Carrie Conrad, expert in prevention, protection, and defense for women and children, shares her "secret sauce" for raising safe kids in today's challenging world.

• Communication is key, but listening matters more than talking when keeping kids safe
• When children share concerning information, our reaction determines whether they'll continue to be open with us
• Meeting children's need for attention is crucial—if parents aren't listening, someone else will be
• The traditional "stranger danger" approach is misleading and potentially harmful
• Children need to trust their instincts, and parents need to model this behavior
• For reluctant communicators, try stating incorrect information—kids can't resist correcting adults
• Small conversations about seemingly trivial topics build the foundation for discussing serious matters

For free resources including "Mistakes Well-Meaning Moms Make That Put Kids at Risk," visit Carrie's website.

Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!

Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand Out

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Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.

Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!

Communication is a delicate dance requiring awareness of four critical layers: what we mean to say, what we actually say, what others hear, and what they think we mean. Amanda Schenkenberger and Elizabeth Green explore how understanding these layers transforms family dynamics and builds stronger connections.

• The "yellow light" approach: slowing down when tension rises to respond thoughtfully instead of reacting
• Using breathing techniques (longer exhales than inhales) to calm your nervous system in tense moments
• Understanding how different personality types and values affect communication styles
• Adapting your communication to match your child's unique wiring and needs
• Transitioning from "sage on the stage" to "guide on the side" as children grow
• Allowing natural consequences to build responsibility in a safe environment
• Recognizing metacognition (thinking about your thinking) as the foundation of self-awareness

Join Amanda for her free "Calm the Chaos" event in early April, specifically designed for homeschool moms wanting to address internal, routine, and relational chaos.

You can also connect with Amanda on Facebook, Instagram, and her website.

Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!

Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand Out

Like what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families.

Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.

Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!

Navigating a child's addiction can be one of the most challenging paths a parent can walk. This week, we're honored to have parent expert Ann Kaplan with us, who candidly shares her own experiences with her son's addiction and guides us on how to tackle substance abuse within our families.

Ann shares an honest perspective on interpreting signs of substance use in our children's lives, opening the lines of communication and setting boundaries.

And even when diving into such a difficult story, Ann finds ways to add in humor along the way. This episode is packed with practical advice, heartfelt stories, and resources to help families navigate the often-overwhelming world of addiction.

Want to connect with Ann? Find her here and even book a free discovery call.

Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!

Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand Out

Like what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families.

Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.

Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!