Parenting is a journey filled with unknowns, especially when you're supporting a neurodivergent child or a teen navigating gender identity.
In this episode, I sit down with Joanna Whitely, founder of Sounds Like Sunshine Parenting, to talk about how parents can stay grounded, set healthy boundaries, and cultivate trust—without falling into the trap of control or fear.
Joanna shares her personal journey of leaving a high-control religious upbringing, learning to trust herself, and ultimately becoming a coach for parents who feel isolated. She brings powerful insights into the neuroscience of teenage brain development, the importance of connection over correction, and how to handle difficult conversations with family, teachers, and society at large.
If you've ever wondered how to support your child while staying true to your own needs—or how to reconnect with a teen who keeps pulling away—this conversation is for you.
You’ll Hear About:
✨ Why traditional parenting tools don’t work for today’s teens—and what to do instead
✨ The neuroscience behind teen behavior (why they really can’t always "just listen")
✨ How to rebuild trust and connection after your child has been distant or secretive
✨ The role of self-connection in becoming the best parent for your child
✨ How to advocate for your neurodivergent or LGBTQ+ child in family and social settings
✨ The power of non-judgmental spaces for parents navigating these challenges
Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
📌 Work with Joanna Whitely – Visit her website to explore her 1:1 parent coaching, group trainings, and free resources: https://soundslikesunshine.com
📲 Follow Joanna on Instagram – @j.whitely
🎧 Free Resource: All is Calm Morning Guide – Get Joanna’s free guide to reducing morning stress: Sign up here
💬 Join Joanna’s Private Instagram Group Chat – Connect with other parents in a safe, supportive space: DM her on Instagram to join.
Key Timestamps:
🕒 [00:02:10] Meet Joanna Whitely & her journey from sales to parenting coach
🕒 [00:10:45] Why parents of neurodivergent & LGBTQ+ teens often feel isolated
🕒 [00:22:30] Understanding teen brain development & why connection is key
🕒 [00:35:10] Parenting without control: The art of curiosity & trust
🕒 [00:50:45] Navigating family dynamics & advocating for your child
🕒 [01:05:30] Social media & teens: What parents need to know
🕒 [01:20:15] Final thoughts: The power of trusting yourself as a parent
If You Loved This Episode, Please:
💛 Share it with a friend who needs support parenting their neurodivergent or LGBTQ+ teen.
🌟 Leave a review to help more parents find this conversation.
📩 Join my free online coaching series for stress & anxiety relief: Sign up here.
Parenting is never perfect, but it can be connected, loving, and full of growth—for both you and your child. Let’s rewrite the story together.
Listen now! 🎧
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