As I navigated the highs and lows of parenting, from celebrating my daughter's military acceptance to grappling with teenage tribulations, my own triumph in becoming a registered nurse reminded me that our children are always watching, learning from our perseverance. It's this spirit of setting powerful examples that we carry into today's episode, where we're joined by the Finneys, innovators behind Lyrical Math, who have turned a classroom challenge into a hip-hop education sensation. Their story is not just about enhancing engagement; it's a testament to the transformative power of creative thinking and entrepreneurial drive in the world of learning.

Imagine a math class so compelling that students can't wait to participate, where equations flow to the rhythm of a beat. That's the reality Keziah and James Finney have created—with an initiative so impactful, it caught the attention of mathematics authority Dr. Karen Fuson. Our conversation dives into the magnetic draw of Lyrical Math and how it's reshaping the way families approach education. It's not just about making math fun; it's about crafting a learning experience that resonates on a personal level, building confidence, and fostering family bonds through the universal language of music.

In a time when the true academic level of our children can be clouded by the shadows of standardized testing and grade inflation, Lyrical Math emerges as a beacon for parents striving to reclaim control of their child's educational journey. This episode not only highlights the program's unique ability to reach kids from third to eighth grade but also its surprising utility for students beyond the classroom, even aiding parents in professional exams. We're excited to share how Lyrical Math is revolutionizing home learning, and we invite you to tune in and become part of this educational movement that's empowering families and changing the game.

Parents are the Bows and Children are the Arrows they will land wherever we aim them eventually!

Have you ever felt the weight of the world on your shoulders, trying to be the perfect parent? You're not alone. Join me, Donna Janel, as we strip away the superhero cape and discuss the real, raw, and often untold stories of motherhood. From the crushing pressures of perfection to the liberation of embracing our unique parenting paths, this episode is an honest look at the highs and lows that shape our experiences as mothers.

Motherhood isn't about being infallible; it's about being present, both for our children and ourselves. Today, we confront the pervasive mom guilt and challenge the myth that to be good parents, we must sacrifice our own well-being. By sharing personal narratives and insights on setting boundaries, practicing self-care, and fostering individuality, this discussion is a supportive guide for navigating the complexities of parenting with purpose. We delve into the transformative power of self-reflection and the importance of addressing our behaviors to avoid passing on unhelpful patterns to the next generation.

As Mother's Day approaches, I dedicate this conversation to all the mothers and mother figures in our lives. This episode is a heartfelt tribute and a reminder to prioritize self-care, embrace flexibility, and rejoice in the beautiful mess that is parenting. So, whether you're in the midst of diaper changes, guiding teenagers, or somewhere in between, tune in for an uplifting session that celebrates the journey of motherhood and the strength found in our shared stories.

Parents are the Bows and Children are the Arrows they will land wherever we aim them eventually!

Join me, Donna Janel, as I team up with the insightful Rhonda Santos to peel back the layers on a topic that's both personal and universal – healing from the scars of narcissistic abuse and codependency. Celebrating a pivotal moment in my own journey towards becoming a registered nurse, we draw parallels between the transformation of graduates embarking on new beginnings and our own steps towards fostering growth within our families. We tackle the complex web of emotions that often intertwine within our relationships, discussing how our unhealed wounds from the past can lead us down a path of seeking drama as a stand-in for intimacy, and the impact this has on nurturing our children.

As we chart the course of our conversation, we share stories close to our hearts, revealing the deep-seated roots of codependency that can ensnare those of us in the helping professions. We open up about the magnetic pull towards trying to 'fix' our partners, dissecting how this often masks a need for validation and caretaking. The discussion takes a turn towards self-discovery as we consider the importance of setting boundaries, not just for our own well-being but as a beacon for our children to follow. We're reminded that the journey of healing isn't just for us; it's a legacy we impart to our kids, replacing cycles of hurt with patterns of healthy, self-affirming love.

Our dialogue ventures beyond the personal, considering how the post-pandemic world has reshaped our approach to dating and relationships. We celebrate personal victories, like the nearing end of Rhonda's doctoral program, and the joys of newfound financial independence – all milestones marking the progress on our paths. This episode is a testament to the courage it takes to confront our traumas, to the transformative power of education, and to the resilience that comes with learning to love ourselves fully. Listen as we affirm that each step we take is one towards a future where our children can thrive, unencumbered by the burdens of our past.

Parents are the Bows and Children are the Arrows they will land wherever we aim them eventually!

Have you ever witnessed a teenager's unexpected leap into maturity or grappled with the delicate equilibrium of single parenting? Today, on Parenting with a Purpose, Pam and I, Donna Janel, share heartfelt tales and insights that strike a chord with every caregiver. From the surprising growth of adolescents to the gritty reality of a mother's absence when choosing a cruise over her kids, we unravel the intricacies of showing up—both physically and emotionally—for our little ones.

Pam rejoins us to navigate the arduous odyssey of parenting with a purpose, highlighting the story of a valiant mother's struggle to raise four children alone. Together, we delve into the raw emotions of parenting in isolation—pride, fear, and the oft-overlooked self-care that leads to burnout. Yet, through these challenges, we uncover the power of vulnerability and the courage to seek help. Our conversation is a testament to the incredible fortitude found in asking for assistance and the delicate dance of fostering independence while providing nurture.

Wrapping up our earnest dialogue, we emphasize the transformative role of self-care and its foundational place in effective caregiving. Join us as we explore how intentional parenting and moments of guidance forge a stronger bond between parent and child. We also dissect the significant impact parents have on their children's perception of relationships and emotional health. It's not just about raising children; it's about nurturing the future harbingers of change. Tune in and be part of this enlightening journey.

