Hope & Humor Podcast

Kristina shares a hard-earned lesson from parenting her son through a difficult time: the more she tried to control the situation, the worse things became, not just for him, but for her and their relationship. In this episode, she talks honestly about the difference between helping and controlling, why our attempts to “fix” things can sometimes create more harm, and what she’s learned about letting go of control without letting go of our kids. If you’re a parent who struggles with control, this episode offers practical encouragement.

Kristina sits down with teen coach Carey Reilly to discuss how parents can help their kids discover their passions, find purpose, and use their unique gifts to make a positive impact in their community. Carey shares practical advice for encouraging confidence, curiosity, and meaningful growth in teens. She also offers valuable tips for students who are considering college, including ways to strengthen their applications and stand out in the admissions process. 
Carey is also the founder of badgermethod.com, which helps students build impact, leadership and a personal brand that opens doors.

Death is one of the few experiences every family will face, yet it's often one of the hardest subjects to talk about. In this episode, Kristina welcomes Amy Pickard, founder of Good To Go, for an honest conversation about end-of-life planning, talking to children about death, family communication, and why avoiding these discussions often creates more pain than having them.
At the heart of Amy's work is The Departure File, a practical and compassionate resource designed to eliminate stress, guilt, and uncertainty for those left behind. As Amy says, the goal is to leave behind love instead of logistics.Learn more about Good To Go, order The Departure File, or find information about Good To Go Parties at https://goodtogopeace.org/.

Do you ever feel like you're expected to do it all, be it all, and somehow make it look effortless? In this episode, Kristina and her producer dive into the reality of Superwoman Syndrome. They explore the pressures and societal expectations that women face, how these messages often teach us to put our own needs last, and what it takes to break free from the cycle of self-neglect and create a life that feels more fulfilling and sustainable.

Kristina is joined once again by Jacy Patt, founder of Mentionable Means Manageable Youth Advocacy and a dedicated advocate with more than 15 years of experience working with at-risk youth and their families. Through years of building trust with young people, Jacy has heard firsthand from kids who are struggling but don't feel comfortable opening up to their parents. She shares powerful insights and practical guidance for parents who want to strengthen their connection with their children.
Learn more about Jacy's non-profit organization and its work supporting adolescents and families: mmmya.org