodcoaching.com

In this episode, I sit down with Jeremy Swick, a young man whose life story begins in Guatemala and unfolds in Wisconsin. Jeremy was adopted as an infant after spending his first six months in an overcrowded orphanage during Guatemala’s civil war. What I didn’t fully understand going into this conversation was just how fragile and uncertain his start to life had been—and how deeply those early experiences shaped the man he’s become.Jeremy shares openly about being dropped as a baby in the orphanage, suffering multiple skull fractures and a serious brain injury, and how doctors once believed he might never thrive. He also tells the remarkable story of discovering that one of the babies who shared his crib was adopted by another family in Wisconsin—and still lives just an hour away today.Raised by deeply loving parents, Jeremy reflects on identity, belonging, and what it means to grow up as a brown child in a predominantly white community with parents whose lived experiences couldn’t always mirror his own. He speaks thoughtfully about curiosity as a lifeline—how learning history became a way to understand himself, his country of birth, and the world around him.This is a grounded, honest conversation about masculinity, resilience, and what helps boys grow into men who feel seen, capable, and connected.**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works:✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********Guest BioJeremy Swick is a historian, storyteller, and media entrepreneur known online as The Average Historian. Born in Guatemala City and raised in Wisconsin, Jeremy has worked with institutions including the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the College Football Hall of Fame, and most recently served as an archivist for the Wisconsin Black Historical Society. In 2025, he left his 9-to-5 to launch Swick Media, where he helps organizations and podcasters tell meaningful stories through digital media and podcasting.We talk about:Adoption, identity, and the lifelong search for belongingHow early trauma can quietly shape adult behavior and resilienceThe importance of earned support and what it taught Jeremy about growth and trustWhy team sports—especially rugby—can be a powerful buffer for boys’ and men’s mental healthCommunity, loneliness, and where young men feel most disconnected todayThe pressure to “perform” versus living honestlyWhat parents can do to truly support their sons’ interests and agencyJeremy also shares practical wisdom about asking better questions of young men, following curiosity instead of convention, and why parents don’t need to be perfect—just present, reflective, and willing to grow alongside their children.Links https://www.instagram.com/theaveragehistorian https://www.instagram.com/pod.intotheunknown https://www.instagram.com/swickmedia414 https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremyswick/ https://www.youtube.com/@pod.intotheunknown https://www.tiktok.com/@theaveragehistorian**********SEASON 3 IS DIFFERENTToo many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.Discover more @sonhoodcoaching.com

In this episode of Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys, Kathy sits down with Keanu Mendoza, a warm, reflective, and deeply thoughtful young man whose early life could have easily led him down a familiar path of drugs, gangs, and incarceration. Raised without his parents present, Keanu spent his early childhood with his grandmother before her passing, and later with an aunt and uncle who stepped in during his most vulnerable years.Keanu shares openly about growing up feeling lonely, shy, and unsure of who he was — including being bullied at school, struggling with self-confidence, and longing to belong. Grounded in faith and shaped by consistent, firm, and loving guidance, he chose a different path. Today, Keanu is serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, is a first-generation college graduate, and is continuing his education with plans for graduate school.This conversation offers hope to young people who feel trapped by their circumstances — and powerful insight for parents, mentors, and educators into what truly helps boys find their footing, their voice, and their sense of self.**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works: ✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day ✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience ✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********Guest BioKeanu Mendoza was born and raised in California. He grew up without his parents present and spent much of his early childhood being raised by his grandmother before her passing. In his early teens, his aunt and uncle stepped in to raise him and his brother, providing the stability and guidance that would change his life’s direction.Keanu is currently serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, the first in his family to do so. He is also a first-generation college graduate from Southern New Hampshire University, where he earned both his associate and bachelor’s degrees in business administration. At 26 years old, Keanu continues to pursue growth, learning, and service, with plans to begin graduate studies.Topics DiscussedFamily & Early LifeRaised primarily by his grandmother; family instability and early loss.Met his biological father only once (around age 5–6).Mother in and out of his life, mostly out, and struggling with substance issues.Moved in with his aunt and uncle in 7th grade (age 12–13) — the adults who “stepped up.”School, Identity & BullyingGrowing up a shy, chubby child and being bullied at school.Struggles with self-confidenceHow loneliness and the need to belong made him vulnerable in adolescence.Turning Points & MentorsThe decisive influence of his uncle and aunt: structure, discipline, and steady presence.Other local mentors (neighbor/church leader) who introduced him to faith and music.How one person’s intervention can change a boy’s trajectory.Choices, Resilience & PurposeChoosing a different path despite generational patterns of drugs, gangs, and incarceration.Joining the U.S. Marine Corps: finding structure, belonging, and purpose.Education as a pathway — first-generation college graduate and plans for further study.Masculinity, Vulnerability & Mental HealthWhat “being a man” means to him: protection, responsibility, follow-through.The challenge and importance of vulnerability for young men.Overthinking, coping with setbacks, and using rituals (journaling, prayer, friendship) to process emotions.Contemporary PressuresSocial media’s role in comparison, “death scrolling,” and insecurity.Peer pressure, relationships, and substances as common derailers for boys.Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/keanu-mendoza-9ab71729b/https://www.instagram.com/youngscholar_23/Resources & LinksLearn more about Kathy and Sonhood Coaching:https://sonhoodcoaching.comBook a discovery call or explore the Tiny Challenge™:https://calendly.com/kathy-sonhoodcoaching/tiny-challenge-call**********Too many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.

In this episode, Kathy sits down with Joey Stoneburgh, — a corrections officer, husband, father, and podcast host — for an honest look at childhood, masculinity, mental health, and the reality of working inside Canada’s largest jail. Joey opens up about growing up between two homes, the feeling of not fully belonging, the decisions that could have taken his life in a different direction, and the personal redemption he continues to choose every day.We dive into fatherhood, boundaries, identity, and the invisible pressures many men carry. Joey shares openly about mental health challenges, testosterone, and the work it takes to stay grounded. His story is one of self-reflection, resilience, connection — and choosing who you want to be, even when early life experiences may pull you in other directions.**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works: ✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day ✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience ✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********Topics Discussed• Core values & identity Joey reflects on honesty, integrity, inclusivity, and humor as foundational to who he is — and how these values led him into law enforcement.• Working in corrections & mental health How 13 years in a jail environment impacts a person, the risk of becoming hardened, and the outlets that kept Joey grounded (sobriety, jiu-jitsu, family, meaningful routines).• Childhood in a split family Navigating two households, complex family dynamics, feeling like he didn’t fully belong in either, and how those early experiences influenced his teens and early 20s.• Searching for belonging as a teen Partying, substance use, risky decisions, and the fine line between becoming an officer or becoming an inmate.• Religion, symbolism & redemption The surprising church visit that shifted his perspective, the powerful encounter at work that deepened his belief in good and evil, and the story behind his “redemption” tattoo.• Boundaries & self-worth Learning to stop people-pleasing, set limits with friends and family, and step into a stronger sense of self-respect.• Masculine pressure, drive & self-criticism Feeling like a failure in his late 20s, the internal pressure to be “the provider,” the battle in his own mind, and how ambition can be both a strength and a struggle.• Fatherhood & testosterone How becoming a dad transformed his identity, feeling “off,” low libido, and emotionally overwhelmed during that period, and his history of anabolic steroid use.• Masculinity, mentorship & mixed messages Outdated gender expectations, exposure to pornography, confusing early guidance from elders, and how culture shapes boys’ understanding of manhood.• Fears for today’s society The tension around motherhood, gender roles, and why he believes children need present, emotionally engaged parents.• What he wants to model for his daughter Presence, healthy masculinity, emotional availability, and the kind of father who gives his daughter a strong blueprint for future relationships.Guest BioJoey Stoneburgh was born in Huntsville, Ontario, and now lives in Edmonton, Alberta, with his wife and daughter — the two people who ground and inspire him most. He has spent 13 years working as a Corrections Officer at the Edmonton Remand Centre, Canada’s largest jail. Outside of work, Joey stays active through Jiu-Jitsu and weight training, and he hosts a podcast where he interviews people from all walks of life. At his core, Joey values honesty, integrity, inclusivity, laughter, and genuine connection.Linkshttps://www.youtube.com/@Sparebedroomstudioshttps://www.instagram.com/joeystoneburgh/https://www.facebook.com/joey.stoneburgh/Learn more @sonhoodcoaching.comRaising Boys Who Become Remarkable Men: Intentionally Parenting Your Son from Birth to 8. Grab your copy today.**********Why Season 3 Is DifferentToo many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.

In this powerful and deeply honest conversation, Kathy sits down with Pat Barber—father of four boys, longtime CrossFit leader, and thoughtful voice on masculinity, parenting, and personal growth. Pat opens up about the evolution of his core values, his marriage, and the lessons he brings into raising boys today.Together, they explore conflict, communication, risk-taking, digital safety, sexual development, honesty, and the role of testosterone in shaping boys’ inner worlds. Pat shares candid stories about raising four sons in the mountains, why he gives his boys real opportunities to take risks, and how he and his wife navigate everything from arguments to conversations about porn, erections, and emotional regulation.This episode offers grounded wisdom for parents raising boys in an age of misinformation, overprotection, hyper-connectivity, and confusion around masculinity.**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works: ✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day ✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience ✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********Guest BioPat Barber is a dedicated husband, father of four boys, and one of the most respected leaders in the functional fitness world. A longtime CrossFit athlete, coach, mentor, and community builder, Pat is known for his thoughtful reflections on fatherhood, integrity, and personal development. His work centers around authenticity, honesty, and strength—values he works to model in the gym, online, and at home. Pat speaks openly about parenting, relationships, and raising emotionally intelligent boys in a rapidly changing world.Topics Identity & Core ValuesPat’s three core values: authenticity, honesty, strengthMarriage & Conflict NavigationPat’s turning point in conflict with his wifeLearning to let go of “being right”Distinguishing core values from trivial argumentsCuriosity as a parenting and relationship toolParenting BoysRaising boys to be emotionally intelligent and self-awareWhen to guide vs. when to let children experimentGiving kids real risk: autonomy without negligenceRisk comparison: physical danger vs. digital dangerDiscipline, Boundaries & CommunicationHow Pat handles disagreements with his boysEncouraging them to explain their reasoningWhen to say “No” and when to say “Show me your plan”Apologizing to kids and modeling emotional regulationMasculinity & TestosteroneWhy parents need to understand testosterone surgesHow hormonal changes shift boys’ psychologyNormalizing sexuality without shameLack of societal literacy around male developmentEffects of testosterone seen through the lens of transgender menDigital Safety & Porn ExposureWhy Pat keeps devices in open spacesThe dangers of unsupervised online accessNavigating anime, sexualized content, and curiosityTalking to boys about erections, masturbation, and sexual urgesMen, Purpose & Cultural NarrativesThe impact of narratives that men are “dispensable”Harmonizing pro-men and pro-women mindsetsTeaching boys that strength is for service, not dominanceSelf-Reflection & Personal GrowthWhy the work starts with yourselfHow two people create “a third thing”—the relationshipLearning to trust oneself in an age of misinformationAsking: Why am I doing what I’m doing as a parent?Linkshttps://www.instagram.com/thefathersguild/?hl=enThe Fathers Guild - WebsiteThe Fathers Guild - PodcastSonhood Coaching**********SEASON 3 IS DIFFERENTToo many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.Discover more @sonhoodcoaching.com

In this first solo episode of Season 3, Kathy reflects on what she has learned from 21 in-depth conversations with young men, dads, and experts on male mental health and masculinity. With November marking Men’s Mental Health Month, she explores why it’s so important that parents, caregivers, and communities pay closer, more consistent attention to the emotional well-being of boys and young men.Kathy shares why this season shifted from talking about boys to talking with the young men they grow into—and how those conversations revealed a powerful missing piece in how we understand and support boys.A moment from her interview with her son stands at the heart of this episode: the unspoken pressure many boys feel to keep their emotions “flat”—not too happy, not too sad, not too anything. She unpacks the cost of emotional restriction and how it affects boys’ mental health, relationships, coping skills, and lifelong well-being.Despite the challenges, Kathy ends with hope. Across her interviews, she met young men who are building community, doing inner work, showing up honestly for their families, and actively redefining what healthy masculinity can look like. She also gives a preview of next week’s inspiring episode featuring a father of four boys who is committed to doing this work from the inside out.In this episode, Kathy explores:Why November’s focus on men’s mental health matters—but isn’t enoughThe “missing piece” in understanding boys’ emotional worldsHer son’s powerful insight about the pressure to stay emotionally flatHow emotional suppression impacts addiction, mental health, and connectionSigns of hope: young men choosing honesty, presence, and growthA preview of next week’s episode with a dad raising four boys with intention**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works: ✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day ✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience ✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********TakeawaysMen’s mental health doesn’t begin in adulthood—it begins in childhood.If we want mentally healthy men, we must raise emotionally supported boys.And that starts with listening—to their stories, their struggles, and their truths. Learn more @sonhoodcoaching.comShare This EpisodeIf this conversation resonated with you, please share it with a parent, a father, or a young man.“The world of humanity has two wings—one is women, the other is men.Not until both wings are equally developed can a bird truly fly.”**********Too many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.Free resources @sonhoodcoaching.com

When fatherhood meets entrepreneurship, life can feel like a balancing act — one that tests patience, priorities, and purpose. In this warm, honest conversation, Kathy talks with Thomas Buttino, a dad of three (including twin toddlers!) who’s learning how to build both a thriving business and a deeply connected family life.Together, they talk about the real stuff — curiosity, boundaries, mistakes, forgiveness, and how 10 minutes of undivided attention can change everything. Thomas shares personal stories that remind us that connection doesn’t come from control — it comes from courage and conversation.This is an episodeI for every parent who wants to raise boys who feel seen, valued, and deeply loved — and for every dad learning that strength and softness can live in the same heart.**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works: ✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day ✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience ✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********Topics CoveredThe three core values that guide Thomas’s life and fatherhood: love, loyalty, and honestyHow to talk to boys about pornography, alcohol, and curiosity — without shame or fearThe importance of keeping communication open before teens turn to the internet for answersHow 10 minutes of focused time a day can change your relationship with your kidsWhat it means to raise authentic, emotionally intelligent young menThe difference between a work ethic and a life ethic — and why fathers need bothWhy embracing failure and risk is key to growth and resilienceHow fathers can model love without losing their sense of strengthGuest Bio: Thomas Buttino is a husband, father, entrepreneur, author, speaker, and mentor who’s on a mission to help Dadpreneurs — fathers building both businesses and families — achieve extraordinary growth in life and work. Through his mentoring and writing, Thomas encourages men to lead with authenticity, love, and purpose, and to create lives where success and connection thrive side by side.Links:https://www.instagram.com/automatedexec/https://www.facebook.com/thomas.buttinoWebsite: The Automated ExecutiveLearn more @sonhoodcoaching.comEmail: [email protected] Season 3 Is DifferentToo many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.Learn more about raising boys who become remarkable men @sonhoodcoaching.com

 My conversation with Yenson She was filled with quiet insight and genuine reflection on what it means to be a young father in Hong Kong today. Though he grew up during the years when the city was transitioning from British to Chinese rule, Yenson described his childhood as simply that — an ordinary boyhood untouched by politics or change.Now a father and host of the podcast Ordinary But Unique, Yenson speaks thoughtfully about his evolving understanding of masculinity, fatherhood, and emotional awareness. From his reflections on growing up in Hong Kong’s high-pressure education system to the tender hopes he holds for his young daughter, this conversation offers a window into how modern Asian men are redefining strength — not through silence, but through compassion and courage.**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works: ✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day ✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience ✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.********** In This Episode, We Explore:What it was like growing up as a boy in Hong Kong during the late 80s and 90sThe deep cultural mix of East and West — and how it shaped identityWhy emotional awareness and mental well-being are central to Yenson’s parenting todayHow the definition of masculinity in Chinese culture is slowly evolvingHis reflections on his own father’s quiet influence — and what he hopes to do differentlyThe challenges and pressures men face in their 30s and 40s as they juggle fatherhood, career, and identityHow grief and self-reflection led him to launch Ordinary But UniqueGuest Bio Born and raised in Hong Kong, Yenson She is a multi-sector generalist and podcast host who explores the intersections of masculinity, growth, and well-being. Educated at Cambridge and now working across Asia, Yenson is the creator of the podcast Ordinary But Unique, where he invites men to share their stories with honesty and empathy. A devoted father, Yenson is passionate about learning how to be both a strong and emotionally attuned parent — and helping other men do the same.Memorable Quotes“It’s okay to make mistakes. It’s okay to be wrong. What matters is to become better next time.”“Being strong doesn’t mean hiding your emotions — it means knowing how to face and express them.”“If my daughter knows how to love herself, she’ll know how to love others — and that’s the kind of strength I hope to pass on.”Connect with Yenson:🎙️ Podcast: Ordinary But Unique Instagram / LinkedIn: yensonshe Why Season 3 Is DifferentToo many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.Discover more at SonhoodCoaching.com

From the rush of a semi-professional motorcycle career to the quiet reckoning of divorce and fatherhood, Corey Baum has lived the full spectrum of what it means to chase control — and what it costs to find connection. People described him as “always at a five” — never too high, never too low — steady on the outside, but disconnected within.Behind the image of the capable man was someone using achievement, porn, and relationships to escape the pain of disconnection. The façade of confidence hid a deep fear of being truly seen.Divorce marked the beginning of a long, unfiltered journey of self-discovery — through therapy, men’s work, and an honest confrontation with the patterns that kept him small.Today, as the founder of The Evolved Men Project and father to two boys, ages 7 and 11, Corey helps men break free from the old rules of masculinity, build real confidence, and lead from emotional truth rather than performance. His story is one of courage, accountability, and evolution — and a reminder that it’s never too late to become the man you were meant to be.**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works: ✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day ✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience ✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********GuestBioCorey Baum is the founder of The Evolved Men Project, a coach and community builder helping men lead with confidence, connection, and purpose. Drawing on years of personal growth, men’s group leadership, and professional coaching, he creates spaces where men can develop self-mastery, strengthen relationships, and live boldly. Corey hosts The Evolved Men Podcast and facilitates both local and online groups, blending practical tools with real conversations that inspire change. Topics DiscussedCorey’s childhood and the masks boys learn to wear to feel safeWhat boys need most from their parents todayThe turning pointEscaping through achievement, relationships,, and porn — and learning to sit with pain instead of numbing itFatherhood after divorce: building connection through honesty, not perfectionHow men can redefine strength, leadership, and lovePractical ways to help boys express emotion and develop inner confidence🔗 Connect with CoreyFacebook - https://facebook.com/evolvedmenprojectIG - https://instagram.com/evolvedmenproject/YouTube - https://youtube.com/@EvolvedMenProjectWebsite - https://evolvedmenproject.com/💬 Connect with KathyWebsite: sonhoodcoaching.comJoin the Tiny (FREE) Challenge: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection with Your SonWhy Season 3 Is DifferentToo many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.