Parents are the Bows and Children are the Arrows they will land wherever we aim them eventually!

When my 18-year-old stood at the crossroads of adulthood, uncertain whether to enlist in the Marines, it was a stark reminder of the delicate dance of parenting. Through my own confrontation with health challenges, including three strokes, I've learned the hard way that nurturing our children and ourselves is akin to tending a garden, requiring patience and time for the seeds of well-being to flourish. Join me, Donna Janel, as I share these intimate stories and more, offering insights into the art of guiding our children and ourselves toward a life resonant with wellness.

This heart-to-heart extends as I sit down with Dr. Kim Rogers, whose expertise in lifestyle medicine brings a new dimension to the conversation about health beyond the clinical numbers. Dr. Rogers, from Restore MD Medical and Wellness, shares a holistic approach that blends the emotional, spiritual, and social aspects of our lives, advocating for a comprehensive wellness that transcends cultural expectations. Together, we navigate the importance of lifestyle assessments, challenging the norms of continuous productivity, and how rest, sleep, stress levels, and social connections play pivotal roles in our overall health.

Parenting is a marathon, not a sprint, and this episode serves as a reminder of the vitality of self-care and mental well-being in the relentless pursuit of raising children. We tackle the notion of parental self-sacrifice, exploring how prioritizing our own health is integral to the legacy we build for our families. Embrace this journey with us as we seek to balance self-care with the rigors of parenting, and learn to cultivate a life where wellness is not an afterthought, but a cornerstone of our daily existence.

Parents are the Bows and Children are the Arrows they will land wherever we aim them eventually!

Ever find yourself in the midst of a parenting quandary, like that time I scoured the house for a wayward Bluetooth speaker, only to discover it nestled in my teenager's room? These moments, both maddening and mundane, are the threads in the rich tapestry of parenting that we tug at in today's heartfelt dialogue. We weave through the complexities of communication, loss, and the transformative power of responsibility, alongside my special guest, Jean- Pierre Brice, also known as Uncle P. His journey from anger to gratitude, from CMP radio station owner to beacon of community change, underscores our shared narrative of growth and the pursuit of purpose.

Parenting with a Purpose isn't just a catchphrase; it's a living, breathing mission that takes shape in the stories we share. As P open up about the pivotal moments of his past—the loss of his father, his brush with street life, and the dream that propelled him toward starting his own radio station—we discover the sustaining force of support and belief. Uncle P's insights remind us that our experiences aren't just personal milestones, but guideposts for our children's futures, and the importance of breaking negative cycles for their sakes.

Join us as we celebrate the essence of perseverance and the fruits of intentional parenting, from the revelation of watching his son handle money to the influence of a young woman's encouragement. Together, we explore how family, compassion, and the indomitable human spirit can lead us to sacrifice, overcome hardship, and ultimately, build a legacy that echoes through generations. So, tune in, as we share tales of redemption, the relentless pursuit of our dreams, and the indelible marks we leave through the noble art of parenting.

Parents are the Bows and Children are the Arrows they will land wherever we aim them eventually!

Parenting is an odyssey that shapes the destiny of our children, a fact I've come to realize more deeply with each passing day. My experiences have taught me that the guardianship of their dreams, especially in the glitzy but often treacherous entertainment industry, is both a privilege and a profound responsibility. In our heart-to-heart conversation, we navigate the complexities of providing our kids with the moral compass they need to stay grounded amidst the allure of fame. Expect a candid discussion on the paramount role of parents in arming the next generation with values that foster integrity and self-respect.

I reminisce about the delicate dance of upholding principles within the home, a journey marked by the defiance of teenagers and the importance of leading by example. The tales shared of boundary-pushing and rule-setting are reflections of the broader narrative on character building in our children. We peer into the mirror of our actions, as I ponder how our everyday choices become the silent instructions our kids follow, witnessing the impact of our conduct on their development.

To wrap up our session, I share insights into the day-to-day moments that become cornerstones of our children's ethical framework. From a teachable episode at a local Wawa to reinforcing reliability in the face of life's unpredictability, I highlight how these instances evolve into lessons on honesty, respect, and responsibility. As we close, I extend an invitation to join me in embracing the monumental task of parenting, fostering a space within our homes that not only nurtures but also radiates integrity and character, ultimately shaping a brighter future for our society.

Parents are the Bows and Children are the Arrows they will land wherever we aim them eventually!

Ever found yourself locked in a hilarious stand-off with your sixteen-year-old over shower rights? Me too. It's moments like these that remind us of the joys and challenges of parenting, a theme we unwrap along with special guest Stacey Woodson, a registered dietitian and nutritionist, in a heart-to-heart talk on family dynamics and the role of nutrition in our lives. We share a laugh and delve into the serious community issues that touch our everyday lives, with Stacy offering her expert insights on the often overlooked essentials of health.

Parenting isn't just about managing the household chaos; it's also about navigating the complex narratives of food, culture, and mental health. Stacey and I break down common myths about the nutritional value of foods from diverse communities, and we chat candidly about the 'love it or leave it' philosophy, helping you enjoy those holiday treats guilt-free. From the cultural significance of soul food to the power of plant-based nutrition, we tackle how the choices we make at the dinner table can shape our family's health and happiness.

But we don't stop there. We also tackle the practicalities of meal planning for busy families, offering tips and personal anecdotes on how to keep your family nourished without the stress of striving for perfection. And for the parents out there, we explore strategies for respecting your child's food choices while keeping mealtime manageable. It's an episode packed with laughter, empathy, and the shared goal of nurturing informed, healthy communities. So, cozy up and let's chat about making those nutritious choices that allow us all to thrive.

Parents are the Bows and Children are the Arrows they will land wherever we aim them eventually!