• One Mom's Journey of Raising a Transgender Daughter
    Feb 20 2026

    Send us an email @ info@parentcoachesunleashed.com

    Summary
    In this episode of Parent Coaches Unleashed, Carrie Wiesenfeld and Jessica Anger engage in a heartfelt conversation with Paige, a mother of a transgender daughter named Chloe. They explore the journey of recognizing Chloe's gender identity from a young age, the importance of support systems, medical guidance, and the challenges faced in social transition, sports participation, and dating. Paige shares her experiences, insights, and resources for parents navigating similar paths, emphasizing the need for open communication, understanding, and community support.

    Takeaways

    • It's essential to recognize and support a child's gender identity early on.
    • Language around gender identity is evolving, and parents should be open to learning.
    • Building a network of allies is crucial for a transgender child's acceptance.
    • Medical guidance should come from competent professionals familiar with transgender issues.
    • Social transition should be approached methodically and with preparation.
    • Coming out can be a significant event for transgender children and their families.
    • Medical interventions like puberty blockers should be discussed with a knowledgeable team.
    • Participation in sports can present unique challenges for transgender youth.
    • Safety concerns for transgender individuals, especially in dating, are paramount.
    • Community support, such as camps for transgender youth, can be life-changing.

    Resources

    1. www.genderspectrum.org Many downloadable resources

    General, Family, Educational, Faith, Medical and Mental Health, Allyship, Book list. You can also get speakers and speak to professionals

    2. www.thetrevorproject.org

    Non profit LGBTQ plus youth

    They have a suicide hotline and so many resources

    3. Local PFLAG and LGBTQ Centers in your city Just google it Many have support groups, activities, advocacy opportunities, groups for parents and grandparents as well

    4. Psychologytoday.com to find a therapist using the therapist finder. You can enter your location, issues, insurance, preferences and other criteria and it will give you names, specialties, and contact information

    5. For specialists in medical care, go to WPATH Provider Directory, and https://lgbtqhealthcaredirectory.org

    6. https://harborcamps.org

    Books

    1. My Princess Boy by Cheryl Kilodavis

    2. Raising my Rainbow by Lori Duron

    3. The Transgender Child (and Teen ) by Stephanie Brill and Rachel Pepper

    4. Raising The Transgender Child by Michele Angello

    🔗 Connect with Jessica Anger and Carrie Wiesenfeld:
    Instagram | info@parentcoachesunleashed.com
    Soaring Hawk Life Coaching | Ocean Waves Parenting

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    52 Min.
  • Is Being a Parent as Terrifying as Social Media Says?: Carrie and Jessica"s Answer
    Feb 13 2026

    Send us an email @ info@parentcoachesunleashed.com

    Summary
    In this episode of Parent Coaches Unleashed, Carrie Wiesenfeld and Jessica Anger engage in a heartfelt discussion about the fears and realities of parenting, particularly in light of social media's influence. They address a listener's concerns about losing her identity and the overwhelming nature of parenting, emphasizing the importance of support, connection, and the transformative power of motherhood. The conversation explores the balance between work and family life, the beauty of parenting, and the need for understanding and encouragement among parents.

    Takeaways

    • Congratulations on your pregnancy; it's a blessing.
    • Social media can amplify fears about parenting.
    • It's normal to feel like you're losing your identity as a parent.
    • You can maintain connections while being a parent.
    • The first few years of parenting can be grueling but rewarding.
    • It's okay to seek balance between work and family.
    • Parenting is a unique journey for everyone.
    • You have options to create meaningful experiences as a parent.
    • Don't judge other parents; everyone is doing their best.
    • Cherish the love and bond you have with your children.

    🔗 Connect with Jessica Anger and Carrie Wiesenfeld:
    Instagram | info@parentcoachesunleashed.com
    Soaring Hawk Life Coaching | Ocean Waves Parenting

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    26 Min.
  • College, Curves, and Letting Go: A Conversation with Harlan Cohen
    Feb 6 2026

    Send us an email @ info@parentcoachesunleashed.com

    Summary

    In this episode of Parent Coaches Unleashed, hosts Carrie Wiesenfeld and Jessica Anger welcome Harlan Cohen, a New York Times bestselling author and expert on the college experience. The conversation delves into the unique challenges students face as they transition to college, the role of parents in supporting their children, and the importance of resilience in the face of rejection. Harlan shares valuable insights on how parents can guide their children through this pivotal time, emphasizing the need for open communication, understanding, and patience. The discussion also touches on the significance of building relationships with professors, navigating loneliness, and embracing the curvy paths that each student's journey may take. Harlan's practical advice and personal anecdotes provide a roadmap for parents and students alike, making this episode a must-listen for anyone preparing for the college experience.

