Plan P

All Episodes (39)

From new to old

From new to old From old to new

1. 

   1. Personal Plans

   Professionals often call us to consult and ask if a particular family falls under the scope of what we do here as coaches.  Generally, the answer is yes, because what we do is help parents make a plan, and often work with them as that plan is implemented. Each family’s plan is completely unique based on what they want.In this episode we just chat about what we do and how that helps parents build a plan of their own to build a strong healthy bond with their child.  As parents of adolescents, we a

   May 08,2024 21:10
2. 

   2. Parental Detachment

   Parenting is a relationship. A relationship which parents do not want to detach from!  Letting a child hit “rock bottom”, “suffer the consequences” or many of the other “tough love” practices (which have been debunked but are very much still out there and are often suggested by friends and family who feel at a loss as to how to help and who often feel the pain themselves).What we suggest in this episode isn’t radical, it just feels logical - to us.First consider, what are you attached to? Your k

   May 01,2024 23:46
3. 

   3. Preparing for the Road

   How to Care, not coddle.In this episode we discuss what is no secret- there is a generation who are struggling, and parents are concerned. It makes total sense that conscious parents and educators who were aware of the significant spike in poor mental health starting to be observed in 2012 and continuing upward wanted to protect their children from pain.  Jonathan Haidt, in his book The Coddling of the American Mind, suggests that what we inadvertently “protected” kids from was having feelings.

   Apr 24,2024 20:59
4. 

   4. Perspectives on Social Media

   Social MediaWe talk with parents A LOT about social media.  How do you navigate this social media world?  How do you navigate your relationship with your children’s relationship with social media?  It’s a lot!Social Media is…..social! We all want to belong and feel significant, at every age, and this is an even more intense yearning during adolescence.  There are so many more places to connect and belong on social media, and understanding what is real can get scary for parents.   How can you be

   Apr 17,2024 26:54
5. 

   5. Radical Candor: Not Pulling Punches

   In this episode we discuss Kim Scott’s book Radical Candor. Her book will not be found in the family section, because it’s a business book, but stay with us here, radical candor is basically being honest. Doesn’t sound radical, but being honest isn’t always easy. Caring is easy, as parents we care.  What Scott talks about is challenging ourselves to get outside our comfort zone or care, and also challenging the individual we love to be honest. Adolescents aren’t stupid, they are also not notorio

   Apr 10,2024 23:42
6. 

   6. Resiliency isn't pushing past pain

   Resilience supportHow good are you at moving on after being disappointed or hurt or making a mistake? Resilience is not always easy. It is learned.  When our children were younger, they built resilience when they were learning to ride a bike and they fell.  Some kids got right back on, some kids cried and wanted to be held while they cried. We met them where they were, trusting that they would learn.   The adolescent years are different, and the same.  Allowing our children to explore their feel

   Apr 03,2024 25:57
7. 

   7. Practice doesn't make Perfect

   Everyone knows that practice makes perfect, right?  Yeahhhh. And, no! What if you could get away from the pressure of that illusion that perfection is possible? How does this notion of perfection impact our beloved preteen, teen and young adult children, because everywhere you  look, they are feeling the pressure. How can we as individuals get away from that terrible weighty notion that we are striving for perfection?Join us as we ponder and discuss what practice IS if it is not about aiming for

   Mar 27,2024 24:16
8. 

   8. Personal Care

   Personal CareTaking care of yourself when parenting preteens, teens and young adults can be challenging.  We talk honestly about how hard it can be to take care of yourself from the very beginning of the parenting journey, and just when you think you might catch a break-and take a bath or read a book, get a mani-pedi or a massage….” just kidding” say the adolescent years.In this episode we talk about not just the importance of self-care, because that can feel like pressure, but we explore all th

   Mar 20,2024 22:20
9. 

