As a parent navigating the complex world of college admissions, you know how overwhelming it can feel. The pressure, the uncertainty, the endless questions about what really matters in an application. But what if you could pull up a chair with an insider who truly gets it?

In this episode of The Prep Table, I sit down with Megan Tyler, interim vice president for enrollment at Wofford College. With her wealth of experience and passion for supporting students, Megan pulls back the curtain on what colleges are really looking for - and it might surprise you.

We dive deep into:

• How to show genuine engagement beyond just checking boxes
• The power of thoughtful questions during campus visits
• Why following up with a handwritten note can make you stand out

• Tips for starting your essay strong and captivating admissions readers
• The importance of focusing on qualities over just skills
• How to weave a cohesive narrative throughout your entire application

• Easy-to-avoid mistakes that could hurt your chances
• Why rushing at the last minute is a recipe for disaster
• The right way to approach your activities list

Plus, Megan shares insider insights on what makes Wofford unique and offers reassurance to anxious applicants: "We're looking for the positives. We are not looking to tear it apart."

Whether you're just starting the college search or putting final touches on applications, this conversation will leave you feeling empowered and inspired. So pour yourself a cup of coffee, take a deep breath, and join us for some real talk about creating bright futures - one meaningful conversation at a time.

• Focus on depth over breadth in extracurriculars
• Use specific details and stories to bring your essays to life
• Start early and give yourself time to review all application details
• Show authentic interest through thoughtful engagement with schools
• Remember that colleges want to advocate for strong applicants

As a parent and business owner, I often find myself pondering the delicate balance between being present for my children and building a thriving business. It's a tightrope walk many of us know all too well. That's why I couldn't wait to sit down with Tori Bolt, the visionary co-founder of Bolt Farm Treehouse, for a heart-to-heart about legacy, motherhood, and entrepreneurship.

Tori's journey from news anchor to creator of award-winning luxury treehouses is nothing short of inspiring. But what truly captivated me was her raw honesty about the challenges of building a business while raising a family. She opened up about:

Embracing the Messy Middle

• How she and her husband Seth turned a failed venture into a million-dollar success story
• The power of betting on yourself, even when it feels terrifying
• Why "work-life balance" might be a myth, and what to strive for instead

Motherhood & Entrepreneurship: A Delicate Dance

• Tori's refreshing take on mom guilt and why working can actually benefit our children
• Practical tips for setting boundaries and being fully present (both at work and at home)
• The importance of giving yourself grace in different seasons of life

Building a Legacy That Matters

• How Bolt Farm Treehouse is cultivating experiences that strengthen relationships
• Why character and impact matter more than business success in the long run
• Tori's personal mantras for pushing through tough times

This conversation left me feeling simultaneously challenged and encouraged. Tori's vulnerability and wisdom remind us that it's possible to build something extraordinary without sacrificing what matters most.

"Anything we want to do, we can do it."

These words from Tori and Seth serve as a powerful reminder of our potential. Whether you're a parent, an entrepreneur, or simply someone chasing a big dream, this episode offers a dose of inspiration and practical advice to help you thrive.

So, pour yourself a cup of coffee (or perhaps that glass of red wine Tori mentioned), and join us for a conversation that might just change the way you approach work, family, and legacy-building.

Follow Tori here: https://www.instagram.com/toribolt/

Mention this podcast when booking at Bolt Farm Treehouse for complimentary access to their stunning Wellness Haven - Use code PREP TABLE at checkout!!

https://www.boltfarmtreehouse.com/

As a parent, sending your daughter off to college can feel like launching her into a whole new world. But what if you could equip her with a vibrant guidebook filled with wisdom, practical advice, and heartfelt encouragement?

In this episode, I sit down with Hilary Afshari, author of "From Dorm to Doorstep," a colorful and soulful book designed to empower young women as they step into independence. Hilary shares her inspiration behind creating this unique resource, which she describes as an "ice cream sundae" of life lessons and practical tips.

• The structure of Hilary's book, from foundational self-discovery to practical adulting skills
• Why personal stories and vulnerability are crucial in connecting with young readers
• How to help young women identify their "personal unicorn" - their true passions and strengths
• Navigating the emotional terrain of that first college break when students return home
• Practical advice for college move-in day and sorority rush

Key takeaways for parents and students:

1. Celebrate achievements and embrace new opportunities in this transition
2. Trust your instincts and be authentically yourself in new environments
3. Cultivate meaningful relationships and seek out mentors
4. Develop practical life skills alongside personal growth
5. Practice daily gratitude to maintain perspective and positivity

Hilary also shares insights from her daily gratitude podcast and offers guidance on how both parents and students can incorporate gratitude practices into their lives.