Sagi Ayalon is a man who has had to start over. His story spans continents, careers, and deep inner transformations. Born in Israel and now living in New York, Sagi’s life has taken him from the army to entrepreneurship, from marriage and fatherhood to heartbreak and profound spiritual renewal.After losing not only his marriage but also connection with his two young sons, Sagi turned to his Buddhist practice — not to escape, but to understand, to heal, and to rediscover what it means to live with love and compassion.In this deeply moving conversation, Sagi talks about what it’s like to navigate fatherhood in a system that often overlooks men’s emotional lives, the loneliness that can come with societal expectations, and the slow rebuilding of peace from the inside out. What stands out most is his honesty — and his quiet strength — in speaking about loss, tenderness, and the power of presence.If you’ve ever wondered how someone rebuilds their life from the ground up — and manages to lead with heart, not bitterness — this episode will stay with you.**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works: ✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day ✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience ✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********Topics CoveredThe journey from Israel to New York — and what shaped his early yearsNavigating marriage, fatherhood, and the shock of divorceThe emotional and legal toll of custody battlesWhat homeschooling taught him about patience, play, and connectionHow Buddhist practices helped him find peace and meaningThe societal expectations that confine men — and what freedom really meansWhy connection and compassion are the foundation of true strengthHow he unexpectedly found love again and rebuilt his lifeGuest BioSagi Ayalon was born in Israel and relocated to New York as a young man. His journey has included entrepreneurship, real estate development, and bodywork — as well as homeschooling, permaculture, and years of Buddhist study and meditation.He is the father of two boys (currently ages nine and seven) and has navigated the highs and lows of family life: 15 years of marriage, parenting, homeschooling, and a difficult divorce that required him to rebuild financially, legally, and emotionally. Today, Sagi works as a bodyworker and spiritual guide dedicated to helping people reconnect with themselves and find healing through touch, presence, and mindful practice. His path has been shaped by deep traditions in wellness and spirituality, as well as the personal challenges of navigating a difficult divorce and raising two children. These experiences have taught him resilience and compassion, and they inspire him to support others on their journey toward balance, healing, and a sense of true home within themselves.Connect with SagiEmail: [email protected] more @sonhoodcoaching.comEmail: [email protected] Season 3 Is DifferentToo many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.

In this episode Stefanos Koutsoumpis shares how his childhood shaped a lifetime of chasing success; but happiness always eluded him. Raised as the third of four boys in a crowded household, and a strained relationship with his father, Stefanos grew up learning routine, duty, and a message that “finding a job, a wife and kids” was enough. Emotional expression — especially anger or conflict — was discouraged, and practical encouragement was mainly limited to school performance.Those early patterns left Stefanos with under-developed self-esteem, a fear of risk, and a habit of looking outward for validation. Despite earning a PhD and building a corporate career, he describes a cycle of perfectionism, constant interest-hopping and restless achievement-seeking that never satisfied him — until he discovered mindfulness, Positive Psychology and CBT. Today he combines that lived experience with training to help men stop living on autopilot and rebuild internal confidence.This episode highlights how early family experiences influence the choices, confidence, and emotional health of boys as they grow into men.**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works: ✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day ✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience ✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********Guest Bio:The third of four brothers, Stefanos Koutsoumpis earned a Ph.D. in Physics and built a successful career as a researcher and corporate project manager in multinational IT.He knows what it’s like to achieve success on paper while still feeling unfulfilled. His personal journey led him to mindfulness, CBT, and happiness studies training at leading institutions in the US and UK—including the Oxford Mindfulness Centre, the Mindfulness Coaching School, and the Happiness Studies Academy. Today, Stefanos coaches men in their 30s to recover purpose, strengthen emotional resilience, and define success on their own terms.Topics:What it was like growing up in a home of four boys—and how family dynamics shaped his views on masculinity.Why confidence is a skill (not a trait) and how men can build it step by step.The silent struggles men face with conflict, vulnerability, and emotional growth.How societal expectations of success clash with men’s inner needs for happiness and authenticity.The unique challenges men face in their 30s—and why community, mentorship, and male role models matter more than ever.Why healthy masculinity isn’t outdated—it’s urgently needed.Links:Website: https://www.mindfullife.coach/ https://www.mindfullife.coach/guidehttps://www.instagram.com/mindfullife_coach/ Email: [email protected] more about raising boys who become remarkable men @sonhoodcoaching.comWhy Season 3 Is DifferentToo many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.

In this episode, I sit down with Sam Mitchell, the creator and host of the hit podcast Autism Rocks and Rolls. Sam shares his journey of growing up on the autism spectrum — from the challenges of school and social life to the strength he found through family, self-advocacy, and eventually, his podcasting platform.Sam opens up about what he wishes more parents of boys understood, how gender roles and expectations impact neurodivergent kids, and the biggest misconceptions about autism that he’s determined to challenge. We also talk about his vision for Autism Rocks and Rolls in the years ahead and the surprising insights he’s gained from conversations with guests across the spectrum of life.This is a conversation about courage, persistence, and the power of embracing who you are — not just for those with autism, but for anyone navigating difference in a world that too often demands conformity.**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works: ✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day ✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience ✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********Guest BioSam Mitchell is the creator and host of Autism Rocks & Rolls, a podcast dedicated to celebrating life on the autism spectrum and challenging the stigma that surrounds it. Living with autism himself, Sam has grown his show to over 21,000 downloads and featured incredible guests, including NASCAR driver Armani Williams, American Idol rocker James Durbin, autism advocate and professor Dr. Temple Grandin, and WWE legend Mick Foley.Beyond podcasting, Sam is a motivational speaker, entrepreneur, blogger, TEDx presenter (Souled Structure), and nonprofit leader. He sells merchandise, partners with sponsors, and has been recognized with multiple honors — from the Davey Award to top placements in the People’s Choice Podcast Awards, the JAG Entrepreneurship Project, and Indiana’s CEO Trade Show. His podcast is also ranked among the top 200 in Canada.Sam’s mission is simple but powerful: to show the world that autism is not a limitation. “I am not broken, I don’t need to be fixed, and there is no normal in this world,” he says. His work spreads a message of acceptance, empowerment, and the belief that everyone deserves to embrace who they are and succeed on their own terms.Topics Covered What it was like growing up on the autism spectrumThe role his parents played in supporting his confidence and independenceWhy boys and men need space to show vulnerability and hurtMisconceptions about autism and how his podcast challenges themLessons learned from interviewing high-profile guests like Temple Grandin and Mick FoleySam’s mission to celebrate differences and show that success looks different for everyoneLinksWebsite: autismrocksandrolls.com Podcast: Autism Rocks and Rolls (available on all major platforms)TEDx Talk: Understanding Autism: Controlling chaos with structureWhy Season 3 Is Different.Too many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.More @sonhoodcoaching.com

What does it mean to grow up fast, find role models in unexpected places, and carry those lessons into some of the most high-stakes environments imaginable? In this episode, I sit down with Ryan MacDougall — podcaster, storyteller, and Correctional Peace Officer — to explore the intersections of masculinity, resilience, and mental health inside and outside prison walls.Ryan shares candidly about his childhood marked by chaos, moving away from home at 13, the mentors who stood up for him, and his years in a group home that shaped his understanding of human nature. Today, his work at the Edmonton Remand Centre puts him face-to-face with men navigating the pressures of incarceration — where questions of dignity, emotional regulation, and masculinity are tested daily.This conversation dives into the thin line between ending up on one side of the bars or the other, the power of awareness, and why mentorship can change the trajectory of a young man’s life.**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works: ✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day ✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience ✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********Guest BioRyan MacDougall is the host of Solo Spotlight and The Conversationalist, two podcasts under the Spare Bedroom Studios banner. His shows spotlight authentic stories, cultural commentary, and deep-dive conversations across diverse perspectives. Known for his grounded and engaging style, Ryan brings curiosity, candor, and humor to every dialogue.Professionally, Ryan serves as a Correctional Peace Officer for the Government of Alberta, a role that gives him a unique perspective on responsibility, resilience, and human behavior. His passion lies in storytelling, connection, and uncovering the lessons behind the headlines.Topics CoveredGrowing up in a chaotic home and the turning point of leaving at age 13The role of mentors, chosen family, and group homes in shaping resilienceDefining healthy masculinity through peace, transparency, and dignityThe thin line between correctional officer and inmate — and how the environment shapes bothThe importance of emotional awareness, boundaries, and self-reflection in high-stress workWhat parents should know if their son ever becomes incarceratedLinks https://www.youtube.com/@SparebedroomstudiosDon’t forget to subscribe, share, and tune in next week for more insights into the inner world of boys and young men.For more support, reach out to sonhoodcoaching.com**********Why Is Season 3 Different?Too many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.

In this episode of Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys!, Kathy sits down with Prof. Maurizio Rosini—international trainer, men’s coach, and founder of MyMasterMan, a movement dedicated to redefining modern masculinity. After years of success in the corporate and fashion worlds, Maurizio realized that achievement without meaning leaves men empty. Today, he guides men to drop the masks of ego and disconnection and embrace deeper purpose, grounded strength, and brotherhood.**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works: ✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day ✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience ✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********Guest Bio:Maurizio Rosini has lived and worked across Italy, the UK, Japan, the USA, Colombia, and now Malaysia, giving him a rare global perspective on men and masculinity. After a career spanning luxury fashion, corporate leadership, and academia — where he now serves as Head of Marketing and Communication at Alzette University — he founded MyMasterMan, a movement redefining modern masculinity. His work blends Stoic philosophy, Jungian psychology, and lived experience to help men overcome fear, build resilience, and live with authentic purpose.Key Topics:Masculinity itself isn’t “toxic” or “healthy” — it’s the behaviour that expresses masculine energy; the goal is grounded, embodied masculinity (body + mind + heart).Rites of passage matter: boys need intentional moments that acknowledge growth, discomfort, and responsibility — parents can create these with simple rituals and time in nature.Start emotional education early: teach emotional ownership through modeling, journaling, breathwork, and open conversation — not judgment.Look for withdrawal, secrecy, and growing dependence on substances or screens as early warning signs of isolation or addiction.Community (brotherhood/men’s circles) is not optional — it’s a crucial container for honest masculinity and healing.Maurizio leaves us with this powerful reminder: for all the shame or guilt we carry, peace comes when we find the courage to know ourselves, live authentically, and rediscover community.Connect with Mauriziowww.mymasterman.comInstagram: @my.master.manWhy Season 3 Is DifferentToo many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.Reach out to Sonhood Coaching for more support.

In this episode of Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys!, Kathy sits down with Dr. Will Dobud—researcher, educator, outdoor therapist, and co-author of Kids These Days: Understanding and Supporting Youth Mental Health. Together, they explore the complex realities facing boys and young men today, from the challenges of the education system to the importance of play, risk-taking, and authentic connection. Will shares his refreshing perspective on treating young people as “crew, not passengers,” and offers insights for parents who want to support their sons’ confidence and sense of worth, even when schools and systems feel slow to change.This conversation is filled with wisdom, storytelling, and practical advice for parents, educators, and anyone who cares about the next generation of boys.**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works: ✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day ✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience ✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********Guest BioDr. Will Dobud is an award-winning researcher, educator, and outdoor therapist whose work has been recognized internationally for excellence in research, teaching, and even crime prevention. He is a Senior Lecturer in Social Work at Charles Sturt University in Australia and an invited speaker who delivers workshops for therapists and families around the globe. Will’s research focuses on improving therapy outcomes for teenagers and promoting safe, ethical practices, especially through wilderness and adventure-based approaches.He is also the co-author, alongside Dr. Nevin J. Harper, of Kids These Days: Understanding and Supporting Youth Mental Health—a book that reframes how we see young people, reminding us of the critical role of relationships, play, and exploration in fostering resilience and well-being.Topics CoveredWhy youth mental health is best understood as a “wicked problem”Rethinking compulsory schooling and helping boys who are struggling in educationHow disconnection, over-labeling, and over-diagnosing are affecting young peopleThe importance of rough-and-tumble play for resilience and growth“Crew, not passengers”: reframing how we see young people’s role in their own livesPractical advice for parents: creating home as a safe place where boys feel heard, valued, and confidentThe power of modeling: why teens need adults worth imitatingLinks 📖 Kids These Days: Understanding and Supporting Youth Mental Health (Available September 30)www.willdobud.comhttps://www.instagram.com/kids_these_days_book/https://www.facebook.com/WillDobudPhD/https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-dobud-5209ab74/Why Season 3 Is DifferentToo many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.Learn more @sonhoodcoaching.com

Welcome back to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys! In this episode, host Kathy sits down with Scott Taylor Peek, a former private investigator and business owner who has reinvented himself as a Mental Health Coach. Scott is a staunch advocate for men’s mental health, focusing on resilience, healing, and reinvention.Scott shares his personal journey — from privilege to loss, burnout, and depression — and how those experiences shaped his calling to support teenage boys and men navigating life’s challenges. He opens up about heartbreak, anxiety, depression, masculinity, and the unique emotional depth boys feel, as well as the importance of discipline and respect.In this episode, we unpack the challenges of teen boys, highlighting South African cultural expectations while offering insights relevant to young men worldwide.**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works: ✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day ✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience ✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********Guest BioScott Taylor Peek is a former private investigator and business owner turned Mental Health Coach specializing in resilience, reinvention, and healing. A passionate advocate for men’s mental health, Scott draws on his personal journey to help others navigate life’s challenges. He has hosted an international radio show, captained South Africa’s only team to compete at the Paintball World Cup in 2009, and holds IMDB producer credits.Scott works with teen boys and men aged to build emotional resilience, navigate heartbreak, and strengthen communication skills, all while breaking the stigma around seeking help. Topics DiscussedEarly life experiences, challenges, and turning points that shaped Scott’s perspective on growing up and becoming a man.Masculinity & Cultural Expectations — what healthy masculinity looks like and how societal pressures influence boys and young men.Teenage Boys — Emotional and developmental changes during adolescence, navigating anxiety, and coping with modern influences like social media.Heartache & Relationships — How boys and men experience emotional pain, coping with breakups, and recognizing the signs of deeper distress.Discipline & Respect — Guiding boys with clear boundaries, structure, and communication while fostering responsibility and respect.Mental Health Awareness — Overcoming stigma, making support accessible, and the importance of connection and communication for emotional wellbeing.LinksScott Taylor Peek: allmylinks.com/speaktoscottyEmail Scott: [email protected]’s journey is a powerful reminder of the emotional depth and resilience of boys and men, and how support, guidance, and open communication can make a life-changing difference.Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and tune in next week for more insights into the inner world of boys and young men.For more support, reach out to sonhoodcoaching.com**********Why Is Season 3 Different?Too many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.More resources @sonhoodcoaching.com

Trigger warning: This episode discusses suicide and mental health struggles. At just 33, Craig has lived more life than most. Through deep pain, confusion, and two suicide attempts, he rebuilt himself into a better human, father, and husband. By speaking openly about his struggles, Craig offers a hopeful road map for others: it’s possible to come through, do the hard inner work, and use that experience to serve others. Craig’s journey is uncommon in its candor and all too common in its pain—yet from that struggle he’s found contentment, joy, and a fierce commitment to “Be The Best.”In this deeply personal and inspiring conversation, Kathy sits down with Craig Maddern, a proud father, Army veteran, and certified stress relief coach. After 15 years in the military and two tours in Afghanistan, Craig faced trauma, a heart pacemaker, a bipolar diagnosis, and two suicide attempts. Now, he’s on a mission to help hardworking dads break free from chronic stress, redefine masculinity, and build joyful, connected family lives.Craig shares raw truths about military culture, mental health struggles, fatherhood’s hormonal and neurological shifts, and why vulnerability is a strength—not a weakness. This is an unflinching look at the challenges and transformations men face when stepping into fatherhood and life after service.**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works:✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********Guest BioCraig Maddern is an Army veteran, award-winning author, and ICF- and NLP-accredited stress coach who helps hardworking dads break free from chronic stress and rebuild joyful, stable family lives. After 15 years of service — including two tours in Afghanistan — Craig survived a health crisis (a pacemaker), a bipolar diagnosis, and two suicide attempts, experiences that shaped his honest, practical approach to men’s mental health.  As a public speaker and men’s mental-health advocate, he coaches with no-nonsense compassion—practical tools, zero judgment—helping men move from survival to strength, and from isolation to connection.Topics DiscussedMilitary Life & Masculinity: Growing up with a strict father, lessons in discipline, and what not to repeat; joining the military at 17; unspoken rules of masculinity in the forces.Mental Health & Transition: The crash after leaving service—depression, alcohol abuse, identity loss, feeling like an outsider; surviving two suicide attempts and finding a reason to keep going.Fatherhood & the Brain: How becoming a dad lowers testosterone and raises bonding hormones, making fathers more patient; reframing this change as a parenting advantage; the impact of chronic stress on father-child connection.Healthy Masculinity & Raising Boys: Defining masculinity as compassion, leadership, emotional depth, and security without dominance; preparing boys to question online “truths” in a social media world; reminding them that real life happens offline.Legacy & Life Lessons: What Craig hopes to pass on through his books and example; his core message—family is everything, and children are forever.LinksWebsite: https://www.craigmadderncoaching.com/https://www.facebook.com/craig.maddern/Happy Man Happy Home - YouTubeHow I Went from Stress and Hospital Beds, to Enjoying My Life https://www.amazon.co.uk/went-Stress-Hospital-Beds-enjoying-ebook/dp/B0DP1PSJF5 "Calm down man Plan" going live at the end of September If you found this episode valuable, please share it, leave a review, and subscribe so you don’t miss what’s next on Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys.And reach out for more support at Sonhood Coaching.**********What Makes Season 3 Different?Too many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.Discover more at Sonhood Coaching.