   9. Prepare Party Plan Conversations

   Planning Party PlanningThe luck of the Irish? Yeahhh, St. Patrick’s Day, as the parent of a teen? Doesn’t always make parents feel so lucky. The kids are growing up and the wearing of the green is oft accompanied by the drinking of the green beer, the green jello shots and well, goodness knows what else they’ve figured out to dye green besides the Chicago River. Everyone loves this holiday? No, not really. In the episode we want to remind you that luck is what you make of things, and, lucky you,

   Mar 13,2024 36:00
10. 

    10. Paradoxes

    Paradoxes Tap into the wisdom of Socrates, the Tao, Rumi and Erykah among others, as we help parents understand how to accept and apply the paradoxes presented by these wise people to parenting teens!  If we know that we know nothing about anything, then what could we possibly teach our children?Ah, the wisdom of the ages is here to help and we are here to help you understand how to embrace it, and embrace your kids who are squirming away.  Want to understand how knowing this not-knowing can hel

    Mar 06,2024 23:05
11. 

    11. The Power of the Pollyanna Perspective

    The Power of Pollyanna PerspectiveThere is much power to be found in positivity WHEN used properly!  Pollyana can get a bad rap. We understand why.  The ability to genuinely understand how to use, and not abuse or misuse, positivity is complicated. The reason we talk about it in this episode is because it can change interpersonal relationships for the better, which is what parents of adolescents want.In this episode we’ll teach you some tricks on how to stay honest, and how to stay off the negat

    Feb 28,2024 21:42
12. 

    12. Positive Discipline Perspectives

    Understanding how to find balance while transitioning from boss of a child, to staying on as the trusted consultant to a young adult deserves a transition team!  Sarah and Quin have got you!  Parenting adolescents is for many the hardest part of the parenting journey.  Staying positive can feel like a challenge but knowing that you have something positive to practice can make a huge difference.On this week’s episode Quinn and Sarah talk about the huge value of understanding the principles of Pos

    Feb 21,2024 28:43
13. 

    13. Ponder your Part

    Pondering our part is parenting pertinent and also entirely possible.  Accountability is the tune this week on the podcast and is a central tenant of secure parenting. Listen to Sarah and Quinn as they discuss listening and understanding where your part begins and ends. How do you find a place to hear different points of view, which your adolescent children are sure to offer!Learning how to slowly become accountable to ourselves, learning how to model this in our behaviors is how we learn to be

    Feb 14,2024 30:00
14. 

    14. Episode 26 Prioritize Understanding Others

    Parents understand the importance of paying attention to and listening to their children. This is a vital part of any healthy relationship. Listening is hard! In this episode Sarah Pollak and Quinn Faison discuss and dial into how to take listening to the next level. Listening to understand is next-level listening.  One step forward is repeating back exactly what their child said to them. This parroting is a giant step forward from reacting in panic, anger, fear or frustration! Conversations get

    Feb 14,2024 29:29
15. 

    15. The Prison of Perception: Coming Face to Face with Reality

    In this episode, Sarah Pollak and Quinn Faison delve deep into the intricate world of parental perception and its impact on our roles as caregivers. They shine a light on the common tendency to jump to conclusions about our teens' intentions, whether positive or negative, and how this perception can sometimes lead us astray. It becomes evident that our perception can be a confining prison if left unchecked. To break free, the hosts stress the importance of challenging our mindset from a fixed to

    Jan 31,2024 35:48
16. 

    16. Planning & Pivoting: Redefining Our Goals

    What if success was failure and failure was success? In this thought-provoking episode, Sarah Pollak and Quinn Faison delve into the concept of setting and achieving goals, inspired by a compelling Ted Talk by former NFL player Emmanuel Acho. The discussion challenges conventional wisdom surrounding goals, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and adaptation. While goals can provide direction and motivation, they also have the potential to limit us when we become overly fixated on achieving

    Jan 24,2024 33:26
17. 

