Episodes

  • ~149~"From Flames to Calm: Parent Strategies for Crisis" with Katie May

    ~149~"From Flames to Calm: Parent Strategies for Crisis" with Katie May
    Feb 18 2026
    #selfharm, #suicidalbehavior, #highriskbehaviors, #teenemotionalfireTeenagers who feel like they’re “on fire” with overwhelming emotions often turn to self‑harm, substance use, or compulsive scrolling as a quick way to douse the flames. In this powerful conversation, Katie K May shares the science behind fire‑feelers, the pitfalls of well‑meaning but invalidating parental reactions, and concrete steps you can take today to validate your teen without reinforcing destructive behavior.If you’re a parent who:Has noticed marks, cutting, or risky behavior in your teenFeels stuck in “crisis mode” and reacts with panic or angerIs unsure how to talk about self‑harm without “condoning” itWants practical tools for self‑regulation, validation, and rebuilding trust…this episode is your roadmap.Connect with Kaite:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/creativehealingphillyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/creative_healingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiekmayLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiekmayTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@teensupportcenterWebinar: 7 Truths for Stopping TeenSelf-Destructive Behaviorshttps://www.youreonfireitsfine.com/7truthsFree Chapter Download: You’re On Fire, It’s Finehttps://www.youreonfireitsfine.com/chapterConnect with Cheryl!Let’s Chat https://tidycal.com/cherylpankhurst/consultation-chatSleep supportDIRECT LINK TO COACHING WITH CHERYL email : support@cherylpankhurst.com Website cherylpankhurst.comSOCIALS:linkedin.com/in/l. R.cheryl-ann-pankhurst-1b611855https://www.instagram.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst/ https://www.facebook.com/cheryl.a.pankhurstPODCAST- “PARENTING TEENS ADVICE REDEFINED FOR TODAY’S WORLDTHE PODCASThttps://open.spotify.com/show/4QwFMJMDDSEXJb451pCHO9?si=9c1a298387c84e13https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYv9FQy1X43wwoYg0zF8zAJw6-nCpHMAk&si=7p-e4UlU2rsG3j_tOptin-podcast subscriberhttps://www.cherylpankhurst.com/teen-minds-redefined-podcastJoin our Podcast Private Facebook Group!https://www.facebook.com/groups/httpswww.facebook.comgroups1258426648646523What’s it like to work with me!MINI-COURSE
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    38 mins
  • ~148~"Fostering Independence While Honouring Autism" with Sam Mitchell and Mom

    ~148~"Fostering Independence While Honouring Autism" with Sam Mitchell and Mom
    Feb 11 2026

    #AutismParenting #TeenSupport #Neurodiversity #ParentingTeens

    In this raw, honest conversation, Cheryl sits down with Sam Mitchell, and his Mom, to break down the biggest myths parents of autistic teens hold, share practical ways to nurture independence, and explore how to communicate without sounding controlling. Sam talks about his own journey—from a four‑year‑old diagnosis to building a thriving podcast—offering a roadmap for families navigating high school, social media, meltdowns, and the road to college or work.

    Whether you’re wondering how to support rather than “fix,” how to advocate for your teen in school, or simply need a fresh perspective on neurodiversity, this episode is packed with actionable insights you can start using today.

    👉 Ready to transform your parent‑teen relationship? Subscribe, download, and take the next step with Insight to Impact Coaching (link in show notes).
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  • ~147~"Parenting Teens Autism: Real‑World Strategies That Actually Work" Dr Sam Shay DC, IFMCP

    ~147~"Parenting Teens Autism: Real‑World Strategies That Actually Work" Dr Sam Shay DC, IFMCP
    Feb 4 2026

    #NeurodiverseParenting #ASDTeen #ParentingTeens #FunctionalMedicine


    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=auxjQWEGFCQ&list=PLbFucTSBmVzhaqaVIyIhDwRKYeiA2ZlEs&index=12




    www.DrSamShay.com


    


    In this raw, real‑talk episode we sit down with Dr. Sam Shay, DC, IFMCP—functional‑medicine clinician, neurodiversity advocate, and stand‑up comic behind the YouTube‑free comedy special “Neuro Spicy: Love, Life & Comedy on the Spectrum.”


    Dr. Sam shares the hard‑won lessons from growing up with undiagnosed autism, navigating parents who spoke a different neurological language, and how humor became his “edutainment” tool. We dive deep into:


    What life really looks like for a high‑schooler on the autism spectrum (sound‑sensitivity, literalism, “kryptonite” moments).