In this rich and grounded conversation, Kathy sits down with Teddy Stripling, a school counselor, therapist, and host of the Talking Emotions podcast, to explore the emotional lives of boys through the lens of Gestalt therapy, fatherhood, and years of experience in both schools and private practice.Teddy brings over a decade of experience working with children and teens, and shares how his journey—from wanting to become a chef to becoming a therapist—was shaped by curiosity, creativity, and a deep desire to help young people feel seen and understood.Reflecting on his early work with younger children, Teddy describes how his role was initially framed around “fixing” kids to help them function in the classroom. But with time, he came to realize that real change starts with connection. By slowing down and getting curious about who the student is, he found more meaningful ways to support emotional growth and partner with educators.The conversation dives into the rising levels of anxiety among adolescents, especially in high-performing school environments, and how shame, peer pressure, and subtle messages around masculinity can shape a boy’s sense of identity.  Drawing from his Gestalt therapy training, Teddy explains why awareness—especially awareness of body sensations and inner experiences—is the foundation for emotional change. He speaks to the importance of giving kids space to be bored, creative, and independent, and why modeling calm and curiosity as parents is often more powerful than solving every problem.Teddy also shares the story behind his podcast Talking Emotions—a creative outlet that lets him reach students, parents, and mental health providers alike—and recounts a memorable interview that left him both inspired and a little starstruck.This conversation is full of grounded insights for parents navigating school life, identity development, and emotional presence with their boys.**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works: ✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day ✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience ✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********Guest BioTeddy Stripling is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and high school counselor based in Chicago, IL. He brings over 14 years of experience working with children and adolescents, both in schools and private practice. Teddy is trained in Gestalt therapy, certified in Shame-Informed Treatment, Anger Management, and Executive Functioning strategies. He presents at conferences in the midwest and nationally,andconsults with schools to help support youth with diverse needs.He is also the host of the podcast Talking Emotions, which bridges conversations between teens, parents, educators, and mental health providers.Topics Covered in This Episode:Teddy’s winding path from aspiring chef to therapist and school counselorWhy emotional awareness is the foundation for changeThe shift from “fixing kids” to connecting with them firstThe growing presence of anxiety in teensThe impact of school culture on boys' identity and self-esteemShame as a blocker of connection and confidenceWhat Teddy has learned from being a new dad—especially about patience and presenceThe importance of letting kids be bored, curious, and independentThe origin and vision behind Teddy’s Talking Emotions podcastMemorable Quotes:“Awareness is the engine of change. If you can start to notice what’s happening in your body, you’ll start to learn what you actually need.” — Teddy Stripling“We get messages—subtle and overt—about what it means to be a boy or man. And often, those messages don’t leave room for vulnerability or honesty.” — Teddy StriplingLinksTalking Emotions Podcast: https://present-mind.org/podcast/ West Coast Institute – Gestalt Therapy for Children & Adolescents: westcoastinstitute.usIf you found this episode valuable, please share it, leave a review, and subscribe so you don’t miss what’s next on Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys.Why Is Season 3 Different?Too many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.Find out more at Sonhood Coaching

In this powerful and eye-opening episode, we explore the science of sports injury, recovery, and brain health with Paige Roberts—sports psychology consultant, brain optimization expert, and founder of Performance Neuro Training.Paige explains how both physical and emotional trauma—such as concussions, chronic stress, and performance pressure—impact the brain, and how specific therapies can help restore brain function to its pre-injury state. Drawing from traditional practices, cutting-edge neuroscience, and her own journey through injury and loss, Paige has developed a unique, holistic approach that is transforming the way athletes heal and perform.A former NCAA athlete herself, Paige brings both lived experience and expert insight to this conversation. From trauma and concussions to performance anxiety and pressure from coaches or fathers, this is a must-listen for any parent raising a boy in sports today. We unpack the neuroscience behind emotional resilience, the risks of early sports specialization, the ongoing impact of toxic masculinity in athletics, and how we can help our sons thrive—not just on the field, but in life.This conversation is especially important for parents of boys, who often channel their sons’ energy into sports. Paige offers critical insights into how to prevent long-term injury, what to do when injury occurs, and how to support your child’s mental and emotional health through the ups and downs of competitive athletics.Whether you're raising a young athlete or simply want to better understand how trauma affects the brain—and how healing is possible—this episode delivers the knowledge, hope, and tools every parent needs.**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works: ✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day ✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience ✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********Guest BioPaige Roberts is a sports psychology consultant and an energy optimization expert. She specializes in helping high performers and athletes reset their nervous system to overcome performance anxiety, increase reaction times, decrease mistakes, increase performance confidence, decrease recovery time, get in on command and stay in flow state and reverse the damage from past stress or injuries. Paige owns a private practice (Performance Neuro Training) where she implements various neuroscience and quantum physics performance expansion modalities. Paige has a degree in Exercise Science, Master of Social Work and a Doctorate of Integrative Medicine. She is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social worker, Certified Light Therapist, Certified Brain Health and, QEEG Brain Scan Practitioner. Paige was led down the path of sports psychology through her personal experience as an NCAA athlete and the various mental and physical health challenges she faced. And through the loss of multiple athlete friends to suicide. Paige is on a mission to shift the mental health stigma paradigm. Topics CoveredPaige’s personal story: injuries, healing, and the birth of her missionWhat parents need to know about boys, sports, and mental healthThe hidden cost of early sports specializationConcussions: how they affect the brain and emotionsThe link between trauma, addiction, and nervous system dysregulationHow to help your son stay emotionally resilient under performance pressureToxic masculinity in sports and how it harms boysThe vital role of fathers—and how over-coaching can backfireThe science of flow state, brain health, and recoveryWhy crying is healthy and emotional expression is key to healingHow sports culture is beginning to shift toward openness and vulnerabilityThe importance of being a safe, emotionally present parentLinks Perform ance Neuro Trainingwww.robertsneurotraining.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sportspsychpaige/Visit SonhoodCoaching.com for more resources for raising boys.What makes Season 3 Different?Too many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.

In this episode of Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys, Kathy sits down with Samir Aweidah—a deeply thoughtful, nuanced thinker whose life journey spans cultures, questions, and real conversations about what it means to grow into manhood today.From growing up with young parents in the Middle East to navigating identity, masculinity, and mental health in Canada, Samir shares insight into the emotional terrain boys and men walk—and how society often misses the full picture. Together, they explore the power of mentorship, the importance of vulnerability, and why healthy risk-taking is essential for development.This conversation offers something rare: space to reflect, question, and feel understood. Whether you're a young man, raising boys or simply care about the next generation of men, this episode is a powerful reminder that real conversations do create real change.LISTEN / WATCH HERE: **********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works: ✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day ✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience ✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********Guest BioSamir Aweidah is a multidisciplinary thinker known for his curiosity, compassion, and ability to see beneath the surface of social expectations. Raised between cultures, Samir brings a global lens to conversations around identity, masculinity, and emotional growth. He’s passionate about nuance, honest dialogue, and the kind of introspection that leads to deeper human connection. Whether one-on-one or in group circles, Samir’s approach to conversation is both grounded and expansive—always aiming to understand, rather than to judge.Topics Covered:Masculinity Reimagined: What values define manhood today?Growing Up with Young Parents: Early insights from layered family dynamicsHealthy Risk & Rites of Passage: Why challenge matters in a boy’s developmentVulnerability & Friendship: Redefining strength through emotional honestyPornography as Super-Stimulus: Intimacy, overstimulation, and learning the wrong lessonsMentorship & Male Circles: The role of supported risk and being “caught when you leap”Middle Eastern Identity & Gender Norms: Breaking the mold from withinSchool, Humor, and Learning Through Laughter: Rethinking how boys are taughtMental Health, Mindfulness & Meaningful Conversations: What boys really needQuotes:“Risk without failure is not possible. You have to fail in order to grow.”“There’s so much talk about redefining masculinity—but for me, it’s about vulnerability, honesty, and presence.”“When we let go of pressure to act a certain way, we make space for who we really are.”Links:https://www.instagram.com/sphereofsamir/Thank you for listening to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys—where real conversations create real change. Find out more about boys at Sonhood Coaching. WHY SEASON 3 IS DIFFERENTToo many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.

Many young men, like Jack, grow up carrying the weight of a challenging childhood, stepping into adulthood with a fragile or diminished sense of self. Jack’s voice gives shape to what has been called the Silent Crisis—a growing mental health concern among men—and offers a vivid, personal glimpse into what it means to be one of the many boys who feel lost. Listening to this conversation opens a door into the inner world of a young man who is trying to make sense of himself and the world around him. It’s a powerful invitation to understand the emotional realities that too often go unspoken.Episode SummaryIn this deeply personal conversation, Kathy sits down with Jack Seikaly—a Lebanese photographer, political analyst, and visual storyteller—for a raw and powerful exploration of masculinity, identity, and mental health. Jack opens up about the emotional terrain of growing up in a tumultuous relationship with his father and a complex one with his mother, the burdens of male expectations, and his lifelong search for self-worth. Together, they explore how boys come to measure their value, why so many men suffer in silence, and the hidden crisis of loneliness and low self-esteem in men’s mental health.You’ll hear Jack reflect on what remains when all titles and achievements fall away—grappling with the question, “Who am I, really?” He explains how he reframed his relationship with his father by moving him “into the friend box,” creating connection without resentment. He also speaks honestly about the tension between solitude and connection in our digital age, and what it means to seek community while often feeling emotionally alone.**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works: ✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day ✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience ✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********Guest BioJack Seikaly is a Lebanese photographer, political analyst, and visual storyteller known for his bold infrared photography and his documentation of Lebanon’s 2019 revolution. His work has been featured in WIRED and exhibited globally. Jack is largely shaped by growing up in an unstable political environment in Lebanon, as well as the spontaneous existence in the Cedars that fostered the creativity needed for photography.Beyond his public achievements, Jack is a young man navigating what it means to be male in today’s world—with honesty, emotional depth, and an unwavering willingness to examine the hard questions.Topics CoveredEarly family dynamics & how childhood experiences shape adult self-worthRebuilding a fractured father-son relationship through reframing and emotional boundariesMasculinity redefined: what Jack learned from both his mother’s values and his father’s expectationsSolitude vs. community: why emotional isolation persists even in connectionMasculinity, Sensitivity & Emotional ExpressionPurpose, Achievement & Self-WorthBuilding Authentic Friendship & CommunityLinks Website: https://jackseikaly.comInstagram: @jrseikalyYouTube / intogrey: https://youtube.com/intogreyIf this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who’s raising a boy—or someone who needs to hear it. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and join us next week for more real conversations on Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys.**********Why Is Season 3 Different?Too many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.Learn more @sonhoodcoaching.com

This episode has the power to transform how we see neurodiversity. Nova’s passion mirrors my own: awareness, understanding, and perspective are the essential ingredients for creating a more compassionate world for anyone who doesn’t fit society’s mold. By viewing neurodiversity through a new lens, parents and children alike can recognize that there’s nothing “wrong” with them—they simply communicate differently. It’s our responsibility to learn that language and help bridge the gap. As a neurodivergent mother raising two neurodivergent children, Nova intimately knows what it’s like to feel boxed in, misunderstood, and judged—and then watch her own children face the same struggle. She’s uncovered the key insights into what it truly means to be neurodivergent and offers listeners a fresh, inclusive perspective. This is a heartfelt, essential conversation that you’ll want to absorb—and share with anyone who needs its inspiring message.In this powerful and eye-opening episode, host Kathy sits down with Nova Rose—a neurodivergent-informed parent coach, and fierce advocate for families navigating autism, ADHD, and big emotions.Nova supports neurodivergent tweens, teens, and parents through a blend of mindset work, nervous system tools, and practical strategies that help regulate emotions and build confidence. She brings science and soul to her work, helping families shift from chaos to connection.Nova shares her personal story—the heartbreak of repeated meltdowns at playgroups, the guilt of feeling like a “bad parent,” and the eventual relief and empowerment that came with the discovery that both of her children—and herself—are neurodivergent.Together we explore:The unique emotional regulation challenges neurodivergent boys face in neurotypical systemsHow labels like autism or ADHD can both help and hinderPractical tools like EFT “magic buttons,” mindset reframes, and nervous-system–based strategiesWhy shame often sits at the root of behavioral struggles—and how to shift itWhat educators need to understand about energy, communication, and supportNova challenges the cultural narrative around “fixing” neurodivergent kids and invites us to see emotional outbursts not as bad behavior, but as communication. This conversation is packed with hard-won wisdom, emotional truth, and the tools parents need to feel less alone—and more empowered.**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works: ✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day ✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience ✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********Guest BioNova Rose is a certified NLP Coach, Timeline Therapy® Practitioner, EFT (Tapping) Practitioner, Certified Youth Mentor, and Accredited Mental Health First Aider. After discovering that both of her children—and later herself—were autistic and ADHD, she retrained to fill the support gap she wished had existed for her family. Today, she helps neurodivergent tweens, teens, and parents regulate big emotions, heal from shame, and build self-esteem through a compassionate, science-backed, soul-centered approach.Topics CoveredWhat it really means to be neurodivergent vs. neurotypicalThe emotional toll of parenting undiagnosed ND kidsWhy traditional parenting strategies often fail neurodivergent childrenHow Nova discovered her own neurodivergence through her childrenEmotional regulation challenges unique to neurodivergent boysUnderstanding meltdowns, shutdowns, and sensory overwhelmTools like EFT “magic buttons” and nervous system resetsWhat educators must understand about energy and emotional safetyHow shame impacts behavior—and how to shift from shame to self-worthLabels: how they can help, and how they can limitThe crisis of self-esteem in neurodivergent boys—and how to rebuild itThe power of blending science and soul in parenting support🔗 Links Nova Rose Coaching (Website & Bookings): https://novarose.as.me Instagram: @nova_rose_coaching  Facebook: Nova Rose CoachingFor more support, reach out to sonhoodcoaching.comWhat makes Season 3 Different?Too many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.