    17. Pillars of Trust: Presence, Engagement and Reliability

    Happy New Year! In the first episode of 2024, Sarah Pollak and Quinn Faison dive deep into the topic of trust, the cornerstone of strong parent-teen relationships. After a refreshing break over the holidays, they return to explore the dynamics of trust between parents and their teens. Trust is a two-way street, and the hosts discuss how it involves not only trusting our teens to make mistakes and learn but also trusting ourselves as parents. They emphasize that as parents, we set the tone for tr

    Jan 17,2024 35:27
18. 

    18. Putting Care First: 2023 Recap & Reflections (Bonus)

    In this special bonus episode, Sarah Pollak and Quinn Faison bid farewell to 2023 with a heartfelt reflection on the growth and stretching they've experienced throughout the year, marked by new ventures, challenges, and the launch of this very podcast, Plan P! Sarah and Quinn also unveil exciting plans for 2024, offering listeners a sneak peek into what's to come: "Potty Training to Pot Training" eBook Release: A valuable resource for parents navigating the various stages of child development.Fr

    Dec 13,2023 14:47
19. 

    19. Painting a Picture of Trust

     In this final episode of the year, hosts Sarah Pollak and Quinn Faison guide parents through the unique challenges of the holiday season's grand finale: New Year's Eve. While Christmas often leans towards family-focused tranquility, New Year's Eve, particularly with teenage and young adult children, requires a different approach. Sarah and Quinn emphasize the importance of candid conversations with teens and young adults about the significance of a safe New Year's Eve. As children grow older, t

    Dec 06,2023 34:12
20. 

    20. The Present of Your Presence

    In this heartfelt episode of Plan P, hosts Sarah Pollak and Quinn Faison dive into the importance of being truly present, both emotionally and mentally, during the holiday season. Beyond the physical presence, they advocate for intentional mindfulness amidst the hustle and bustle that often engulfs this time of year. As the rush of holiday preparations can overshadow the true meaning of the season, Sarah and Quinn inspire listeners to ground themselves through mindfulness. The episode explores t

    Nov 29,2023 27:10
21. 

    21. Planning Ahead for a Stress-Free Holiday

    In this insightful follow-up to their discussion on holiday pressures, Sarah Pollak and Quinn Faison explore the essential concept of having a family plan in place for a festive, stress-free season. As families evolve and traditions shift with the passing years, it's crucial to engage in open discussions about how you'll spend the holidays. Sarah and Quinn delve into the various considerations: will it be a getaway, a visit to the in-laws, a quiet evening at home, or perhaps allowing the kids to

    Nov 22,2023 36:36
22. 

    22. Pushing Through the Holidays: Check Your Pressure

    In this episode of Plan P, hosts Sarah Pollak and Quinn Faison kick off the holiday season with a candid conversation about pushing through the pressures that often accompany this time of year. While the holidays bring joy for many, they can also weigh heavily on those experiencing loss, such as Quinn, who has navigated the absence of a parent. Sarah and Quinn delve into the societal expectations that can burden individuals during the holiday season—feeling the pressure to be relentlessly joyful

    Nov 15,2023 31:02
23. 

    23. Pressing Pause: The Truth About Wilderness Programs & Boarding Schools

    In this timely episode of Plan P, hosts Sarah Pollak and Quinn Faison delve into a significant and often debated topic: therapeutic wilderness programs and boarding schools for troubled teens. Drawing from their own personal journey, where they made the challenging decision to send their son to a wilderness program over a decade ago, Sarah and Quinn share their insights and experiences. This episode serves as an informative guide for parents, emphasizing that therapeutic wilderness programs and

    Nov 08,2023 36:53
24. 

    24. Passing the Baton: The Transfer of Responsibility

    In this episode of Plan P, hosts Sarah Pollak and Quinn Faison explore the profound shift in parenting dynamics as teens transition into adults. The discussion centers on the crucial difference between being a caregiver and a caretaker. Caretaking, as they emphasize, involves providing care with an expectation of something in return, often tied to control. Caregiving, on the other hand, is the act of providing support, love, and guidance without expecting reciprocity. It's about fostering an env

    Nov 01,2023 39:02
25. 

