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Middle School Mayhem - Surviving Our Kids' Awkward Years

Middle School Mayhem - Surviving Our Kids' Awkward Years

Written by: Bill Renner
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About this listen

Middle school—where eye-rolls are frequent, moods change faster than Wi-Fi connections, and “What’s for dinner?” is somehow a daily emergency.

If you’re parenting a 7th or 8th grader, you know this stage is equal parts challenging and exciting—for both of you. That’s where Middle School Mayhem comes in.

Each week, Bill Renner—middle school principal, dad, husband, and awkward-years survivor—shares practical tips and real-life insights to help you navigate this wild ride. We’ll talk about academic success, social and emotional growth, friendships, technology, resilience… and yes, those cringe-worthy school dances.


Whether you’re looking for strategies to help your child thrive or you need reassurance that the chaos is normal, this podcast will give you both the how-to and the you-got-this. Expect actionable advice you can use immediately—and a few funny stories to remind you that you’re not alone.


So buckle up, bring your sense of humor, and join us as we survive—and maybe even enjoy—these awkward years… together.


© 2025 Middle School Mayhem - Surviving Our Kids' Awkward Years
Parenting Relationships
Episodes
  • Helping Your Child Set and Achieve Goals
    Dec 19 2025

    This week’s episode is all about helping your middle schooler set goals that actually stick. Principal Bill Renner shares simple, meaningful steps to help students build confidence, develop responsibility, and finish the semester strong.

    💡 In this episode:

    • How to turn vague hopes into clear goals
    • What kids really need to stay motivated
    • How to track progress in a way they’ll actually enjoy
    • The power of celebrating effort over perfection

    💬 “Success isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what matters, on purpose.”


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    7 mins
  • Understanding and Addressing Academic Challenges and Learning Differences
    Dec 14 2025

    If your child is struggling with schoolwork—or seems increasingly frustrated—this episode is for you. Principal Bill Renner walks families through how to spot the signs of academic challenges, how to respond without blame, and how to partner with your school to get support in place.

    💡 In this episode:

    • What academic challenges really look like
    • 5 key steps to take if your child is falling behind
    • What school supports exist (and how to ask for them)
    • Why your belief in your child makes all the difference

    💬 “Every child has strengths—some just need different ways to access them.”


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    7 mins
  • Supporting Your Child’s Academic Success
    Dec 12 2025

    Want to help your child succeed without constant reminders, battles over homework, or feeling like you’re doing the work for them?

    This week, Principal Bill Renner shares simple, powerful ways to build routines, grow independence, and strengthen your partnership with your child and their teachers.

    📘 You’ll learn:

    • How to turn “checking up” into meaningful check-ins
    • The right rhythm for reviewing grades and assignments
    • When to step back—and when to step in
    • Why praise for effort builds confidence and long-term success

    💬 “You’re not the fixer. You’re the anchor.”


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    6 mins
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