What I loved most about this conversation is the story of a young man whose foundation of life was impacted by an absent father—followed by several stepdads who caused more harm than healing. Brennan and his wife started out on a “minus scale,” and instead of repeating the patterns they inherited, they made a conscious choice to create a different life.They are doing the inner work. They’re asking the hard questions. And they’re choosing to parent with intention—building a home grounded in faith, emotional honesty, and resilience. This episode is about masculinity, fatherhood, and what it really means to lead from within.In this episode, I’m joined by Brennan Falks—a father, entrepreneur, and founder of Path to Great, a personal development company rooted in faith and practical wisdom. We talk openly about the challenges men face today, the unspoken weight of being a provider and protector, and the emotional patterns Brennan had to unlearn after growing up in a home without a healthy male role model. He explains how self-leadership, emotional intelligence, and spiritual grounding have helped him become the kind of father his kids can trust, learn from, and lean on.If you’ve ever wondered how to raise emotionally healthy children in a noisy world, this conversation is full of clarity, challenge, and encouragement.**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works:✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********Guest BioBrennan Falks is the founder of Path to Great, a personal development company that equips individuals to grow intentionally across six core life zones: health, wealth, faith, family, community, and social-emotional wellness. Through coaching, tools, and habit systems, Brennan empowers others to live with clarity and purpose. A devoted husband and father of two, Brennan integrates faith, effort, and humility into every area of life and leadership.Topics CoveredThe balance of toughness and tenderness in modern masculinityBreaking free from the "Boy Code" and learning emotional regulationWhat it means to lead your home by leading yourselfWhy emotional intelligence is non-negotiable for fathersBrennan’s reflections on the 3 Ps of masculinity: protect, provide, procreateHow fatherhood exposed childhood wounds—and began the healingThe impact of homeschooling and intentional parentingWhy faith plays a central role in raising childrenBuilding trust through transparency and brutal honesty with your kidsBrennan’s Links🌐 Website: www.pathtogreat.co🔗 Linktree: linktr.ee/pathtogreat**********Too many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.Learn more at Sonhood Coaching

If you're the parent of a boy heading into adolescence, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. When I first met Keoni, I was struck by how grounded and self-aware he was — clear in his values and intentional about the future he’s building. I was genuinely surprised to learn he's still in his teens and that he made a major life shift at just 16 years old. If I were raising a young boy today, hearing Keoni’s reflections on life as a Gen Z young man would give me hope and a deeper sense of what’s possible during those often turbulent teenage years.Episode Summary:In this powerful and vulnerable conversation, 19-year-old entrepreneur and podcast host Keoni Upton joins Kathy to reflect on the challenges and turning points of growing up male today. From being diagnosed with dyslexia early in school, to navigating risky peer pressure and turning his life around after a near-traumatic incident at 16, Keoni shares the personal journey that inspired him to create The Growth Concept podcast and his media company, TGC Media.Together, Kathy and Keoni explore the critical role of mentorship, emotional presence from fathers, the impact of school systems, and the mental health crisis among Gen Z boys. This episode is a must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone who wants to better understand the emotional world of boys and what they need to thrive.**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works: ✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day ✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience ✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********Guest Bio:Keoni Upton is the host of The Growth Concept podcast, where he interviews inspiring guests to share powerful lessons on personal development, mindset, and success. He's also the founder of TGC Media, which helps brands grow with strategy-driven content and an authentic online presence. Through his podcast and digital services, Keoni empowers individuals to unlock their potential and create meaningful impact. Passionate about growth and connection, he’s building a community driven by purpose, progress, and real conversations. Key Topics Covered:Growing up in Perth with dyslexia and how school systems failed to support boys with learning differencesThe importance of emotionally present parentingA life-changing moment at 16 and what it taught Keoni about trust, safety, and resilienceHow environment and peer culture can shape or derail a young man’s futureWhat Gen Z boys are facing with digital life, loneliness, and social media's influenceThe difference between real connection and online validationWhy we need more intentional communities, clubs, and groups for boysFamily values, mental health habits, and the foundation for manhood that school doesn't teachConnect with Keoni Upton:Instagram: @the_growth.conceptPodcast: The Growth Concept on BuzzsproutYouTube: @TheGrowthConcept1**********💛 Resources & Next StepsLearn more about Sonhood Coaching: sonhoodcoaching.comBook a Discovery Call: Calendly: Tiny Challenge CallThanks for listening!If today’s conversation resonated with you, please share it with someone who needs it, leave a review, and subscribe. Join us next week for another deep dive on Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys.Season 3: Real Talk, Real Experts, Real BoysToo many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.Looking to transform your relationship with your son? Visit SonhoodCoaching.com for valuable resources and personalized support.

Dr. Alifano radiates genuine warmth and compassion. He moves through life with a deep, unwavering desire to truly understand others—and he’s spent decades honing the art of listening to do just that. As someone who has spent much of my own life refining how I listen, I was surprised—and deeply moved—by the powerful insights he shared. There were key elements I had completely missed, yet they make all the difference when it comes to truly connecting with others.This is a rich and meaningful episode for anyone who wants to strengthen their relationships, deepen their empathy, and better understand what’s really in the hearts and minds of the people they care about. Have a listen—you’ll see.**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works: ✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day ✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience ✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********GUEST BIODr. Alifano has a Ph.D. in clinical psychology and is an Ordained Minister with over 40 years of experience integrating psychology and spirituality in his private practice. He has worked with thousands of people at various stages of their lives, listening to their dreams and aspirations, traumas and confusions, and their desire to live life more attuned to their inner wisdom. And he has loved doing it his entire career. Over the decades, he has studied numerous theories and methodologies—both psychological and spiritual—and they have all filtered down to inform who he is and how he works. His book, Listening in the Raw, teaches how to listen from our unadulterated curiosity and beyond the commonly taught listening techniques, which ironically can inhibit deeper listening. Our sole intention and desire is to understand the speaker at an intimate level where our intentions do not get in the way of hearing so that the separation between self and other momentarily disappears. This not only serves the speaker but expands the listener's perspective beyond the confines of their filtered presumptions. This penetrates the shell of our collective isolation, eases the whirlpool of our emotional turmoil, and has a profound impact on any relationship.What We Cover in This Episode:Presence > Procedure – Checklists can keep us in our heads; true listening starts in the body with felt curiosity.Name the Filter, Loosen Its Grip – Notice the inner flinch (judgment, fear, low self-esteem). Label it, breathe, re-open.Curiosity Is Connection – A single genuine question—“What’s it like to be you right now?”—outperforms any ready-made advice.Humor Heals – Light, respectful laughter can puncture shame and invite receptivity.Self-Care Fuels Listening – Parents who pause to regulate their own stress buy the extra three minutes of presence that can change everything.Dr. Randal Alifani’s book: Listening in the Raw: Coming Home to ReceptivityRandall Alifano PhD, OM: Psycho-Spiritual CounselingEarl Of Dad Jokes(Randal'son,Lucas)Season 3 Is DifferentToo many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.Visit sonhoodcoaching.com to learn more.

Our 1st DAD guest of Season 3 is a powerful conversation featuring Matthew Biswas, a father of three who found himself navigating solo parenthood after his wife left in 2015. With a 20-year-old daughter and two sons aged 15 and 9 at the time, Matthew chose to step fully into the role of the only parent—not just a single one.He shares how he made the decision to move forward with as little disruption as possible, putting his children first in every way—from home-cooked meals to emotional modeling, from structured routines to deep personal growth. Along the way, he discovered a deeper sense of self, did the hard inner work, and eventually co-founded Men and Mastery, a space for men to connect, learn, and grow.This episode is full of honest reflections, powerful lessons, and actionable takeaways for anyone raising boys—especially those doing it solo.**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works: ✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day ✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience ✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********Guest Bio Matthew Biswas is a solo dad, business owner, and co-founder of Men and Mastery—a community-driven initiative that supports men in personal growth, leadership, and relationships. A firm believer in “walking the talk,” Matthew brings authenticity, vulnerability, and deep insight into what it truly means to raise boys in today’s world.Since 2015, he’s raised his three kids on his own—leaning into structure, support, and self-reflection. A self-described marketing marauder, novice runner, motorcycle enthusiast, and unapologetic lover of all things ’80s, Matthew brings energy and depth to both his parenting and professional life. He’s also a committed volunteer who stays active through softball, golf, and regular gym sessions.His parenting philosophy is simple: do better, stay present, and keep kids engaged in strong, healthy environments.What We Cover in This Episode:What life looked like before and after Matthew became a solo parentHow he balanced being a provider, nurturer, and emotional anchorThe conscious decisions he made to model healthy masculinity for his sonsThe truth about "co-parenting" vs. solo parentingHow cooking, calendars, and communication became survival toolsHis journey into men’s work and the creation of Men and MasteryAdvice for dads raising sons alone and trying to get it “right”Why keeping kids busy in good environments became his golden ruleWhy he believes, “You are not alone”"Every moment was about modeling the kind of man I wanted my sons to become." Matthew reminds us that leadership in parenting doesn’t mean perfection—it means presence, accountability, and growth.Connect with Matthew:*Website: menandmastery.com*Instagram: @menandmastery | Instagram: @matthewbiswas*More from Matthew: https://linktr.ee/matthewbiswasThank you for listening to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with another parent raising boys. About Sonhood CoachingAt Sonhood Coaching, we believe raising boys is one of the most meaningful—and misunderstood—journeys a parent can take. Through personalized coaching, online resources, and insights grounded in real experience, we help parents build deeper, more connected relationships with their sons—relationships that deserve understanding, connection, and intention.Whether you're navigating big emotions, misbehaviour, or just trying to get your boy to open up, we’re here with clarity, compassion, and practical tools that work.Learn more at sonhoodcoaching.com“Our job is too difficult and too beautiful to do alone.” – Amelia Gambetti

Season 3 kicks off with a high bar, and our very first episode dives deep into modern masculinity through the eyes of someone living it every day—my son, Toshi. Having him as our inaugural young man’s voice was uniquely special. Though we talk often, sharing these insights on a public platform opened the door to understanding boys even wider.Toshi offers a fresh perspective on nature versus nurture—and challenges the idea that genders are so different after all. He speaks candidly about how today’s education system can fuel men’s mental-health struggles, and he reflects on a recent personal challenge that reshaped his view of life’s true quality.From shifting gender norms to mental health challenges, education gaps, and rediscovering the authentic self, Toshi shares candid insights drawn from his own experiences growing up and navigating modern pressures.Full disclosure: I’m biased as his mom, but this conversation is important. Men will find comfort in knowing they’re not alone, and parents or caregivers will gain rare access to the emotional world of boys—something I’m always passionate about illuminating. Enjoy the episode, then please share it with someone who needs to hear it.Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works: ✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day ✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience ✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.Guest BioToshi is a creator and professional problem solver who loves spending time with family and immersing himself in nature. He cherishes authentic expression and advocates for kinder, more flexible norms around masculinity and learning.Key TopicsBeing a Man TodayGender roles are shaped more by nurture—our environments and media—than nature.Today’s generation has both more freedom and more conflicting messages about masculinity.Protector, Provider, Procreator?Traditional archetypes (protector/provider) may be fundamentally human rather than strictly gendered.Cultural expectations and media-driven ideals create boxes that can be challenging to fit into.Mental Health & LonelinessAuthentic self-expression and real-world connections are vital antidotes.Education & OpportunityOne-size-fits-all schooling “forces a turtle to run faster than a cheetah.”A more flexible, interest-driven learning environment could nurture boys’ curiosity and confidence.Pressure PointsSocietal pressure to maintain an emotional “flatline” can stifle authenticity.Comparing oneself to an idealized standard—reinforced by peers and media—fuels negative self-worth.Rediscovering the Authentic SelfIt’s easy to drift away from who you truly are.Practice self-kindness and question “should” narratives to realign with your authentic self.📌 Notable Quotes“The farther you get away from your authentic self, the more negative experiences you have.” “There’s no one way to do it—just ways that are more or less authentic expressions of the self.” “Enjoy the good times and remember that the bad times will pass.”🔗 Connect with ToshiYouTube: @toshi.hiroInstagram: @toshi.music SoundCloud: toshi-hiro💛 Resources & Next StepsLearn more about Sonhood Coaching: sonhoodcoaching.comBook a Discovery Call: Calendly: Tiny Challenge CallThanks for listening!If today’s conversation resonated with you, please share it with someone who needs it, leave a review, and subscribe. Join us next week for another deep dive on Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys.Season 3: Real Talk, Real Experts, Real BoysToo many boys today feel lost, alone, and misunderstood. And far too often, the same is true for their parents.Behind the troubling statistics is a generation of boys quietly longing to be seen, heard, and valued — yet the conversation around boys’ emotional lives remains far too quiet.Season 3 of Unlocking the Parenting Code is here to change that.In this new season, you’ll hear:🔹 Real conversations with young men who are ready to share their truth.🔹 Powerful insights from experts in boys’ mental and emotional health.🔹 And raw, real wisdom from dads who are walking this road every day🔹 Solo episodes where I reflect on what I’ve witnessed, wrestled with, and learnedAt the heart of this season — and at the heart of Sonhood Coaching — is a mission:To understand the inner emotional world of boys, to recognize the very real challenges they face, and to name the damaging myths and societal expectations that continue to shape how we see, treat, and raise our sons.This is not about fixing boys.It’s about truly seeing them — and learning how to show up differently, with compassion, courage, and connection.Together, we’re building a world where boys feel safe to be their authentic selves.Because when we get it right for our boys, we begin to heal something much bigger.Looking to transform your relationship with your son? Visit SonhoodCoaching.com for valuable resources and personalized support.

What I Learned from 35 ConversationsAs I step into Season 3 of Unlocking The Parenting Code:All About Boys, I’ve been reflecting — really sitting with the journey this podcast has taken me on. Reflection gives us that rare birds-eye view of where we've been, and I’ve been in awe of the depth and breadth of what’s unfolded.I’ve had the honour of hosting over 35 conversations with people who’ve shared their stories, their insights, their hearts. Some connections were fleeting but powerful. Others have become lasting relationships — part of my village now. What I didn’t anticipate was how much personal growth would come from simply listening. How many times I found myself challenged, inspired, or moved to tears.There were topics I knew little about — homeschooling, fostering and adoption , neurodivergence — and each guest became a teacher. Some conversations sparked joy and optimism, reminding me that the world is still full of goodness, even if we don’t always see it on the news. And other times, I had to sit with discomfort and ask myself why a certain idea or story triggered something in me — and those moments, too, became a path to healing and growing.This special kickoff episode is a look back and a look forward.You'll get glimpses of the many voices of Seasons 1 and 2 — voices that might draw you toward episodes you hadn’t yet explored.You can check them all out wherever you go for your podcasts:Apple Podcasts:https:https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/unlocking-the-parenting-code-all-about-boys/id1781568167Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6cB2sZQppAEu5CVvDdls9pYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sonhoodcoaching/podcasts🎙️ And then, we begin something new. Season 3 is about REAL TALK, REAL EXPERTS, REAL BOYS — and we’re going deep.This season is all about hearing from:Experts sharing wisdom that will impact not only how we parent our sons, but also how we interact with everyone we are in contact with.Dads raising children with strength and vulnerability.Young men, speaking about what it means to grow up male in today’s world — the pressures, the hopes, the expectations.And yes, there will be Solo Episodes too — where I’ll share what I’m learning, what I’m seeing, and what’s sitting heavy or beautiful on my heart.I believe this season will be something very special. I can feel it. And I’m so excited to have you here for it.If you know an expert whose work would be exactly what this audience would benefit from, a dad in the thick of parenting, or a young man open to sharing his voice, please connect us. This truly takes a village.You can listen to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys on your favourite podcast app, and watch the video versions here.“Our job is too difficult and too beautiful to do alone.” — Amelia GambettiLet’s continue this journey together.Reach out to https://www.sonhoodcoaching.com/ for more support. Join our free weekly newsletter to hear about the challenges and gifts of raising boys. http://eepurl.com/hz7P7HUnlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysJoin Us!Whether you're raising a toddler, a teen, or anywhere in between, this podcast is all about celebrating and supporting boys—and the people who guide them. Tune in for heart-centered conversations, expert advice, and practical tools to unlock the parenting code for boys. Visit SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more and subscribe!About Sonhood CoachingSonhood Coaching focuses on the emotional well-being of boys, helping parents nurture their sons to become remarkable men. Through courses, coaching, and resources, we empower families to better understand and support the inner emotional world of boys. Explore SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more about our programs and services.Looking to transform your relationship with your son? Visit SonhoodCoaching.com for valuable resources and expert support.