    25. Preparing for the Fall: How to Avoid Helicopter Parenting

    In this episode of Plan P, Sarah Pollak and Quinn Faison shed light on the delicate balance of parenting: knowing when to step back. While it's natural to want to help our pre-teens, teens, and young adults navigate life, it's equally crucial to resist the urge to be a helicopter parent. The hosts emphasize the importance of allowing children the space to make mistakes and learn from them. By stepping back, parents foster independence, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Unless the si

    Oct 25,2023 31:03
26. 

    26. Pathways to Understanding: The Power of “I” in Emotion

    In this enlightening episode of Plan P, hosts Sarah Pollak and Quinn Faison delve into the intricate world of emotions, exploring the depth and complexity beyond the typical happy-sad-mad spectrum. They emphasize the importance of parents doing the necessary inner work to identify their own feelings and reasons behind them. Recognizing that if expressing emotions is challenging for parents, it naturally becomes difficult for teenagers too.  One key technique discussed is the use of "I" statement

    Oct 18,2023 38:04
27. 

    27. Piercings, Tattoos, and Teens: Conversations Beyond the Needle

    In this episode of Plan P, Sarah Pollak and Quinn Faison tackle the age-old topic of how to talk to your teenager about getting piercings and tattoos.  Let's face it, every generation has its "thing" that shapes their identity, and in 2023, tattoos and piercings are far less taboo than they might have been decades ago. Many parents worry about job prospects and societal judgments, but Sarah and Quinn are here to remind us that these concerns are often generational. Join us as we explore the evol

    Oct 11,2023 17:30
28. 

    28. A Permanent Commitment: Relentless Devotion to Hope and Truth

    Join us for a heartwarming and insightful episode of Plan P as hosts Sarah Pollak and Quinn Faison unveil the deeply personal stories behind their tattoos, each symbolizing profound parenting principles they hold dear. Sarah's tattoo, etched in Spanish, embodies her unwavering commitment to "Relentless Devotion to Hope and Truth." Quinn's ink, a collection of math symbols, encapsulates the powerful sentiment that "Change is Constant." Through candid and touching narratives, Sarah and Quinn invit

    Oct 04,2023 32:13
29. 

    29. Parental Guidance: How Much Freedom is Too Much Freedom?

    Join us for an engaging and thought-provoking episode of Plan P where hosts Sarah Pollak and Quinn Faison dive headfirst into the age-old parenting question: "How much freedom is too much freedom for your teens?" The resounding answer? It depends. In this candid discussion, Sarah and Quinn explore the delicate balance of giving and limiting freedom for adolescents, emphasizing the importance of trust earned over time. This episode delves into the art of loosening the reins and allowing your teen

    Sep 27,2023 34:56
30. 

    30. Parenting without Perseverating (Part 2): ACE Your Worries

    In this highly anticipated follow-up episode of Plan P, Sarah Pollak and Quinn Faison extend their insightful conversation on conquering the persistent worry that can often dominate the parenting journey. Building upon their previous discussion, they delve deeper into strategies for putting an end to worry as a knee-jerk reaction and instead fostering a conscious approach to dealing with anxiety about the unknown. Discover their valuable tips to ACE your worries—Awareness, Communication, and Eng

    Sep 20,2023 37:02
31. 

    31. Parenting without Perseverating: Overcoming Fear of the Unknown

    *Trigger Warning: This episode discusses suicide. Listener discretion advised. We understand that these type of conversations can be emotionally challenging and may evoke a range of feelings for our listeners. If you are personally struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, please reach out to a mental health professional or a crisis hotline. In the United States, you can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or 988*  In this enlightening episode of Plan P, ho

    Sep 13,2023 30:46
32. 