    Why modeling healthy habits—sleep, diet, stress‑management, and even genetics‑based blueprints—is the fastest way to help your teen thrive.

    The single most powerful emotional cue for neuro‑diverse kids: Caring (and how it differs from “kindness”).

    Practical, low‑budget actions parents can start today to rebuild trust, stop the “hypocrite” trap, and create a family “shared reality.”

    A surprising recommendation: Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu as a sensory‑regulating, confidence‑building activity for teens.

    If you’re a parent of a teen (neuro‑typical or neuro‑diverse) who feels overwhelmed, confused, or stuck, this episode gives you a roadmap to move from surviving to thriving—both for your child and for yourself.





    Connect with Cheryl!


    The Good Divorce Show Episode https://open.spotify.com/episode/2hIILoayZV2oQu5zEzJdcP?si=wl8O0S9YSCCwkUSJQAYcrQ


    Let’s Chat https://tidycal.com/cherylpankhurst/consultation-chat


    Sleep support


    DIRECT LINK TO COACHING WITH CHERYL


    email : support@cherylpankhurst.com


    Website cherylpankhurst.com


    SOCIALS:


    linkedin.com/in/l. R.cheryl-ann-pankhurst-1b611855


    https://www.instagram.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst/ https://www.facebook.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst


    PODCAST- “PARENTING TEENS ADVICE REDEFINED FOR TODAY’S WORLD


    THE PODCAST


    https://open.spotify.com/show/4QwFMJMDDSEXJb451pCHO9?si=9c1a298387c84e13


    https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYv9FQy1X43wwoYg0zF8zAJw6-nCpHMAk&si=7p-e4UlU2rsG3j_t


    Optin-podcast subscriber


    https://www.cherylpankhurst.com/teen-minds-redefined-podcast


    Join our Podcast Private Facebook Group!


    https://www.facebook.com/groups/httpswww.facebook.comgroups1258426648646523


    What’s it like to work with me!


    MINI-COURSE
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    1 hr and 1 min
  • ~147~"Parenting an Autistic High‑Schooler: Real‑World Strategies That Actually Work" Dr Sam Shay DC, IFMCP

    ~147~"Parenting an Autistic High‑Schooler: Real‑World Strategies That Actually Work" Dr Sam Shay DC, IFMCP
    Feb 4 2026
    #NeurodiverseParenting #ASDTeen #ParentingTeens #FunctionalMedicine https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=auxjQWEGFCQ&list=PLbFucTSBmVzhaqaVIyIhDwRKYeiA2ZlEs&index=12www.DrSamShay.com In this raw, real‑talk episode we sit down with Dr. Sam Shay, DC, IFMCP—functional‑medicine clinician, neurodiversity advocate, and stand‑up comic behind the YouTube‑free comedy special “Neuro Spicy: Love, Life & Comedy on the Spectrum.”Dr. Sam shares the hard‑won lessons from growing up with undiagnosed autism, navigating parents who spoke a different neurological language, and how humor became his “edutainment” tool. We dive deep into:What life really looks like for a high‑schooler on the autism spectrum (sound‑sensitivity, literalism, “kryptonite” moments).Why modeling healthy habits—sleep, diet, stress‑management, and even genetics‑based blueprints—is the fastest way to help your teen thrive.The single most powerful emotional cue for neuro‑diverse kids: Caring (and how it differs from “kindness”).Practical, low‑budget actions parents can start today to rebuild trust, stop the “hypocrite” trap, and create a family “shared reality.”A surprising recommendation: Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu as a sensory‑regulating, confidence‑building activity for teens.If you’re a parent of a teen (neuro‑typical or neuro‑diverse) who feels overwhelmed, confused, or stuck, this episode gives you a roadmap to move from surviving to thriving—both for your child and for yourself.Connect with Cheryl!The Good Divorce Show Episode https://open.spotify.com/episode/2hIILoayZV2oQu5zEzJdcP?si=wl8O0S9YSCCwkUSJQAYcrQLet’s Chat https://tidycal.com/cherylpankhurst/consultation-chatSleep supportDIRECT LINK TO COACHING WITH CHERYL email : support@cherylpankhurst.com Website cherylpankhurst.comSOCIALS:linkedin.com/in/l. R.cheryl-ann-pankhurst-1b611855https://www.instagram.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst/ https://www.facebook.com/cheryl.a.pankhurstPODCAST- “PARENTING TEENS ADVICE REDEFINED FOR TODAY’S WORLDTHE PODCASThttps://open.spotify.com/show/4QwFMJMDDSEXJb451pCHO9?si=9c1a298387c84e13https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYv9FQy1X43wwoYg0zF8zAJw6-nCpHMAk&si=7p-e4UlU2rsG3j_tOptin-podcast subscriberhttps://www.cherylpankhurst.com/teen-minds-redefined-podcastJoin our Podcast Private Facebook Group!https://www.facebook.com/groups/httpswww.facebook.comgroups1258426648646523What’s it like to work with me!MINI-COURSE
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  • ~146~Neurodivergent Teen High‑School Transition Guide: Grade 8‑to‑9 IEP Success