In this episode of Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys, Kathy sits down with father, coach, and Navy veteran David Kiwimagi to explore what it really takes to raise boys (and girls!) with strong inner compasses in today’s world. David shares his journey—from church ministry in Japan, to Navy operations and cybersecurity leadership, to co-founding a coaching business with his wife.He opens up about how a pivotal parenting course transformed his understanding of what it means to raise children with integrity and purpose, igniting his passion for helping them build their own “moral warehouse.”David dives into real-world strategies for communicating “in a way that matters” with his three children—tailoring his approach to his son’s intellectual curiosity, his daughter’s emotional depth, and the unique needs of his youngest.Throughout the conversation, David reflects on how fatherhood reshaped his views on legacy, emotional connection, and the kind of communication that empowers children to think for themselves and choose what’s right—even when no one is watching.Guest BioDavid Kiwimagi is a husband, father of three, and Co-Founder of Kiwi Coaching. With 15 years of leadership experience across Japan church ministry, Navy operations, and cybersecurity, he has coached hundreds to lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose. Whether in military or corporate settings, David is passionate about helping leaders break through what's holding them back and step fully into who they were born to be and helping his sons do the same.Key Topics *From Ministry to Cybersecurity to CoachingHow chance encounters, financial need, and a deep love for service guided David’s winding career path.*The “Moral Warehouse”Why teaching kids why rules exist builds internal motivation to “do the right thing” when no one’s watching.*Communication That MattersTailoring conversations to each child’s age, personality, and passion—whether it’s sea-turtle entrepreneurship with his son or heart-to-heart hugs with his daughter.*Leadership Lessons in ParentingCreating emotional safety to encourage growth, resilience, and innovation. Balancing protection with empowerment—"I’ll be the net to catch you" philosophy*Humility & ConfidenceWalking the line between celebrating wins and asking kids, “What do you really want?” to redefine success.Resources MentionedThe Happiest Baby on the Block – Dr. Harvey KarpThe Miracle Morning – Hal ElrodCrucial Conversations – Kerry PattersonLinksWebsite: davidandalexiskiwi.orghttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554014347323, https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwsBgNU7e1wu7rQdrDQrh8A YouTube | Instagram | Facebook: @davidandalexiskiwiUnlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysWelcome to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysThis season, we’re diving deep into the world of boys—exploring what it takes to raise them to become remarkable young men. Hosted by Kathy Imabayashi, an experienced educator and passionate advocate for boys’ emotional well-being, this podcast offers real-life stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers navigating the unique challenges of raising boys.What to ExpectIn Season 2, we’re focusing on boys' emotional worlds—understanding their behavior, building stronger connections, and helping them grow into confident, resilient individuals. Through heartfelt conversations and shared experiences, we’ll uncover the struggles, joys, and breakthroughs of parenting boys.Each episode offers:*Stories from parents, teachers, and caregivers that shed light on the complexities of raising boys.*Strategies to support boys in managing emotions, forming healthy relationships, and building self-esteem.*Insights that will empower you in understanding how to nurture the boy in your life and set him up for success.Join Us!Whether you're raising a toddler, a teen, or anywhere in between, this season is all about celebrating and supporting boys—and the parents who guide them. Tune in for heart-centered conversations, expert advice, and practical tools to unlock the parenting code for boys.Share your parenting story with us here. Visit SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more and subscribe!About Sonhood CoachingSonhood Coaching focuses on the emotional well-being of boys, helping parents nurture their sons to become remarkable men. Through courses, coaching, and resources, we empower families to better understand and support the inner emotional world of boys. Explore SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more about our programs and services.Looking to transform your relationship with your son? Visit SonhoodCoaching.com for valuable resources and expert support.Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/3r1P34cG-bc?si=n-LkwAiamU6__UGk

In this episode of Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys, Kathy sits down with Laura Vosika—author, musician, publisher, and mother of nine (seven boys and two girls)—to explore what it’s really like to raise a large family and to reflect on the innate differences between boys and girls.Laura shares vivid stories from her early parenting years: juggling music teaching, raising a full household, and keeping her creative spirit alive—all while intentionally creating a home that felt loving and accepting, a contrast to the more perfection-driven environment she grew up in.From growing up in the 1970s believing that gender differences were purely socialized, to seeing those beliefs shift as she raised her sons and daughters, Laura offers wisdom that’s both deeply personal and refreshingly honest.Together, Kathy and Laura unpack what it takes to raise emotionally grounded boys, the power of trusting your instincts, and the beauty of letting kids grow into who they truly are. Whether you're raising one child or a full baseball team, this conversation will leave you inspired.Guest Bio Laura Vosika is an accomplished author, musician, and publisher, best known for her time-travel series The Blue Bells Chronicles. As founder of Gabriel’s Horn Press and co-host of the Books & Brews podcast, she combines her creative passions with decades of hands-on parenting experience. Raising nine children (seven sons and two daughters) has taught Laura a powerful lesson: boys and girls are innately different, and honoring those differences is key to helping children grow into strong, emotionally grounded adults.Key Topics Laura’s Parenting JourneyBalancing Creativity, Music & MotherhoodChallenging 1970s Gender Beliefs with Real-Life Boys: Why boys and girls are not the same—and why that mattersAppreciating boys for who they are: their energy, instincts, and interestsSchool Struggles, ADHD & Ritalin Decisions: The vital role of physical activity Co-Parenting Across Cultures & Divorce ReflectionsGrandparenting: Seeing Your Children as ParentsParenting then vs. now: screen time, safety fears, and the pressure of modern lifeFinal Thoughts: Accepting Kids Just as They AreLinks & ResourcesLaura’s Website: www.lauravosika.comGabriel’s Horn Press: www.gabriels-horn.comThe Blue Bells Chronicles Series: Books & Brews ShopBooks & Brews Podcast: www.booksandbrews.net/podcastFollow Laura on Facebook: facebook.com/laura.vosika.authorUnlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysWelcome to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysThis season, we’re diving deep into the world of boys—exploring what it takes to raise them to become remarkable young men. Hosted by Kathy Imabayashi, an experienced educator and passionate advocate for boys’ emotional well-being, this podcast offers real-life stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers navigating the unique challenges of raising boys.What to ExpectIn Season 2, we’re focusing on boys' emotional worlds—understanding their behavior, building stronger connections, and helping them grow into confident, resilient individuals. Through heartfelt conversations and shared experiences, we’ll uncover the struggles, joys, and breakthroughs of parenting boys.Each episode offers:*Stories from parents, teachers, and caregivers that shed light on the complexities of raising boys.*Strategies to support boys in managing emotions, forming healthy relationships, and building self-esteem.*Insights that will empower you in understanding how to nurture the boy in your life and set him up for success.Join Us!Whether you're raising a toddler, a teen, or anywhere in between, this season is all about celebrating and supporting boys—and the parents who guide them. Tune in for heart-centered conversations, expert advice, and practical tools to unlock the parenting code for boys.Share your parenting story with us here. Visit SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more and subscribe!About Sonhood CoachingSonhood Coaching focuses on the emotional well-being of boys, helping parents nurture their sons to become remarkable men. Through courses, coaching, and resources, we empower families to better understand and support the inner emotional world of boys. Explore SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more about our programs and services.Looking to transform your relationship with your son? Visit SonhoodCoaching.com for valuable resources and expert support.

In this episode of Unlocking the Parenting Code:ALL ABOUT BOYS, Kathy sits down with Charles Hall—a devoted father, podcast host, and founder of Crown & Compass—to talk about healing from childhood trauma, breaking generational cycles, and becoming a more emotionally present parent. Charles shares his powerful journey through early wounds, faith-based healing, and what it means to raise sons with emotional intelligence and spiritual guidance. Together, they explore attachment, identity, and the critical role of self-awareness in raising emotionally resilient boys.Guest BioCharles Hall is the founder and host of Crown & Compass, a platform dedicated to helping people heal emotional trauma, renew their minds, and build spiritually grounded, emotionally intelligent lives. Through workshops, coaching, podcasting, and community support, Charles helps individuals reconnect with their identity and inner guidance to lead lives rooted in love and truth. A father of three with one on the way, Charles brings real-world insight and a deep commitment to transforming how we parent—starting from the inside out.Key Topics *Charles’s personal journey: growing up with a workaholic dad and a hoarding mom*Healing from the “invisible hero” identity and perfectionism*Fatherhood across three life stages and blended family dynamics*Shifting from “decent” parenting to deeply present parenting*The power of emotional intelligence—especially for men*How children form identity through attachment and modeling*Breaking generational trauma with awareness and compassion*Unpacking the myth: “Children are the problem”*Using love to speak louder than inherited lies*Teaching kids to manage feelings while staying emotionally open*Living by the “Crown & Compass” philosophy: identity and inner guidance*Upcoming Kingdom Attachment series and how spiritual truths shape parentingLinks Website: Crown Compass LLC.comYouTube: Crown & Compass Coaching Podcast Upcoming: Kingdom Attachment Series – a deep dive into identity, relationships, and spiritual development through the lens of attachment theory and parables.Rate, review, and share Unlocking the Parenting Code:ALL ABOUT BOYS  to support more honest, healing conversations for parents everywhere.Have a guest suggestion or want to get in touch? Reach out at [email protected] the Parenting Code: All About BoysWelcome to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysThis season, we’re diving deep into the world of boys—exploring what it takes to raise them to become remarkable young men. Hosted by Kathy Imabayashi, an experienced educator and passionate advocate for boys’ emotional well-being, this podcast offers real-life stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers navigating the unique challenges of raising boys.What to ExpectIn Season 2, we’re focusing on boys' emotional worlds—understanding their behavior, building stronger connections, and helping them grow into confident, resilient individuals. Through heartfelt conversations and shared experiences, we’ll uncover the struggles, joys, and breakthroughs of parenting boys.Each episode offers:*Stories from parents, teachers, and caregivers that shed light on the complexities of raising boys.*Strategies to support boys in managing emotions, forming healthy relationships, and building self-esteem.*Insights that will empower you in understanding how to nurture the boy in your life and set him up for success.Join Us!Whether you're raising a toddler, a teen, or anywhere in between, this season is all about celebrating and supporting boys—and the parents who guide them. Tune in for heart-centered conversations, expert advice, and practical tools to unlock the parenting code for boys.Share your parenting story with us here. Visit SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more and subscribe!About Sonhood CoachingSonhood Coaching focuses on the emotional well-being of boys, helping parents nurture their sons to become remarkable men. Through courses, coaching, and resources, we empower families to better understand and support the inner emotional world of boys. Explore SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more about our programs and services.Looking to transform your relationship with your son? Visit SonhoodCoaching.com for valuable resources and expert support.

In this episode of Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys, Kathy sits down with Marie Carrillon, a podcast host, entrepreneur, and proud mom who brings her full honesty and heart to this candid conversation. Originally from France and now raising two young children in Sydney,Australia, Marie shares her journey through motherhood—including navigating postpartum depression, parenting in a new country, and the emotional highs and lows of raising a sensitive, spirited boy.Together, Kathy and Marie explore what it means to nurture connection, hold space for emotional expression, and reject the unrealistic pressures modern mothers face. This episode is packed with wisdom, warmth, and the kind of real talk every mom needs to hear.Guest BioMarie Carrillon is a podcast host, entrepreneur, and passionate advocate for women stepping into their power. She’s the voice behind the Lucky Last podcast, which shares inspiring stories of resilience and self-worth. A native of France, Marie now lives in Sydney with her husband and two young children—a spirited 5-year-old boy and a curious toddler daughter. As a mother, Marie is deeply committed to creating honest conversations about the real challenges of parenting while honoring the messy beauty of motherhood.Key Topics The cultural contrasts of parenting in France vs. AustraliaNavigating postpartum depression and reconnecting with your babyRaising a sensitive boy and the emotional bond between mothers and sonsLetting go of guilt and unrealistic expectations in motherhoodCoping with isolation as an expat mom without a local villageEmbracing bilingualism and keeping cultural traditions aliveWhy comparison is harmful and how mothers can lift one another upThe myth of the “perfect parent” and learning to trust your gutEncouragement for moms who feel like they’re getting it all wrongLinksPodcast:Lucky LastInstagram: @luckylast_podcastWhether you're raising children in a foreign land,or finding your way through the fog of early motherhood, this episode is a reminder: you're not alone, you're not doing it wrong, and your story matters. Tune in, take a breath, and remember—there’s beauty in the chaos.Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysWelcome to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysThis season, we’re diving deep into the world of boys—exploring what it takes to raise them to become remarkable young men. Hosted by Kathy Imabayashi, an experienced educator and passionate advocate for boys’ emotional well-being, this podcast offers real-life stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers navigating the unique challenges of raising boys.What to ExpectIn Season 2, we’re focusing on boys' emotional worlds—understanding their behavior, building stronger connections, and helping them grow into confident, resilient individuals. Through heartfelt conversations and shared experiences, we’ll uncover the struggles, joys, and breakthroughs of parenting boys.Each episode offers:*Stories from parents, teachers, and caregivers that shed light on the complexities of raising boys.*Strategies to support boys in managing emotions, forming healthy relationships, and building self-esteem.*Insights that will empower you in understanding how to nurture the boy in your life and set him up for success.Join Us!Whether you're raising a toddler, a teen, or anywhere in between, this season is all about celebrating and supporting boys—and the parents who guide them. Tune in for heart-centered conversations, expert advice, and practical tools to unlock the parenting code for boys.Share your parenting story with us here. Visit SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more and subscribe!About Sonhood CoachingSonhood Coaching focuses on the emotional well-being of boys, helping parents nurture their sons to become remarkable men. Through courses, coaching, and resources, we empower families to better understand and support the inner emotional world of boys. Explore SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more about our programs and services.Looking to transform your relationship with your son? Visit SonhoodCoaching.com for valuable resources and expert support.

In this episode of Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys, Kathy sits down with Kristina and Herbert Heagh-Avritt — long-time partners in life and parenting — to explore what it really means to raise boys through love, trauma, distance, and healing. From navigating the challenges of raising a son on the autism spectrum to experiencing the heartbreak of estrangement from their other son, Kristina and Herb open up with honesty, wisdom, and vulnerability. Together, they share what they’ve learned about communication, parenting, healthy masculinity, and why it is so important to reflect on the past in order to move forward.Guest BioKristina & Herbert Heagh-Avritt have been together for over 33 years — partners in marriage, parenting, and now in their mission to help families thrive. Kristina spent 27 years in education, while Herbert followed a path in business and entrepreneurship. Together, they’ve raised two sons and faced both the everyday and extraordinary challenges of parenting. Today, they co-founded Vibrant Family Education and host the Bringing Education Home podcast, where they offer tools, support, and heart-centered strategies to help parents raise happy, healthy, and successful children. Their work empowers families to reconnect, communicate, and reimagine education at home for stronger relationships and communities.Key Topics *The evolution of their 33+ year journey as parents and partners*Raising a son on the autism spectrum and learning to adapt to his needs*The deep ache of estrangement from a child  the self-reflection it brings*How unspoken expectations and poor communication can unravel even the closest families*The impact of Herbert’s traumatic brain injury on their marriage, parenting, and business*Why boys today need more movement, freedom, and validation in how they learn and grow*The collapse of all-male spaces and the consequences for boys’ development and identity*The importance of rites of passage, male mentorship, and emotionally safe environments for boys*What Kristina and Herbert would do differently if they could start their parenting journey again*Encouragement for parents to keep going — to trust themselves, and to never give up on connectionLinks 📘 Kathy’s book: Raising Boys Who Become Remarkable Men Vibrant Family Education Sitevibrantfamilyeducation.comBringing Education Home Podbringingeducationhome.comFacebookfacebook.com/kristina.heaghavrittInstagraminstagram.com/kristinaheaghavrittLinkedinlinkedin.com/in/kristina-heagh-avrittUnlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysWelcome to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysThis season, we’re diving deep into the world of boys—exploring what it takes to raise them to become remarkable young men. Hosted by Kathy Imabayashi, an experienced educator and passionate advocate for boys’ emotional well-being, this podcast offers real-life stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers navigating the unique challenges of raising boys.What to ExpectIn Season 2, we’re focusing on boys' emotional worlds—understanding their behavior, building stronger connections, and helping them grow into confident, resilient individuals. Through heartfelt conversations and shared experiences, we’ll uncover the struggles, joys, and breakthroughs of parenting boys.Each episode offers:*Stories from parents, teachers, and caregivers that shed light on the complexities of raising boys.*Strategies to support boys in managing emotions, forming healthy relationships, and building self-esteem.*Insights that will empower you in understanding how to nurture the boy in your life and set him up for success.Join Us!Whether you're raising a toddler, a teen, or anywhere in between, this season is all about celebrating and supporting boys—and the parents who guide them. Tune in for heart-centered conversations, expert advice, and practical tools to unlock the parenting code for boys.Share your parenting story with us here. Visit SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more and subscribe!About Sonhood CoachingSonhood Coaching focuses on the emotional well-being of boys, helping parents nurture their sons to become remarkable men. Through courses, coaching, and resources, we empower families to better understand and support the inner emotional world of boys. Explore SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more about our programs and services.Looking to transform your relationship with your son? Visit SonhoodCoaching.com for valuable resources and expert support.