    32. Peeling Back the Layers of Mental Health & Recovery from Drug Abuse

    It's September, which means it's National Recovery Month!! In honor of this month, Sarah Pollak and Quinn Faison are on a mission to break the stigma and get real about the intersection of mental health and substance abuse. Let's face it – life's a rollercoaster, and sometimes, we all need a little help to navigate the ups and downs. That's where the intersection of mental health and recovery comes into play. Many people turn to substances as a way to cope with unaddressed mental health issues.

    Sep 06,2023 29:53
33. 

    33. Pulling the (Heart) Strings: How to Detach with Love

    As your child blossoms into a full-fledged teenager, the art of parenting takes on new dimensions. In this episode, Sarah Pollak and Quinn Faison, delve into the delicate dance of "detaching with love." Navigating the path from active parenting to fostering independence requires finesse, and Sarah and Quinn have the insights you need. Drawing from their personal and professional journeys, they explore the transformative power of trust—trust in your teenager's ability to make decisions and carve

    Sep 07,2023 30:25
34. 

    34. Producing Trust: Let Others Voluntarily Evolve

    Dive into this week's episode of Plan P as hosts Sarah Pollak and Quinn Faison lead the way into a discussion that's all about nurturing trust in your parent-child relationship. In this thought-provoking episode, Sarah and Quinn serve as your expert guides on the journey to foster deep connections and unwavering trust with your child (and yourself!) Join them as they reveal the vital components that lay the groundwork for a trustworthy relationship: openness, reliability, consistency and underst

    Aug 23,2023 21:57
35. 

    35. Parenting with Parameters: Pushing, Pulling & Prodding Boundaries

    Get ready for an eye-opening episode of the Plan P Podcast that dives deep into the art of parenting with boundaries. Join hosts Sarah Pollak & Quinn Faison as they uncover the secrets to establishing effective boundaries for both kids and parents alike. In "Parenting with Parameters," Sarah and Quinn unveil the key to setting boundaries that truly work – clarity, communication and consequences. Learn how to define limits that are not only understood but also embraced by your children. Discover

    Aug 16,2023 33:22
36. 

    36. Prepping the Kids (and Parents) for Back to School

    Hey parents! Ready to tackle the upcoming school year like a pro? Our newest episode on the Plan P Podcast has your back. We're diving into all things "back to school" and sharing some nifty tips to make the transition a breeze for your kiddos (and you, too!). Join us as we explore the art of effective communication and setting clear expectations. Discover how open dialogue can foster understanding and pave the way for a successful academic journey.  As parents, it's crucial to recognize that ou

    Aug 09,2023 37:01
37. 

    37. Potty Training to Pot Training: Managing Transitions From Toddlers to Teenagers

    Join us in this week's captivating episode of Plan P, where Sarah Pollak & Quinn Faison delve into the art of managing transitions from a parent's perspective. From the adorable toddler stage to the tumultuous teenage years and beyond, parenting is a series of transformative experiences for both kids and parents.  In this episode, Sarah and Quinn emphasize that parents undergo significant transitions alongside their children. As kids grow, so do parents, navigating their roles, emotions, and res

    Aug 02,2023 33:07
38. 

    38. Overcoming Parental Peer Pressure

    Welcome back to the Plan P Podcast! In our second episode, "Overcoming Parental Peer Pressure," parenting coaches Sarah Pollak & Quinn Faison tackle a topic often overlooked—the pressure parents face to make the right decisions on their journey of raising their children. Just like teenagers, parents can feel the weight of peers' expectations and judgments, making it challenging to trust their instincts. Sarah and Quinn candidly share their own struggles with seeking approval for their parenting

    Jul 26,2023 26:15
39. 

    39. The Power of Practice

    Welcome to the Plan P Podcast! Join certified parenting coaches Sarah Pollak & Quinn Faison as they delve into the transformative power of PRACTICE in parenting. In this episode, they share their personal story of sending their troubled teenage son to a wilderness therapy program when they felt like they were at the end of their rope. Discover their journey of survival, growth, and the loving relationship they built with their now-adult children. Gain practical insights, actionable practices, an

    Jul 19,2023 38:48