    ~146~Neurodivergent Teen High‑School Transition Guide: Grade 8‑to‑9 IEP Success
    Jan 28 2026
    #NeurodivergentTeens#HighSchoolTransition#Grade8To9#IEPSupport#ParentingTeensAre you a parent of a neuro‑divergent teen gearing up for the big leap from Grade 8 to high school? In this power‑packed episode of Parenting Teens: Advice Redefined, host Cheryl Pankhurst walks you through every step of the legally required Grade 8 transition meeting and shows you how to turn it into a confidence‑building, advocacy‑boosting experience for your child.You’ll learn how to:Decode and own the Individual Education Plan (IEP) together with your teen.Choose, test, and fine‑tune accommodations that actually work.Make the transition meeting a collaborative, stigma‑free conversation.Build a proactive communication system with high‑school teachers before the school year starts.Schedule multiple school tours, map out the daily timetable, and identify safe‑spaces and go‑to people.Explore extracurriculars early so your teen can find belonging from day 1.Handle bumps along the way with problem‑solving mind‑sets that keep the whole team in sync.Whether you’re feeling nervous, overwhelmed, or just looking for a clear roadmap, this episode gives you the tools, scripts, and confidence to set your teen up for a successful high‑school journey.👉 Ready for personalized support? Book a no‑pressure, no‑pitch free call with Cheryl (details in the show notes) and discover how Insight to Impact can help you transform stress into empowerment in just 90 days.Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with other parents who need a roadmap to high‑school success!Connect with Cheryl!The Good Divorce Show Episode https://open.spotify.com/episode/2hIILoayZV2oQu5zEzJdcP?si=wl8O0S9YSCCwkUSJQAYcrQLet’s Chat https://tidycal.com/cherylpankhurst/consultation-chatSleep supportDIRECT LINK TO COACHING WITH CHERYL email : support@cherylpankhurst.com Website cherylpankhurst.comSOCIALS:linkedin.com/in/l. R.cheryl-ann-pankhurst-1b611855https://www.instagram.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst/ https://www.facebook.com/cheryl.a.pankhurstPODCAST- “PARENTING TEENS ADVICE REDEFINED FOR TODAY’S WORLDTHE PODCASThttps://open.spotify.com/show/4QwFMJMDDSEXJb451pCHO9?si=9c1a298387c84e13https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYv9FQy1X43wwoYg0zF8zAJw6-nCpHMAk&si=7p-e4UlU2rsG3j_tOptin-podcast subscriberhttps://www.cherylpankhurst.com/teen-minds-redefined-podcastJoin our Podcast Private Facebook Group!https://www.facebook.com/groups/httpswww.facebook.comgroups1258426648646523What’s it like to work with me!MINI-COURSE
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  • ~145~"Confident Parents Raise Confident Teens" with Chantal Dempsey