In this episode of Unlocking the Parenting Code: ALL ABOUT BOYS! we welcome Myanah Simmons, a single mother of two boys, for a rich and real conversation about parenting boys across two very different life stages. Myanah shares her journey of raising an 18-year-old and a 10-year-old, discussing everything from emotional awareness and life skills to societal pressures and the challenges of raising boys in today’s world. She opens up about parenting through curiosity, building emotional resilience, and challenging outdated norms around masculinity—all while navigating single motherhood with strength and grace.Guest BioMyanah Simmons is a passionate advocate for personal growth, emotional connection, and resilience. With a professional background in project management, mental health counseling, and service as a former Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion board member, Myanah brings a unique and thoughtful perspective to parenting. As a single mother to two sons—ages 18 and 10—she integrates her values of honesty, openness, and acceptance into every aspect of her parenting approach.Key TopicsEmotional needs of boys at different developmental stagesParenting boys as a single motherHow to cultivate emotional intelligence and self-expression in boysBalancing guidance and independence as boys growSeeking out male role models and mentorsConversations about life skills, budgeting, and adult readinessNavigating fears of raising a son in today's societyChallenging cultural norms around masculinityCreating a safe space for vulnerability and self-expressionParenting while dating and modeling healthy relationshipsLinkswww.augustinecounselingservice.com https://www.instagram.com/augustine_counselingsvchttps://www.facebook.com/augustinecounselingserviceSubscribe & ShareDon’t forget to subscribe to Unlocking the Parenting Code wherever you listen to podcasts. If this episode inspired or helped you, share it with a fellow parent who might need to hear it.Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysWelcome to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysThis season, we’re diving deep into the world of boys—exploring what it takes to raise them to become remarkable young men. Hosted by Kathy Imabayashi, an experienced educator and passionate advocate for boys’ emotional well-being, this podcast offers real-life stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers navigating the unique challenges of raising boys.What to ExpectIn Season 2, we’re focusing on boys' emotional worlds—understanding their behavior, building stronger connections, and helping them grow into confident, resilient individuals. Through heartfelt conversations and shared experiences, we’ll uncover the struggles, joys, and breakthroughs of parenting boys.Each episode offers:*Stories from parents, teachers, and caregivers that shed light on the complexities of raising boys.*Strategies to support boys in managing emotions, forming healthy relationships, and building self-esteem.*Insights that will empower you in understanding how to nurture the boy in your life and set him up for success.Join Us!Whether you're raising a toddler, a teen, or anywhere in between, this season is all about celebrating and supporting boys—and the parents who guide them. Tune in for heart-centered conversations, expert advice, and practical tools to unlock the parenting code for boys.Share your parenting story with us here. Visit SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more and subscribe!About Sonhood CoachingSonhood Coaching focuses on the emotional well-being of boys, helping parents nurture their sons to become remarkable men. Through courses, coaching, and resources, we empower families to better understand and support the inner emotional world of boys. Explore SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more about our programs and services.Looking to transform your relationship with your son? Visit SonhoodCoaching.com for valuable resources and expert support.

In this episode of Unlocking The Parenting Code: ALL ABOUT BOYS, we welcome Aliesha Embleton, stepmom, coach, author, and founder of Sapling Minds. Aliesha shares her journey and insights on parenting boys during middle childhood and beyond, including personal experiences and practical strategies for parents raising emotionally resilient and authentic children. With a focus on proactive parenting and emotional connection, Aliesha offers valuable advice for parents navigating the challenges of helping boys develop healthy masculinity.Key Topics Discussed:The Unique Role of a Stepmom: A discussion on the special place a ‘bonus parent’ can have in a child's life, and Aliesha's perspective on blending into an already existing family dynamic.Middle Childhood Emotional Development: Strategies for supporting boys' emotional growth during the fast-changing middle childhood years and recognizing the evolving needs at different stages.Navigating Emotional Suppression: How early expectations for boys to "toughen up" impact emotional authenticity, and Aliesha's practical ways to create safe spaces for emotional reflection.Lessons Behind 'From Seed to Sapling': The importance of proactive parenting strategies over reactive measures and how building resilience, authenticity, and emotional literacy go hand-in-hand.Real-Life Reflections on Parenting: A glimpse into Aliesha’s own parenting journey — from balancing honesty and growth to embracing the unpolished moments of raising teens.Guest Bio:Aliesha Embleton is a stepmum, child development coach, award-winning and #1 Amazon best-selling author, and speaker with qualifications in Behavioural Science, Psychology, Coaching, and HR. Through her work with families, schools, and communities, she nurtures children’s resilience, authenticity, and entrepreneurial spirit. Her proactive approach, outlined in From Seed to Sapling, empowers parents and educators to address the root causes of mental health challenges – helping children thrive emotionally, socially, and academically before issues arise.Links:Website:  www.saplingminds.com.auLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/alieshaembletonHashtags:#UnlockingTheParentingCode #SonhoodCoaching #StepParenting #MiddleChildhood #ParentingBoys #EmotionalResilience #SaplingMindsUnlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysWelcome to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysThis season, we’re diving deep into the world of boys—exploring what it takes to raise them to become remarkable young men. Hosted by Kathy Imabayashi, an experienced educator and passionate advocate for boys’ emotional well-being, this podcast offers real-life stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers navigating the unique challenges of raising boys.What to ExpectIn Season 2, we’re focusing on boys' emotional worlds—understanding their behavior, building stronger connections, and helping them grow into confident, resilient individuals. Through heartfelt conversations and shared experiences, we’ll uncover the struggles, joys, and breakthroughs of parenting boys.Each episode offers:*Stories from parents, teachers, and caregivers that shed light on the complexities of raising boys.*Strategies to support boys in managing emotions, forming healthy relationships, and building self-esteem.*Insights that will empower you in understanding how to nurture the boy in your life and set him up for success.Join Us!Whether you're raising a toddler, a teen, or anywhere in between, this season is all about celebrating and supporting boys—and the parents who guide them. Tune in for heart-centered conversations, expert advice, and practical tools to unlock the parenting code for boys.Share your parenting story with us here. Visit SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more and subscribe!About Sonhood CoachingSonhood Coaching focuses on the emotional well-being of boys, helping parents nurture their sons to become remarkable men. Through courses, coaching, and resources, we empower families to better understand and support the inner emotional world of boys. Explore SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more about our programs and services.Looking to transform your relationship with your son? Visit SonhoodCoaching.com for valuable resources and expert support.

Welcome back to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys! I’m your host, Kathy, and today we’re diving into the fascinating world of neuroscience, hypnotherapy, and parenting with Claire Noyelle.Claire began her career as a pharmacist but transitioned into solution-focused hypnotherapy nearly a decade ago, blending science and brain-informed strategies to help young people—especially those with neurodivergent diagnoses—build confidence, resilience, and a future they’re excited about.As a single mom of three, including a son with ADHD and autism, Claire brings both personal and professional expertise to understanding how our brains work and how we can harness that knowledge to support our children. In this episode, we discuss the role of hormones in boys' development, how neuroscience can inform parenting, and the biggest misconceptions about boys' emotional and cognitive growth.Claire also shares her journey from pharmacist to hypnotherapist, her experiences raising a neurodivergent child, and the power of mindset in parenting. Guest BioClaire Noyelle is a pharmacist and a solution-focused clinical hypnotherapist based in the UK. She specializes in working with teenagers and young people, often those with neurodivergent diagnoses, helping them build resilience, confidence, and a strong sense of self. With over 30 years of experience in the healthcare field, Claire combines her knowledge of neuroscience and mental health to empower both parents and young people. She is also a lecturer at the prestigious Clifton Practice Hypnotherapy Training (CPHT) and offers training in mental resilience and well-being to various organizations.As a mother of three—two boys and a girl—Claire has firsthand experience navigating the challenges of parenting, particularly raising a son with ADHD and autism. Her work is deeply rooted in understanding how the brain functions and using that knowledge to support individuals in unlocking their full potential. Key Topics & Links Understanding Testosterone & the Male BrainTestosterone acts as a magnifier—intensifying emotions and traits like strength, assertiveness, and risk-taking.The male brain undergoes drastic changes between childhood, adolescence, and adulthood, with executive function developing later than in girls.There’s a widespread lack of understanding about how hormones impact boys' emotional and cognitive development.From Pharmacist to Hypnotherapist: Claire’s JourneyHow Claire’s interest in hypnotherapy began as an add-on to her pharmaceutical career.Why solution-focused hypnotherapy proved to be more effective for many of her clients than traditional medication alone.The key differences between meditation and hypnosis.Raising Boys as a Single MomThe unique challenges of raising three children, including a neurodivergent son.How the education system often fails to accommodate boys’ needs.The impact of teenage sleep cycles and how it affects learning and behavior.Supporting a Neurodivergent ChildClaire’s biggest “aha” moment: Understanding that her son’s brain works differently from hers.How learning about neurodiversity helped her adjust her expectations and parenting approach.The greatest gifts of raising a neurodivergent child—developing empathy, respect, and deeper understanding.The Teenage Brain & Risk-Taking BehaviorWhy teenage boys are more impulsive and driven toward risk-taking.The role of dopamine and testosterone in decision-making and thrill-seeking behaviors.How parents can support boys in making better choices without suppressing their natural tendencies.The Future of Neuroscience & Mental Health for Young PeopleThe importance of researching how hormones affect development.Shifting the narrative about today’s youth—why they’re not lazy or entitled, but full of curiosity and potential.The power of collaboration and learning from young people rather than making assumptions.Claire’s “User Manual” for Raising Happy, Resilient BoysSpend time learning what they love and find shared interests.Allow them to try different things without expecting them to stick with everything.Treat them with love and respect.Final Advice for ParentsIf you’re struggling, don’t be afraid to ask for help.Learn about how your child thinks and feels to better support them.Give yourself grace—parenting isn’t about getting everything right the first time. Mistakes are part of the journey. Links:www.inspiredtochange.biz/[email protected] https://www.facebook.com/hypnotherapymaidstonehttps://www.instagram.com/inspiredtochange_claire/https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-noyelle/Free relaxation audio file https://inspiredtochange.biz/hypnotherapists/maidstone-hypnotherapy/Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysWelcome to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysThis season, we’re diving deep into the world of boys—exploring what it takes to raise them to become remarkable young men. Hosted by Kathy Imabayashi, an experienced educator and passionate advocate for boys’ emotional well-being, this podcast offers real-life stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers navigating the unique challenges of raising boys.What to ExpectIn Season 2, we’re focusing on boys' emotional worlds—understanding their behavior, building stronger connections, and helping them grow into confident, resilient individuals. Through heartfelt conversations and shared experiences, we’ll uncover the struggles, joys, and breakthroughs of parenting boys.Each episode offers:*Stories from parents, teachers, and caregivers that shed light on the complexities of raising boys.*Strategies to support boys in managing emotions, forming healthy relationships, and building self-esteem.*Insights that will empower you in understanding how to nurture the boy in your life and set him up for success.Join Us!Whether you're raising a toddler, a teen, or anywhere in between, this season is all about celebrating and supporting boys—and the parents who guide them. Tune in for heart-centered conversations, expert advice, and practical tools to unlock the parenting code for boys.Share your parenting story with us here. Visit SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more and subscribe!About Sonhood CoachingSonhood Coaching focuses on the emotional well-being of boys, helping parents nurture their sons to become remarkable men. Through courses, coaching, and resources, we empower families to better understand and support the inner emotional world of boys. Explore SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more about our programs and services.Looking to transform your relationship with your son? Visit SonhoodCoaching.com for valuable resources and expert support.

This week on Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys, host Kathy sits down with Jenna Michael. Jenna is a wife, mother of four (ages 3 to 8), author, and parenting coach. She helps parents identify their core values, eliminate excess clutter, and create a framework that prioritizes what truly matters. Jenna provides practical strategies for reducing chaos, making mindful choices, and turning valuable insights into meaningful action. She and her husband, Jonathan, live in North Carolina, where they homeschool their children and enjoy an active, adventure-filled lifestyle.In this episode, we dive into Jenna’s personal journey of parenting, homeschooling, and running a business, all while raising four children—including one young son. She shares powerful insights on simplifying home life, reducing decision fatigue, and raising boys with intention and understanding.Guest Bio:Jenna Michael is a wife, mother, author, and coach specializing in simplified and intentional living for families. Her writing covers topics such as family-friendly activities and events, wellness, travel, gifts, and essential parenting tips. Her coaching helps moms turn these valuable insights into practical action, reduce clutter and chaos, and ultimately pursue a life of purpose on purpose.Key Topics:Jenna’s personal journey into simplified living and how it transformed her home and parenting approach.The challenges of managing a household with four young children while homeschooling and running a business.The importance of defining family values to make intentional decisions about time, space, and finances.Practical decluttering strategies, including why she doesn’t recommend separate playrooms and the benefits of ‘capsule rotations’ for toys and clothing.How decision fatigue affects both parents and children and how minimalism can help.Unique challenges in raising a son compared to daughters, including differences in emotional and physical responses.The role of faith and lifelong learning in preparing children for future challenges.Jenna’s biggest fears as a parent and her hopes for staying connected with her children as they grow.Links & ResourcesFollow Jenna Michael on Instagram: @purposeful__parentingVisit Jenna’s website: www.yourpurposefulparenting.comSubstackJenna's book: Let’s Choose LessUnlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysWelcome to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysThis season, we’re diving deep into the world of boys—exploring what it takes to raise them to become remarkable young men. Hosted by Kathy Imabayashi, an experienced educator and passionate advocate for boys’ emotional well-being, this podcast offers real-life stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers navigating the unique challenges of raising boys.What to ExpectIn Season 2, we’re focusing on boys' emotional worlds—understanding their behavior, building stronger connections, and helping them grow into confident, resilient individuals. Through heartfelt conversations and shared experiences, we’ll uncover the struggles, joys, and breakthroughs of parenting boys.Each episode offers:*Stories from parents, teachers, and caregivers that shed light on the complexities of raising boys.*Strategies to support boys in managing emotions, forming healthy relationships, and building self-esteem.*Insights that will empower you in understanding how to nurture the boy in your life and set him up for success.Join Us!Whether you're raising a toddler, a teen, or anywhere in between, this season is all about celebrating and supporting boys—and the parents who guide them. Tune in for heart-centered conversations, expert advice, and practical tools to unlock the parenting code for boys.Share your parenting story with us here. Visit SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more and subscribe!About Sonhood CoachingSonhood Coaching focuses on the emotional well-being of boys, helping parents nurture their sons to become remarkable men. Through courses, coaching, and resources, we empower families to better understand and support the inner emotional world of boys. Explore SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more about our programs and services.Looking to transform your relationship with your son? Visit SonhoodCoaching.com for valuable resources and expert support.

In this episode of Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys, Kathy sits down with Azja Pryor, a CBWS-trained babywearing educator with six years of experience. Azja shares her unique journey as a mother to two children born 18 years apart and how her parenting approach has evolved over time. With a diverse background that includes roles as a health and fitness coach and a casting director for music videos, Azja has successfully navigated multiple career paths. She opens up about discovering the transformative benefits of babywearing, the shifting expectations around raising boys, the impact of social media on parenting, and practical ways to stay connected with children—especially during the challenging teen years.Guest Bio:Azja Pryor, a CBWS-trained babywearing educator with six years of experience, is passionate about supporting parents in this journey by introducing them to the transformative benefits of babywearing.Through her work with diverse communities, including collaborations with the National Birth Equity Collaborative (NBEC) and an in-person workshop for Alexandria House, that provides refuge for women and children experiencing trauma, Azja has seen firsthand how babywearing can be a powerful tool for mental wellness. The simple act of carrying a baby closely fosters emotional regulation, reduces stress, and promotes bonding, which can ease feelings of anxiety and postpartum depression.Beyond convenience, babywearing empowers caregivers by providing a sense of confidence, connection, and calm during one of life’s most demanding transitions. It allows parents to be present, both physically and emotionally, while also maintaining a sense of self.Azja’s expertise offers invaluable insight into the intersection of mental health and parenthood, making her an ideal voice for self-care and mental wellness to discuss how babywearing can provide emotional relief and resilience for parents and caregivers.Key Topics Covered:Azja’s Parenting Journey:Becoming a mother at a young age and growing alongside her son.Embracing motherhood again 18 years later with a new perspective.Parenting Through Different Eras:Changes in parenting styles and societal expectations over two decades.How social media influences parenting today.The increased pressures children face in the digital era.Babywearing Benefits:How babywearing enhances parental bonding and offers practical benefits, and why it's making a strong comeback in parenting.Navigating Emotional Expression & Connection with Sons:Breaking generational cycles of emotional suppression in boys.Staying connected during the teenage years through open communication and shared interests.Modern Parenting Challenges:The impact of digital media and social pressures on today’s youth, and the evolving landscape of parenting in a digital era. Protecting kids in an AI-driven world and maintaining open communicationEmotional Connection & Communication:Strategies for keeping communication open with teenagers and ensuring that children feel heard and supported emotionally. The importance of being part of your child’s world (village parenting). The role of active listening and why silence can be a warning signLinks & Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/azja-pryor/ https://www.facebook.com/loveazja https://www.instagram.com/loveazja/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCadN8RYhIIokVvKmht3YTKwThis episode is packed with wisdom, personal stories, and valuable parenting insights—tune in and discover how babywearing, trust, and connection can transform your parenting journey!Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysWelcome to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysThis season, we’re diving deep into the world of boys—exploring what it takes to raise them to become remarkable young men. Hosted by Kathy Imabayashi, an experienced educator and passionate advocate for boys’ emotional well-being, this podcast offers real-life stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers navigating the unique challenges of raising boys.What to ExpectIn Season 2, we’re focusing on boys' emotional worlds—understanding their behavior, building stronger connections, and helping them grow into confident, resilient individuals. Through heartfelt conversations and shared experiences, we’ll uncover the struggles, joys, and breakthroughs of parenting boys.Each episode offers:*Stories from parents, teachers, and caregivers that shed light on the complexities of raising boys.*Strategies to support boys in managing emotions, forming healthy relationships, and building self-esteem.*Insights that will empower you in understanding how to nurture the boy in your life and set him up for success.Join Us!Whether you're raising a toddler, a teen, or anywhere in between, this season is all about celebrating and supporting boys—and the parents who guide them. Tune in for heart-centered conversations, expert advice, and practical tools to unlock the parenting code for boys.Share your parenting story with us here. Visit SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more and subscribe!About Sonhood CoachingSonhood Coaching focuses on the emotional well-being of boys, helping parents nurture their sons to become remarkable men. Through courses, coaching, and resources, we empower families to better understand and support the inner emotional world of boys. Explore SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more about our programs and services.Looking to transform your relationship with your son? Visit SonhoodCoaching.com for valuable resources and expert support.