    Takeaways

    • Harlan Cohen emphasizes the importance of meeting kids where they are in their unique experiences.
    • Parents should focus on guiding their children rather than directing them.
    • Understanding that struggles belong to the child while victories belong to the parent can help maintain a healthy dynamic.
    • The first year of college is often filled with loneliness, and it's crucial to prepare students for this reality.
    • Rejection is a natural part of life, and learning to cope with it is essential for personal growth.
    • Students should approach new experiences with curiosity rather than a need to be accepted.
    • Building relationships with professors can significantly impact a student's success.
    • Parents should allow their children to experience natural consequences to foster independence.
    • The college experience is not just about academics; social and emotional aspects are equally important.
    • Every child's journey is different, and comparisons can be detrimental.

    Contact Harlan Cohen

    Instagram: @harlancohen

    Facebook: @helpmeharlan

    Tik Tok: @helpmeharlan

    Podcast: The Harlan Cohen Podcast

    www.harlancohen.com

    Books:

    The Naked Roommate: And 107 Other Issues You Might Run Into in College

    Win or Learn: The Naked Truth About Turning Every Event into Your Ultimate Success

    The Happiest Kid on Campus

    Getting Naked: Five Steps to Finding the Love of Your Life (While Fully Clothed ans Sober)

    Dad's Expecting Too: Expectant Fathers, Expectant Mothers, New Dads and New Moms Share Advice


    🔗 Connect with Jessica Anger and Carrie Wiesenfeld:
    Instagram | info@parentcoachesunleashed.com
    Soaring Hawk Life Coaching | Ocean Waves Parenting

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    1 Std. und 8 Min.
  • Supporting Your Child Through College Decisions
    Jan 30 2026

    Send us an email @ info@parentcoachesunleashed.com

    Summary
    In this episode of Parent Coaches Unleashed, Jessica Anger and Carrie Wiesenfeld discuss the emotional rollercoaster of college admissions for both students and parents. They explore how to support children through the highs and lows of acceptance and rejection, emphasizing the importance of finding the right college fit based on personal interests rather than prestige. The conversation highlights the need for open communication, understanding, and allowing children to experience their feelings during this pivotal time in their lives.

    Takeaways

    • College admissions can evoke a mix of emotions for families.
    • It's important to let children experience their feelings of rejection.
    • Rejection can be a powerful learning experience.
    • Finding the right college fit is crucial for student success.
    • Parents should guide, not dictate, college decisions.
    • Encourage children to explore their interests and passions.
    • College is a time for personal growth and exploration.
    • Students should consider the social aspects of college life.
    • Rejection is a part of life and can lead to resilience.
    • Parents should avoid comparing their child's journey to others.

    Questions to help guide your child:

    1. What excites you about going to this school?

    2. What are three things you might want to try at this school?

    3. What do you think a regular day might look like at this school?

    4. Let's look at what they offer in terms of support in case you need it.

    5. Do they have your major and something else you might be interested in?


    🔗 Connect with Jessica Anger and Carrie Wiesenfeld:
    Instagram | info@parentcoachesunleashed.com
    Soaring Hawk Life Coaching | Ocean Waves Parenting

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    32 Min.
  • The Impact of Emotions on Parenting: A Dad's Perspective
    Jan 23 2026

    Send us an email @ info@parentcoachesunleashed.com

    Summary

    In this episode of Parent Coaches Unleashed, hosts Carrie Wiesenfeld and Jessica Anger welcome back their husbands, Ken and Lonny, to discuss the impact of parental reactions on children. The conversation is sparked by a scene from the Netflix series 'Runaway,' where a father's disappointment affects his child's willingness to communicate. The hosts explore how facial expressions and body language can convey emotions that children pick up on, often leading to misunderstandings or fear of sharing their own feelings. They emphasize the importance of open communication and the need for parents to be aware of their reactions, as these can have lasting effects on their children's emotional development. Throughout the episode, the group reflects on their own parenting experiences, discussing how reactions to various situations—big or small—can shape a child's perception of safety and trust. They share personal anecdotes, including humorous moments and serious reflections, highlighting the balance between expressing emotions and maintaining a supportive environment for children. The episode concludes with advice for parents on how to navigate their reactions and foster a healthy dialogue with their kids, ultimately reinforcing the idea that communication is key in parenting.

    Takeaways

    • Kids are always paying attention to our reactions.
    • It's important to communicate openly about feelings.
    • Facial expressions can impact children's willingness to share.
    • Parents should reflect on their reactions and how they affect kids.
    • Creating a safe space for dialogue is crucial in parenting.