    ~145~"Confident Parents Raise Confident Teens" with Chantal Dempsey
    Jan 21 2026
    So many parents are quietly asking themselves the same question: “Am I doing this right?”In this powerful episode, I’m joined by Chantal Dempsey to talk about something that rarely gets addressed directly — confidence in you as a parent, and how deeply that confidence shapes your teen.Because here’s the truth: You cannot build confidence in your teen if you don’t trust yourself first.We explore why teen confidence isn’t built through praise, pressure, or “fixing,” but through felt safety, consistency, and a parent who is grounded in their own values. Chantal shares practical insight into how parental self-doubt, people-pleasing, and fear of getting it wrong can unintentionally erode connection — and what to do instead.In this conversation, we discuss:Why so many capable parents feel unsure and second-guess themselvesThe link between parent confidence and teen self-trustHow teens actually develop confidence (and what doesn’t work)What to do when your teen appears insecure, withdrawn, or overly dependent on external validationHow to model confidence without perfection or controlThis episode is especially important if you’re parenting a teen who is struggling with identity, anxiety, or self-esteem — or if you feel like you’ve lost your footing along the way.Teen confidence starts at home. And it starts with you believing in yourself again.🎧 Listen in for a grounded, compassionate conversation that will help you come back to yourself — and show up as the parent your teen truly needs.Chantal Dempsey is an Award-Winning Mindset and Confidence Coach, NLP Expert and Master Hypnotherapist, known for her transformative impact in the field of confidence and personal development. She is passionately dedicated to empowering both men and women to overcome their challenges and unlock their highest levels of confidence.Important Links / How to find Chantalhttps://www.skool.com/getconfident/aboutConnect with Cheryl!The Good Divorce Show Episode https://open.spotify.com/episode/2hIILoayZV2oQu5zEzJdcP?si=wl8O0S9YSCCwkUSJQAYcrQLet’s Chat https://tidycal.com/cherylpankhurst/consultation-chatSleep supportDIRECT LINK TO COACHING WITH CHERYL email : support@cherylpankhurst.com Website cherylpankhurst.comSOCIALS:linkedin.com/in/l. R.cheryl-ann-pankhurst-1b611855https://www.instagram.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst/ https://www.facebook.com/cheryl.a.pankhurstPODCAST- “PARENTING TEENS ADVICE REDEFINED FOR TODAY’S WORLDTHE PODCASThttps://open.spotify.com/show/4QwFMJMDDSEXJb451pCHO9?si=9c1a298387c84e13https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYv9FQy1X43wwoYg0zF8zAJw6-nCpHMAk&si=7p-e4UlU2rsG3j_tOptin-podcast subscriberhttps://www.cherylpankhurst.com/teen-minds-redefined-podcastJoin our Podcast Private Facebook Group!https://www.facebook.com/groups/httpswww.facebook.comgroups1258426648646523What’s it like to work with me!MINI-COURSE
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  • ~144~Parents/Teens "New Semester: New Start"

    ~144~Parents/Teens "New Semester: New Start"
    Jan 14 2026
    #HighSchoolSemester #ParentTeacherConferences #StudentVoice #IEPAccommodations #SpecialEducation #Advocacy The new semester is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect moment to reset, refocus, and give your teen a genuine voice in their education. In this episode Cheryl breaks down:Why “it’s not them, it’s you” matters and how shifting the focus to your own triggers unlocks real change.How to turn the inevitable parent‑teacher meetings from a “he‑said/she‑said” nightmare into a collaborative, “speed‑dating” experience where your teen is 10 % of the conversation.Practical steps to co‑create a partnership with teachers, set up weekly check‑ins, and keep the IEP (or any accommodation plan) front‑and‑center from day 1.The delicate balance between guidance and helicopter parenting—and how to hand the reins back without sacrificing support.Real‑world tools for parents who feel stuck: when a new diagnosis lands on the table, how to find an advocate, decode assessment reports, and move from overwhelm to action.Whether you’re a single parent juggling work, a busy family, or simply looking for a fresh strategy to empower your teen, this episode gives you a step‑by‑step roadmap to start Semester 2 on the right foot—together.Connect with Cheryl!The Good Divorce Show Episode https://open.spotify.com/episode/2hIILoayZV2oQu5zEzJdcP?si=wl8O0S9YSCCwkUSJQAYcrQLet’s Chat https://tidycal.com/cherylpankhurst/consultation-chatSleep supportDIRECT LINK TO COACHING WITH CHERYL email : support@cherylpankhurst.com Website cherylpankhurst.comSOCIALS:linkedin.com/in/l. R.cheryl-ann-pankhurst-1b611855https://www.instagram.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst/ https://www.facebook.com/cheryl.a.pankhurstPODCAST- “PARENTING TEENS ADVICE REDEFINED FOR TODAY’S WORLDTHE PODCASThttps://open.spotify.com/show/4QwFMJMDDSEXJb451pCHO9?si=9c1a298387c84e13https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYv9FQy1X43wwoYg0zF8zAJw6-nCpHMAk&si=7p-e4UlU2rsG3j_tOptin-podcast subscriberhttps://www.cherylpankhurst.com/teen-minds-redefined-podcastJoin our Podcast Private Facebook Group!https://www.facebook.com/groups/httpswww.facebook.comgroups1258426648646523What’s it like to work with me!MINI-COURSE
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  • ~143~“Access Over Grit: Redesigning Learning for Neuro‑Diverse Teens” with Richard Comeau