In this episode of Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys, host Kathy sits down with Genevieve Kyle-Lefebvre’, a mom of two energetic boys, the founder and main host of the Mom-Talk Podcast, & co curator of Faces of the Tri-Cities, a book celebrating women and community leaders making meaningful impact. Genevieve is a passionate mother of two young boys, a deep thinker, and a woman of action. She saw the need for a supportive space where mothers could share their experiences, overcome isolation, and build meaningful friendships. What started as a simple lunch gathering in her home has grown into a thriving community of over 600 moms and inspired a podcast. In this episode, Genevieve shares 15 practical strategies and insights on the importance of connection, the risks of overbooking boys, and how to create a balanced, supportive environment for them to thrive.Guest Bio:Genevieve Kyle-Lefebvre is the founder and main host of the Mom-Talk Podcast, a warm and honest space where mothers connect, share, and grow through candid conversations with parenting experts. The podcast was inspired by the mom lunches Genevieve hosted before the pandemic, gatherings that nurtured real connection and support among mothers. A devoted mom of two energetic boys, Genevieve brings authenticity and heart to every episode. She is also a journalist with Tri-Cities Community TV and co-author and co-curator of Faces Tri-Cities, a book celebrating women and community leaders making meaningful impact. Bilingual and culturally rooted, Genevieve has shared parenting insights through her French-language radio segment, continuing to uplift families through meaningful dialogue and connection. Key Topics The hidden dangers of over-scheduling boys in structured activities.How modern busy lifestyles affect boys' emotional well-being.Connection builds trust & emotional safetyCreating space for emotional attachmentOverbooking increases stress & burnoutSigns of over-scheduling in boysDowntime is essential for creativity & problem-solvingBoys need opportunities for self-leadershipPhysical activity vs. overbookingMental health needs space & restBe proactive, not reactiveBoys & self-regulationThe Power of Hugs Links: Website: gklcreative.ca.Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/momtalkpodcast1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parenttalkpodcast/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ParentTalk2UIf you loved this episode, please leave us a review and share it with a friend who needs to hear this message! Looking for more support raising your boy? Visit sonhoodcoaching.com for more.Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysWelcome to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysThis season, we’re diving deep into the world of boys—exploring what it takes to raise them to become remarkable young men. Hosted by Kathy Imabayashi, an experienced educator and passionate advocate for boys’ emotional well-being, this podcast offers real-life stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers navigating the unique challenges of raising boys.What to ExpectIn Season 2, we’re focusing on boys' emotional worlds—understanding their behavior, building stronger connections, and helping them grow into confident, resilient individuals. Through heartfelt conversations and shared experiences, we’ll uncover the struggles, joys, and breakthroughs of parenting boys.Each episode offers:*Stories from parents, teachers, and caregivers that shed light on the complexities of raising boys.*Strategies to support boys in managing emotions, forming healthy relationships, and building self-esteem.*Insights that will empower you in understanding how to nurture the boy in your life and set him up for success.Join Us!Whether you're raising a toddler, a teen, or anywhere in between, this season is all about celebrating and supporting boys—and the parents who guide them. Tune in for heart-centered conversations, expert advice, and practical tools to unlock the parenting code for boys.Share your parenting story with us here. Visit SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more and subscribe!About Sonhood CoachingSonhood Coaching focuses on the emotional well-being of boys, helping parents nurture their sons to become remarkable men. Through courses, coaching, and resources, we empower families to better understand and support the inner emotional world of boys. Explore SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more about our programs and services.Looking to transform your relationship with your son? Visit SonhoodCoaching.com for valuable resources and expert support.

In this episode of Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys, Kathy sits down with Brittinie Tran, a mother of three, nonprofit leader, and podcast host. Brittinie shares her journey of adopting her three children in California, traveling the country in a renovated camper, and finally settling in North Carolina, all while prioritizing family bonds and community support.She also talks about her nonprofit, Hot Mess Express, which helps overwhelmed moms by tackling household tasks, and the importance of normalizing asking for help—especially for boys. This conversation dives deep into the power of community, the role of mothers, navigating adoption discussions, and raising children in a digital world.Key Topics Brittinie’s Journey to Parenthood & Family Life on the RoadMoving from the Midwest to California and adopting all three children as newborns.Realizing the challenges of raising kids without family support and the decision to move to North Carolina.Spending a year traveling in a camper as a family of five, balancing homeschooling with being in the moment.The impact of travel on adaptability and family bonding. Strengthening Family Bonds Through AdventureHow living in close quarters brought their family closer together.The lasting imprint on the children and the hope that they will embark on similar adventures with their own families. The Power of Community & Supporting Other MomsThe importance of having a strong support system.How community and connection impact parenting.The challenges women face in comparing themselves to others and setting high standards.Discussion on the need for similar community spaces for men and dads.The Mission of Hot Mess ExpressHelping overwhelmed moms with everyday tasks like laundry, cleaning, and dishes.Instilling values of volunteerism and community in her children.Brittinie’s daughter starting a kid’s version of Hot Mess Express.Teaching children to offer help, pay attention, and take action.Encouraging Boys to Ask for Help & Express EmotionThe stigma boys face when showing vulnerability.How Brittinie encourages her sons to see asking for help as an act of courage.The difference in emotional expression between her daughter and sons.The importance of parents modeling the behaviors they want to teach. Navigating Conversations About Adoption & BelongingCelebrating their unique family journey in a positive light.Encouraging open and honest discussions about adoption.Belief in fate and destiny bringing their family together. Setting Boundaries with TechnologyBrittinie’s strict stance on limiting internet and social media use for her children.The impact of screens replacing real-life community and connection. Final Thoughts The importance of being vulnerable with your kids.Showing children that parents are real humans navigating challenges too.Emphasizing adventure, presence, and creating meaningful connections.Guest Bio:Brittinie Tran understands the reality of womanhood and motherhood—no pretending, no judgment. Her passion for authentic connection led her to create and host Girl, Same the podcast and serve as President of Hot Mess Express nonprofit.Recognizing Hot Mess Express's potential early on, Brittinie transformed it into a thriving nonprofit and has led it as President for three years. Her dedication to building supportive communities has empowered countless women, making a deeply fulfilling impact.For 18 years, Brittinie moved around the country, seeking her "tribe"—a group of girlfriends to laugh with and share openly. Finally finding that connection inspired Girl, Same, a girls-night-style podcast, filled with real conversation, laughter, advice, and support. Whether expanding your circle or creating new friendships, Brittinie and her guests offer a space where every woman feels seen and heard.Links:Connect with Brittinie TranHot Mess Express Nonprofit: @hotmessexpress.nonprofitGirl, Same Podcast: @girlsamethepodcast Instagram:@brittiniechristineWebsite:@brittinietran.com More from Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysWebsite: @sonhoodcoaching.comRaising Boys Who Become Remarkable Menhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/kathryne-imabayashi/https://www.instagram.com/sonhoodcoaching/https://www.facebook.com/sonhoodcoachinghttps://www.youtube.com/@sonhoodcoachingThank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Share this episode with a fellow parent who could benefit from Brittinie’s insights on family, community, and raising resilient kids!#UnlockingTheParentingCode #HotMessExpress #RaisingBoys #ParentingCommunity#SonhoodCoachingUnlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysWelcome to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysThis season, we’re diving deep into the world of boys—exploring what it takes to raise them to become remarkable young men. Hosted by Kathy Imabayashi, an experienced educator and passionate advocate for boys’ emotional well-being, this podcast offers real-life stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers navigating the unique challenges of raising boys.What to ExpectIn Season 2, we’re focusing on boys' emotional worlds—understanding their behavior, building stronger connections, and helping them grow into confident, resilient individuals. Through heartfelt conversations and shared experiences, we’ll uncover the struggles, joys, and breakthroughs of parenting boys.Each episode offers:*Stories from parents, teachers, and caregivers that shed light on the complexities of raising boys.*Strategies to support boys in managing emotions, forming healthy relationships, and building self-esteem.*Insights that will empower you in understanding how to nurture the boy in your life and set him up for success.Join Us!Whether you're raising a toddler, a teen, or anywhere in between, this season is all about celebrating and supporting boys—and the parents who guide them. Tune in for heart-centered conversations, expert advice, and practical tools to unlock the parenting code for boys.Share your parenting story with us here. Visit SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more and subscribe!About Sonhood CoachingSonhood Coaching focuses on the emotional well-being of boys, helping parents nurture their sons to become remarkable men. Through courses, coaching, and resources, we empower families to better understand and support the inner emotional world of boys. Explore SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more about our programs and services.Looking to transform your relationship with your son? Visit SonhoodCoaching.com for valuable resources and expert support.

In this episode of Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys, host Kathy sits down with Sabrina Trobak,  a registered clinical counsellor, former educator, and author of Not Good Enough: Understanding Your Core Belief and Anxiety. Sabrina shares her expertise on core beliefs, particularly the damaging notion of 'not good enough' that many individuals struggle with from childhood into adulthood. She explains how these beliefs develop, their impact on mental health—especially in men—and how parents can instill confidence and self-worth in their children.Sabrina also discusses her personal parenting transformation when her sons were 9 and 10, societal shifts in men’s emotional well-being, and practical tools to reshape limiting core beliefs.Guest Bio:Sabrina Trobak is a registered clinical counsellor based in Fort St. John, BC, Canada, with a Master’s in Counselling Psychology.  She is the author of Not Good Enough: Understanding Your Core Belief and Anxiety and the founder of Trobak Holistic Counselling. With a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology, she has worked as a teacher, vice principal, and school counsellor before transitioning into private practice.Sabrina specializes in helping individuals recognize, challenge, and transform core beliefs such as ‘not good enough, not important, and not valued’ into affirming and self-empowering perspectives.As a mother of two adult sons, Sabrina transformed her parenting approach when they were 9 and 10, shifting toward fostering self-worth, emotional awareness, and resilience in her boys. She now continues to support them as adults while helping others reshape their self-perception through counselling, public speaking, and mental health advocacy.Beyond her work, Sabrina enjoys pottery, water spin classes, and kayaking in the summer months.Key Topics*Sabrina’s Personal Journey: The turning point when her boys were 9 and 10 and how that experience reshaped her parenting and professional path. How integrating new therapeutic insights into her life allowed her to overcome the "not good enough" core belief.Understanding Core Beliefs: What core beliefs are, why they become so deeply ingrained, and the role of unconscious gender bias and cultural masculinity in their development.The Shift in Men’s Mental Health: Observations on why more men are now reaching out for mental and emotional support. Discussion on how societal pressures and modern conversations around mental health are challenging old stereotypes.Common Themes in Male Clients: An exploration of recurring issues such as anxiety masked as anger, depression, and feelings of being unappreciated, which often underlie the "not good enough" mindset.Societal Expectations & Masculinity: How traditional notions of masculinity impact men’s willingness to express vulnerability and seek help. Whether we’re witnessing a cultural shift that encourages men to be more open about their emotional struggles.Parenting for Self-Worth: Strategies for nurturing the core belief of being "good enough, important, and valued" in boys. The influence of a mother’s role on a boy’s sense of self-worth and emotional security, and insights on breaking generational and societal stereotypes.Success Stories & Transformations: Real-life examples from Sabrina’s counselling practice where challenging negative core beliefs led to profound personal growth.Practical Tools for Self-Help: Exercises and strategies that parents and individuals can adopt to start reshaping limiting core beliefs and promote healthier emotional expression.Links: Website: Trobak Holistic Counselling Facebook: Trobak Holistic Counselling YouTube: @trobakholisticcounselling4407 TikTok: @nge_core_belief Instagram: @nge_trobak LinkedIn: Sabrina TrobakIf you loved this episode, please leave us a review and share it with a friend who needs to hear this message! Looking for more support raising your boy? Visit sonhoodcoaching.com for more.Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysWelcome to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysThis season, we’re diving deep into the world of boys—exploring what it takes to raise them to become remarkable young men. Hosted by Kathy Imabayashi, an experienced educator and passionate advocate for boys’ emotional well-being, this podcast offers real-life stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers navigating the unique challenges of raising boys.What to ExpectIn Season 2, we’re focusing on boys' emotional worlds—understanding their behavior, building stronger connections, and helping them grow into confident, resilient individuals. Through heartfelt conversations and shared experiences, we’ll uncover the struggles, joys, and breakthroughs of parenting boys.Each episode offers:*Stories from parents, teachers, and caregivers that shed light on the complexities of raising boys.*Strategies to support boys in managing emotions, forming healthy relationships, and building self-esteem.*Insights that will empower you in understanding how to nurture the boy in your life and set him up for success.Join Us!Whether you're raising a toddler, a teen, or anywhere in between, this season is all about celebrating and supporting boys—and the parents who guide them. Tune in for heart-centered conversations, expert advice, and practical tools to unlock the parenting code for boys. Share your parenting story with us here. Visit SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more and subscribe!About Sonhood CoachingSonhood Coaching focuses on the emotional well-being of boys, helping parents nurture their sons to become remarkable men. Through courses, coaching, and resources, we empower families to better understand and support the inner emotional world of boys. Explore SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more about our programs and services.Looking to transform your relationship with your son? Visit SonhoodCoaching.com for valuable resources and expert support.

What do Navy SEAL training, an arranged kidnapping, and children’s books about self-worth have in common? Today’s guest, Gina, has one of the most unexpected journeys into understanding resilience, teamwork, and the power of belonging. Growing up, she was constantly trying to “fit in with the boys,” but what she really needed was to belong. She trained with a Navy SEAL, learning firsthand how shifting your focus from yourself to others can transform your mindset. Now, she’s on a mission to help kids build confidence and emotional resilience through storytelling. If you’re raising a child—or just trying to figure out this thing called life—you don’t want to miss this conversation!In this episode of Unlocking the Parenting Code:ALL ABOUT BOYS!, we’re joined by Gina Casazza. In this powerful and eye-opening episode, Gina shares how her unconventional life experiences—including signing up for an arranged kidnapping and later training with a Navy SEAL—helped her understand resilience, confidence, and the true meaning of belonging. Now an author and speaker, she teaches kids self-worth through storytelling, mindset strategies, and creative engagement. Together, we dive into the challenges kids (especially boys) face today and how parents can help their children develop emotional strength, confidence, and a deep sense of belonging.Key Topics:The Battle Between Fitting In vs. Belonging: Growing up as a competitive, determined girl in a male-dominated space.Lessons from Training with a Navy SEAL:  Why Gina originally signed up for an arranged kidnapping (yes, really) and how that led her to Navy SEAL training.The Pressure on Men & Misconceptions About Masculinity: Men in their 20s often face immense pressure as providers and protectors, yet societal shifts have changed traditional roles.Awareness is Everything: Boys are not being taught about their emotions or even their hormones, like testosterone, which play a huge role in behavior and confidence.The Power of Storytelling in Building Confidence & Resilience: Children absorb the world without the filters that adults have—what parents say about them shapes their self-perception.Guest BioGina Casazza is a children’s author, podcast host, and speaker dedicated to helping kids and adults build resilience, confidence, and a sense of belonging. As the creator of the beloved Cosmo the Alien book series, she inspires young readers with stories of self-worth, courage, and transformation. Through her podcast, Mindset Lessons from the Field, she dives deep into mental toughness, personal growth, and the mindset shifts needed to overcome life’s biggest challenges. Drawing from her own journey in a Navy SEAL prep program, she speaks on stage, empowering audiences to embrace discipline, push past fear, and unlock their full potential. Links:Www.ginacasazza.comhttps://www.instagram.com/ginamcasazza/https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-casazza-97b82226/https://www.facebook.com/gna.casazza.1https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/cosmothealien/you-really-truly-are-enough-an-empowering-childrens-book?ref=user_menu&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaYFuRiFcY6idQBX5iNubHtRche2X9P-YihK7LUI7Vgqp7eBX9n3BInu9AY_aem_jhEyW3bcAoAgRlJKnj8brQ#Parenting #RaisingBoys #BuildingBelonging #HealthyMasculinity #NavySEALMindset #UnlockingTheParentingCode #Sonhoodcoaching #YouReallyTrulyDoBelong This episode is packed with jaw-dropping stories and deep insights into what it really takes to build resilience—both in ourselves and in our kids. If you want to raise a confident, emotionally strong child, don’t miss this one. And if you’ve ever wondered how Navy SEAL training and children’s books go together… well, press play and find out!Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysWelcome to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysThis season, we’re diving deep into the world of boys—exploring what it takes to raise them to become remarkable young men. Hosted by Kathy Imabayashi, an experienced educator and passionate advocate for boys’ emotional well-being, this podcast offers real-life stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers navigating the unique challenges of raising boys.What to ExpectIn Season 2, we’re focusing on boys' emotional worlds—understanding their behavior, building stronger connections, and helping them grow into confident, resilient individuals. Through heartfelt conversations and shared experiences, we’ll uncover the struggles, joys, and breakthroughs of parenting boys.Each episode offers:*Stories from parents, teachers, and caregivers that shed light on the complexities of raising boys.*Strategies to support boys in managing emotions, forming healthy relationships, and building self-esteem.*Insights that will empower you in understanding how to nurture the boy in your life and set him up for success.Join Us!Whether you're raising a toddler, a teen, or anywhere in between, this season is all about celebrating and supporting boys—and the parents who guide them. Tune in for heart-centered conversations, expert advice, and practical tools to unlock the parenting code for boys.Share your parenting story with us here. Visit SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more and subscribe!About Sonhood CoachingSonhood Coaching focuses on the emotional well-being of boys, helping parents nurture their sons to become remarkable men. Through courses, coaching, and resources, we empower families to better understand and support the inner emotional world of boys. Explore SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more about our programs and services.Looking to transform your relationship with your son? Visit SonhoodCoaching.com for valuable resources and expert support.