    🔗 Connect with Jessica Anger and Carrie Wiesenfeld:
    Instagram | info@parentcoachesunleashed.com
    Soaring Hawk Life Coaching | Ocean Waves Parenting

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    39 Min.
  • Navigating Big Moments: Empowering Emerging Adults
    Jan 16 2026

    Send us an email @ info@parentcoachesunleashed.com

    Summary

    In this episode of Parent Coaches Unleashed, hosts Jessica Anger and Carrie Wiesenfeld dive into the challenges of parenting emerging adults, particularly focusing on how to help them navigate significant life moments without taking over. They share personal anecdotes, including a relatable story about dealing with new insurance cards, which triggers a discussion on the balance between guiding children and allowing them to learn through experience. The conversation emphasizes the importance of equipping kids with knowledge and confidence to handle adult responsibilities, while also recognizing the emotional weight these situations can carry for both parents and children. Ultimately, they explore the question of whether it is a parent's responsibility to make big things feel smaller for their kids, advocating for a supportive yet hands-off approach that fosters independence.

    Takeaways

    • It's important to equip kids with knowledge before they face new challenges.
    • Allowing children to experience failure can build their confidence.
    • Parents should assess whether a situation is urgent before intervening.
    • Teaching kids to ask questions can empower them in unfamiliar situations.
    • Using resources like AI can help kids prepare for adult responsibilities.

    Questions to help your kids through new situations:

    At the mechanic:

    1. Can you explain in simple terms what's wrong?

    2. Is this something that needs to be fixed now or can it wait until next time?

    3. How much will this cost?

    4. How long will this take?

    5. Is labor included?

    At the doctor:

    1. What do you think is going on?

    2. What tests will I need and do the labs take my insurance?

    3. Will I need a follow up visit?

    4. Are there side effects from this medication? How long before I know if it's working?

    5. Can you explain that in a different way?

    Insurance

    1. What does my plan cover?

    2. What is my deductible?

    3. Do I have out of network coverage or reimbursement?

    4. Do I need referrals for specialists?



    🔗 Connect with Jessica Anger and Carrie Wiesenfeld:
    Instagram | info@parentcoachesunleashed.com
    Soaring Hawk Life Coaching | Ocean Waves Parenting

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    35 Min.
  • Healthy Boundaries: Setting and Respecting them
    Jan 9 2026

    Send us an email @ info@parentcoachesunleashed.com

    Summary
    In this episode of Parent Coaches Unleashed, Jessica Anger and Carrie Wiesenfeld delve into the topic of boundaries in parenting. They discuss the generational differences in understanding and setting boundaries, the challenges of grandparenting, and the importance of respecting the boundaries of adult children. The conversation emphasizes the need for parents to model healthy boundaries for their children and to prioritize self-care as their kids grow into independence. The hosts also explore how to communicate effectively with college-aged kids and the significance of allowing them to navigate their own journeys.

    Takeaways

    • It's important to respect the boundaries set by adult children.
    • Parents often feel uncomfortable when their children assert boundaries.
    • Modeling healthy boundaries can benefit future generations.
    • Self-care is crucial for parents as their children become independent.
    • Communication with college-aged kids should be respectful of their autonomy.
    • Parents should not overstep when offering help to adult children.
    • Setting boundaries can lead to stronger family relationships.
    • It's never too late for parents to start setting their own boundaries.

    🔗 Connect with Jessica Anger and Carrie Wiesenfeld:
    Instagram | info@parentcoachesunleashed.com
    Soaring Hawk Life Coaching | Ocean Waves Parenting

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    32 Min.
  • Navigating AI in Education for Students, Parents, and Educators
    Jan 2 2026

    Send us an email @ info@parentcoachesunleashed.com

    Summary
    In this episode of Parent Coaches Unleashed, hosts Jessica Anger and Carrie Wiesenfeld discuss the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) in education and parenting with expert Sandy Pesavento. They explore the definitions of AI, its role in classrooms, and the controversies surrounding its use. The conversation emphasizes the importance of digital literacy, responsible AI use, and the need for students to develop research skills. The episode concludes with insights on how parents can guide their children in navigating the digital landscape and using AI effectively.

    Takeaways

    • AI has been a topic of debate for years, similar to calculators.
    • Understanding AI is crucial for both students and educators.
    • AI can enhance lesson planning and teaching efficiency.
    • Students must learn to research and verify information.
    • Digital citizenship is essential in the age of AI.
    • AI can support struggling students with personalized learning.
    • Fact-checking is necessary when using AI-generated content.
    • Parents should engage in discussions about AI with their children.
    • AI should be used as a tool, not a replacement for critical thinking.
    • Embracing AI can lead to smarter use of technology in education.

    Contact Sandy Pesavento @ sapezevento@marywood.edu

    🔗 Connect with Jessica Anger and Carrie Wiesenfeld:
    Instagram | info@parentcoachesunleashed.com
    Soaring Hawk Life Coaching | Ocean Waves Parenting

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    34 Min.