    ~143~“Access Over Grit: Redesigning Learning for Neuro‑Diverse Teens” with Richard Comeau
    Jan 7 2026
    #NeurodiversityEducation #ADHDLearning #StudentEngagement 1. Introduction & Podcast PurposeParenting Teens Advice Redefined – raw, real‑talk formatGoal: help parents raise “amazing human beings,” not just “kids”Guest introduction: Richard Comeau, founder of Above the Maze2. The Problem with the “Mindset / Grit” NarrativeOver‑emphasis on willpower, grit, and routine fixesHow this approach damages motivation and emotional energyKids internalise “I’m lazy / I can’t learn” instead of seeing systemic issues3. Understanding Diagnoses & AssessmentsLabels vs. lived experience (psychology jargon, psycho‑educational reports)What assessments actually reveal: visual discrimination, information overload, executive‑function gapsImportance of starting with observable behaviours (shutting down, cluttered pages)4. Core Learning Barriers in Traditional EducationVisual clutter & information density – “too much on the page”Lack of guided eye‑movement and clear focal points“Pace dump” lecture slides that leave no meaning‑making traceabilityThe inference burden placed on students to decode professor’s mental model5. Why Common Accommodations Often Miss the Mark17,000‑plus accommodations list – surface fixes, not state changesAccommodations don’t create a feeling of “I can do this”They force students to re‑organise incoherent info without providing context6. Sequential Disengagement & the “Threat vs. Play” SpaceDefinition of Sequential Disengagement – repeated barriers leading to avoidanceThe Threat Space: confusion → shame → “I can’t learn”The Play Space (Magic Circle): safe to fail, immediate feedback, intrinsic motivation7. The Need for Meaningful Context & Sense‑MakingBrain needs active sense‑making in a short time windowProviding real‑world context creates “shelves” for new info in memoryPartial understanding + rapid feedback = stronger retention8. Redesigning a Sample Lecture (Accounting Example)Original slide: dry objectives (“Explain how to account for current liabilities”)Problems: no relevance, heavy jargon, no connective narrativeRevised approach:Break down to the two pillars – debt vs. equityUse a single guiding question for every transaction– Turn abstract concepts into a story/real‑world scenario (hardware store purchase)Outcome: clarity, immediate relevance, actionable mental model9. Teaching Strategies & the “Three Core Questions”What do I need to know / be able to do?How do I know that I know it? (self‑check, evidence of mastery)What is the best way for this information to enter my brain? (mode of delivery)Aligns learning tasks with assessment of understanding, not rote recall10. Leveraging AI as an “Externalizer”AI externalises context that learners can’t generate themselvesGenerates simulations, podcasts, primers tailored to the student’s struggleTurns inaccessible material into play‑space affordances (feedback loops, instant results)11. Game‑Based / Serious‑Game LearningVideo‑game principles: immediate, intrinsic feedback; safe to failSimulated environments (e.g., “accounting office at Riverton Metalworks”)Engages the ADHD/ neurodivergent brain by activating interest & motivation12. The “Engagement Triangle” – Sustaining MotivationWay‑in: a meaningful entry point (clear “why”)Reason‑to‑stay: ongoing relevance, feedback, sense of progressWay‑back‑on‑track: tools/strategies to recover when engagement slips13. Richard's Coaching ProcessFour phases (2–3 sessions each) – rapid, dependency‑freePhase 1: intake, diagnosis of barriers, selection of a single coursePhase 2: building a learning workflow/engine for that coursePhase 3: testing, tweaking, handing over control to the studentPhase 4: scaling the system across other subjects14. Resources & Call‑to‑ActionWebsite: abovethemaze.ca – book an appointment, learn moreShow notes will contain links, contact info, and supplemental material15. Closing Remarks (Host – Cheryl)Introduction to Insight to Impact Coaching & ConsultingEmphasis on parent transformation as the foundation for teen successInvitation to a no‑pressure discovery call (90‑day life‑change promise)Richard Comeau is an educational systems designer and learning strategist who works with teens and university students who are capable but chronically overwhelmed, disengaged, or shut down by school. His work focuses on rebuilding a student’s trust in their own thinking by removing cognitive overload, clarifying what they are actually supposed to be doing, and creating learning environments where understanding becomes possible again. Rather than tutoring content, Richard designs personalized learning systems that help students move from confusion and avoidance to confidence, agency, and sustained engagement.Website: https://abovethemaze.ca Email: richard@abovethemaze.ca https://...
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