In this episode of Unlocking the Parenting Code: ALL ABOUT BOYS, I’m sharing a recorded webinar I presented to a men’s group this past summer. This session, Fathers & Sons, dives into the unique relationship between fathers and their sons, exploring the emotional world of boys, the evolving definition of masculinity, and the role fathers play in shaping their sons' lives.For nearly 30 years, I’ve studied and worked with boys to understand their inner world, the pressures they face, and the impact of society’s expectations. In this episode, I discuss the crisis many men and boys are facing today, the shifting gender dynamics in education and the workforce, and the harmful narrative of toxic masculinity. I highlight the incredible influence fathers or male mentors can have in fostering emotional security, building strong connections, and guiding boys to develop a healthy sense of masculinity.I also share a personal story about what sparked my journey into this work—the realization that my own son, now 31, would grow up in a world where simply being male could make others perceive him as a threat. This pivotal moment led me to explore the messages we send our boys and how we, as parents, can counteract harmful stereotypes while embracing their true emotional needs.Key Takeaways:The evolving definition of masculinity and how societal changes impact men and boys todayThe concept of ‘The Boy Code’ and how unconscious gender biases shape a boy’s self-perceptionThe importance of a father’s role in creating emotional security and connectionConnection, communication, and discipline.The staggering statistics on men’s mental health and why male suicide rates remain alarmingly highPractical ways fathers can foster deep, meaningful relationships with their sonsIf this episode resonated with you, please share it with other fathers, sons, and men in your life. Let’s continue this conversation and work together to raise boys who feel valued, understood, and emotionally secure. Don’t forget to subscribe to Unlocking the Parenting Code and leave a review—it helps us reach more parents who need these insights.Connect with Me:Website: https://sonhoodcoaching.comUnlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysWelcome to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysThis season, we’re diving deep into the world of boys—exploring what it takes to raise them to become remarkable young men. Hosted by Kathy Imabayashi, an experienced educator and passionate advocate for boys’ emotional well-being, this podcast offers real-life stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers navigating the unique challenges of raising boys.What to ExpectIn Season 2, we’re focusing on boys' emotional worlds—understanding their behavior, building stronger connections, and helping them grow into confident, resilient individuals. Through heartfelt conversations and shared experiences, we’ll uncover the struggles, joys, and breakthroughs of parenting boys.Each episode offers:*Stories from parents, teachers, and caregivers that shed light on the complexities of raising boys.*Strategies to support boys in managing emotions, forming healthy relationships, and building self-esteem.*Insights that will empower you in understanding how to nurture the boy in your life and set him up for success.Join Us!Whether you're raising a toddler, a teen, or anywhere in between, this season is all about celebrating and supporting boys—and the parents who guide them. Tune in for heart-centered conversations, expert advice, and practical tools to unlock the parenting code for boys.Share your parenting story with us here. Visit SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more and subscribe!About Sonhood CoachingSonhood Coaching focuses on the emotional well-being of boys, helping parents nurture their sons to become remarkable men. Through courses, coaching, and resources, we empower families to better understand and support the inner emotional world of boys. Explore SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more about our programs and services.Looking to transform your relationship with your son? Visit SonhoodCoaching.com for valuable resources and expert support.

What’s the one thing that could have the biggest impact on your parenting? What’s the secret to understanding your son’s behavior—especially when he misbehaves? And what’s the one shift that could change everything? In this solo episode, Kathy unlocks the parenting code by exploring how unconscious biases shape the way we see and support boys. If you've ever struggled to connect emotionally with your son or wondered if you're doing enough to guide him, this episode is for you.KEY TOPICS✔ How unconscious biases influence our expectations of boys✔ Why boys may struggle with emotional expression—and how we can help✔ The importance of connecting before correcting✔ How gender shapes parenting approaches and communication styles✔ Small, intentional shifts that create a safe space for boys to be their full, authentic selvesYour Host’s Bio:Kathy Imabayashi is a seasoned educator, parenting coach, educational consultant, and advocate for boys’ emotional well-being. With decades of experience in early education and school leadership, she helps parents understand and support their sons in becoming confident, compassionate, and emotionally strong men. Through Unlocking the Parenting Code, her book - Raising Boys Who Become Remarkable Men, coaching, consulting and online resources, Kathy empowers parents with the tools they need to raise remarkable boys in today’s world.Free resources & more support for parents at: sonhoodcoaching.comShare this episode with a friend raising boys—let’s change the conversation together!#RaisingBoys #ParentingTips #EmotionalIntelligence #BoyhoodMatters #UnlockingTheParentingCode #SonhoodcoachingUntil next time, keep unlocking the parenting code!Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysThis season, we’re diving deep into the world of boys—exploring what it takes to raise them to become remarkable young men. Hosted by Kathy Imabayashi, an experienced educator and passionate advocate for boys’ emotional well-being, this podcast offers real-life stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers navigating the unique challenges of raising boys.What to ExpectIn Season 2, we’re focusing on boys' emotional worlds—understanding their behavior, building stronger connections, and helping them grow into confident, resilient individuals. Through heartfelt conversations and shared experiences, we’ll uncover the struggles, joys, and breakthroughs of parenting boys.Each episode offers:*Stories from parents, teachers, and caregivers that shed light on the complexities of raising boys.*Strategies to support boys in managing emotions, forming healthy relationships, and building self-esteem.*Insights that will empower you in understanding how to nurture the boy in your life and set him up for success.Join Us!Whether you're raising a toddler, a teen, or anywhere in between, this season is all about celebrating and supporting boys—and the parents who guide them. Tune in for heart-centered conversations, expert advice, and practical tools to unlock the parenting code for boys.Share your parenting story with us here. Visit SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more and subscribe!About Sonhood CoachingSonhood Coaching focuses on the emotional well-being of boys, helping parents nurture their sons to become remarkable men. Through courses, coaching, and resources, we empower families to better understand and support the inner emotional world of boys. Explore SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more about our programs and services.Looking to transform your relationship with your son? Visit SonhoodCoaching.com for valuable resources and expert support.

In this episode of Unlocking the Parenting Code:ALL ABOUT BOYS!, we’re joined by Stacey Wallenstein, also known as The Mint Chip Mama. A well-known blogger and parenting advocate, Stacey has been sharing her journey of motherhood for over a decade. From navigating the early days as a first-time mom to raising three kids (15, 11, and 8), she opens up about parenting struggles, wins, and lessons learned along the way.We dive into the power of mom communities, fostering strong sibling relationships, encouraging independence, and the ever-evolving challenge of screen time. Plus, Stacey shares her family’s favorite traditions, why open communication with kids is key, and how parents can stand firm in their values—even when it’s tough.Tune in for a heartwarming and insightful conversation that every parent will relate to!KEY TOPICS:*How The Mint Chip Mama blog started and Stacey’s journey from writer to blogger to parenting advocate.*The importance of mom groups and how early connections impact the parenting experience.*Raising three kids with different personalities—and how gender can shape parenting approaches.*Why fostering independence in kids through responsibilities like making their own lunches builds confidence and resilience.*Navigating parenting challenges when other families have different rules and expectations.*How to have meaningful conversations with your children, especially boys, by using open-ended questions and leaning into their interests.*The impact of screen time on today’s children—and why Stacey believes it’s stealing a key part of childhood.*The role of family traditions, from hiking to Friday night movies, in strengthening family bonds.*How allowing kids to choose their own consequences for misbehavior can be surprisingly effective.*Stacey’s nightly gratitude practice with her kids—and why it’s a powerful mindset shift.Guest Bio:Stacey Wallenstein is the creator of The Mint Chip Mama, a well established parenting blog she launched over ten years ago. She started writing for various publications but wanted to create a space where she could share her experiences as both an individual and a mother. Her first viral piece, How to Raise Siblings as an Only Child, was picked up by Huffington Post and helped propel her into the parenting blog world. Since then, Stacey has written about everything from early motherhood to suburban life, sharing honest and relatable stories along the way. She is also the founder of a parenting center that supports new moms, offering a six-week group experience that fosters lasting connections. When she’s not writing or parenting her three kids, you can find Stacey hiking, playing family games, or enjoying a Friday night movie with her crew.Resources & Links:🔗 Follow Stacey Wallenstein (The Mint Chip Mama) on social media:https://www.instagram.com/themintchipmamahttps://www.facebook.com/TheMintChipMama/https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceygishwallenstein/🔗 Read her blogs at https://themintchipmama.com/#ParentingBoys #TheMintChipMama#MomBlogger #ParentAdvocate #ScreenTimeDebate #UnlockingTheParentingCode #Sonhoodcoaching Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysWelcome to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysThis season, we’re diving deep into the world of boys—exploring what it takes to raise them to become remarkable young men. Hosted by Kathy Imabayashi, an experienced educator and passionate advocate for boys’ emotional well-being, this podcast offers real-life stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers navigating the unique challenges of raising boys.What to ExpectIn Season 2, we’re focusing on boys' emotional worlds—understanding their behavior, building stronger connections, and helping them grow into confident, resilient individuals. Through heartfelt conversations and shared experiences, we’ll uncover the struggles, joys, and breakthroughs of parenting boys.Each episode offers:*Stories from parents, teachers, and caregivers that shed light on the complexities of raising boys.*Strategies to support boys in managing emotions, forming healthy relationships, and building self-esteem.*Insights that will empower you in understanding how to nurture the boy in your life and set him up for success.Join Us!Whether you're raising a toddler, a teen, or anywhere in between, this season is all about celebrating and supporting boys—and the parents who guide them. Tune in for heart-centered conversations, expert advice, and practical tools to unlock the parenting code for boys.Share your parenting story with us here. Visit SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more and subscribe!About Sonhood CoachingSonhood Coaching focuses on the emotional well-being of boys, helping parents nurture their sons to become remarkable men. Through courses, coaching, and resources, we empower families to better understand and support the inner emotional world of boys. Explore SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more about our programs and services.Looking to transform your relationship with your son? Visit SonhoodCoaching.com for valuable resources and expert support.

Welcome back to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys! Today, we have a deeply insightful and personal conversation with Liz Garcia, a devoted wife and mother of four, including adopted twins and two biological children. Liz’s parenting journey has been anything but ordinary—filled with unexpected challenges, cultural differences, and the complexities of raising both biological and adopted children. Through resilience and determination, she has turned her experiences into wisdom that she now shares to support other parents on similar paths.Key Topics:Parenting through adoption & biological birth – How Liz navigated raising her twins, adopted from another culture and language, alongside her biological sonsUnderstanding boys’ behavior – The differences she noticed in her sons and how early trauma shaped their emotions and actions.Breaking misconceptions about parenting boys – How cultural norms, gender expectations, and school environments influenced her children's development.The struggle of “wacky behaviors” – The hidden challenges parents face when their child behaves differently at home versus in public.Advocating for your child – Liz’s journey through 30+ therapists before finding the right support and her advice for parents fighting to be heard.The father’s role & gender bias – How parenting styles and cultural norms shape boys’ self-perception and development.Parenting lessons learned – The power of resilience, persistence, and giving yourself grace.Guest Bio Liz Garcia is the founder of The Simplified Struggle, a parent coaching group, Liz provides support and guidance to foster and adoptive parents everywhere. Through her organization, she offers valuable strategies to help parents be heard and manage wacky behaviors that no one else sees. Her approach emphasizes responding, not reacting, and provides parents with the tools to stop the nonsense, advocate for what their child needs and nurture the family in a non-traditional way. LinksThe Simplified Struggle – https://www.thesimplifiedstruggle.com/ Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/TheSimplifiedStruggleInstagram – https://www.instagram.com/thesimplifiedstruggle/Hashtags#ParentingBoys #AdoptionJourney #TraumaInformedParenting #ParentAdvocate #ResilientParenting #UnlockingTheParentingCode #RaisingGoodHumans #SonhoodcoachingLiz’s story is a powerful reminder that no parenting journey is the same, and trusting your instincts as a parent is essential. If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with other parents who might need this conversation.For more resources on raising boys, visit SonhoodCoaching.com.Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysWelcome to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysThis season, we’re diving deep into the world of boys—exploring what it takes to raise them to become remarkable young men. Hosted by Kathy Imabayashi, an experienced educator and passionate advocate for boys’ emotional well-being, this podcast offers real-life stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers navigating the unique challenges of raising boys.What to ExpectIn Season 2, we’re focusing on boys' emotional worlds—understanding their behavior, building stronger connections, and helping them grow into confident, resilient individuals. Through heartfelt conversations and shared experiences, we’ll uncover the struggles, joys, and breakthroughs of parenting boys.Each episode offers:*Stories from parents, teachers, and caregivers that shed light on the complexities of raising boys.*Strategies to support boys in managing emotions, forming healthy relationships, and building self-esteem.*Insights that will empower you in understanding how to nurture the boy in your life and set him up for success.Join Us!Whether you're raising a toddler, a teen, or anywhere in between, this season is all about celebrating and supporting boys—and the parents who guide them. Tune in for heart-centered conversations, expert advice, and practical tools to unlock the parenting code for boys.Share your parenting story with us here. Visit SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more and subscribe!About Sonhood CoachingSonhood Coaching focuses on the emotional well-being of boys, helping parents nurture their sons to become remarkable men. Through courses, coaching, and resources, we empower families to better understand and support the inner emotional world of boys. Explore SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more about our programs and services.Looking to transform your relationship with your son? Visit SonhoodCoaching.com for valuable resources and expert support.

In this initial solo episode, Kathy dives into the hidden rules of the "Boy Code" and its impact on boys' emotional well-being. Why are boys struggling in school, mental health, and relationships? How do societal norms discourage boys from expressing their emotions, leading to long-term harm?Kathy uncovers the roots of these issues and shares practical strategies to help parents and caregivers support boys in navigating their emotional world. From understanding the "Man Box" to breaking free of harmful stereotypes, this episode equips you with some tools to help your boys thrive.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:What is the "Boy Code," and how does it shape boys’ behavior?The surprising statistics about boys' struggles in education and mental health.How societal expectations harm boys’ ability to form healthy relationships.Practical strategies to nurture emotional expression and resilience in boys.Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Raising Boys Who Become Remarkable MenThe Silent Crisis: Male SuicideRichard ReevesUnlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysWelcome to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About BoysThis season, we’re diving deep into the world of boys—exploring what it takes to raise them to become remarkable young men. Hosted by Kathy Imabayashi, an experienced educator and passionate advocate for boys’ emotional well-being, this podcast offers real-life stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers navigating the unique challenges of raising boys.What to ExpectIn Season 2, we’re focusing on boys' emotional worlds—understanding their behavior, building stronger connections, and helping them grow into confident, resilient individuals. Through heartfelt conversations and shared experiences, we’ll uncover the struggles, joys, and breakthroughs of parenting boys.Each episode offers:*Stories from parents, teachers, and caregivers that shed light on the complexities of raising boys.*Strategies to support boys in managing emotions, forming healthy relationships, and building self-esteem.*Insights that will empower you in understanding how to nurture the boy in your life and set him up for success.Join Us!Whether you're raising a toddler, a teen, or anywhere in between, this season is all about celebrating and supporting boys—and the parents who guide them. Tune in for heart-centered conversations, expert advice, and practical tools to unlock the parenting code for boys.Share your parenting story with us here. Visit SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more and subscribe!About Sonhood CoachingSonhood Coaching focuses on the emotional well-being of boys, helping parents nurture their sons to become remarkable men. Through courses, coaching, and resources, we empower families to better understand and support the inner emotional world of boys. Explore SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more about our programs and services.Looking to transform your relationship with your son? Visit SonhoodCoaching.com for valuable resources and expert support.