This episode is a must-listen for families preparing for the college transition. It's filled with warmth, wisdom, and practical tools to help young women thrive as they embark on this exciting new chapter.

Follow Hilary here! https://www.instagram.com/hilary.afshary/

As parents and educators, we often overlook one of the most powerful tools at our disposal: our breath. In this enlightening episode, I sit down with Maria Brito, a life coach and intuitive midwife who brings ancient wisdom to modern women's lives. Maria shares her insights on how breath work can transform both our parenting journey and our children's emotional well-being.

Maria introduces us to the concept of breath work as a "superpower" for both parents and children. She explains how proper breathing techniques can:

• Lower stress levels
• Boost energy and clarity
• Create calm in chaotic moments
• Enhance focus and self-regulation

Practical Breathing Techniques for Families

Learn simple yet effective breathing exercises you can practice with your children, including:

• The "snake hiss" for calming the nervous system
• Box breathing for stress relief
• Belly breathing for proper oxygenation

Modeling Mindfulness for Our Children

Maria emphasizes the importance of parents modeling healthy breathing habits. She offers practical advice on:

• Creating moments of silence in the home
• Teaching children to pause and breathe before reacting
• Incorporating breath work into daily routines

The Power of Self-Regulation

Discover how breath work can help both parents and children develop stronger emotional regulation skills. Maria shares insights on:

• Acknowledging and processing emotions healthily
• Using breath as a tool for conflict resolution
• Building resilience through mindful practices

Nurturing the Parent-Child Connection

Maria discusses how breath work can strengthen the bond between parent and child by:

• Fostering open communication about emotions
• Creating shared moments of calm and connection
• Empowering children with lifelong coping skills

This conversation with Maria Brito offers a fresh perspective on parenting, emphasizing the transformative power of something as simple as our breath. Whether you're a new parent, an experienced educator, or somewhere in between, you'll gain valuable tools to create a more mindful, connected family environment.

Join us at the Prep Table as we explore this essential yet often overlooked aspect of conscious parenting. Let's learn together how to harness the power of breath to cultivate belonging, support, and advocacy in our families and communities.

Follow Maria Here: https://www.instagram.com/awakenwithmariabrito/

Visit her Website Here: https://www.awakenwithmaria.com/

As parents and educators, we're constantly seeking ways to nurture confident, resilient children who feel a strong sense of belonging. But in today's complex world, challenges like bullying can threaten that sense of security and self-worth.

In this enlightening episode of The Prep Table, I sit down with Teodora, a passionate parenting expert from London, to explore the critical issues of bullying awareness, emotional intelligence, and raising confident kids.

Teodora shares invaluable insights on:

• The four main types of bullying to be aware of
• Early warning signs that your child might be experiencing bullying
• How to create a safe space for your child to open up about their experiences

We dive deep into practical strategies for building your child's self-esteem and fostering a strong parent-child bond, including:

• The power of intentional, distraction-free time with your child
• Teodora's "5-3-10 rule" for meaningful connection
• The most impactful question you can ask your child

With technology playing an ever-increasing role in our children's lives, we discuss:

• The potential risks of giving young children unrestricted access to devices
• Alternative approaches to introduce technology responsibly
• How to have open conversations about online safety

"To be in your children's memory tomorrow, you need to be in their lives today." - Teodora

This conversation is packed with actionable advice for parents and educators alike. Whether you're dealing with bullying concerns or simply want to strengthen your relationship with your child, Teodora's expertise offers a roadmap to creating a more supportive, confident, and resilient family dynamic.

• Recognize the early signs of bullying and create a safe space for communication

• Prioritize quality, intentional time with your child to build confidence and connection

• Approach technology and online safety with thoughtful consideration

• Understand the importance of validating your child's feelings and experiences

Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable tools for cultivating belonging, school support, and strong parenting communities. Join us at The Prep Table, where we serve up bright futures one meaningful conversation at a time.

Follow Teodora here! https://www.instagram.com/teodoraparentguide/

Raising emotionally resilient children is a journey filled with both challenges and triumphs. In this heartfelt conversation, I sit down with Dr. Chinwe Williams, author of "Calm, Courageous, and Connected," to explore the vital topic of building emotional resilience in kids, especially those who are neurodivergent.

Dr. Williams, a seasoned therapist and mother of a child on the autism spectrum, shares her professional insights and personal experiences. She offers a compassionate perspective on parenting children whose brains are uniquely wired, emphasizing that these differences are not flaws to be fixed, but rather unique ways of processing the world.

• Understanding how prolonged stress impacts children's brain chemistry
• Practical strategies for managing emotional storms and meltdowns
• The importance of fostering a safe, judgment-free home environment
• Building lasting confidence and grit in children of all neurotypes
• Recognizing signs of anxiety in children and when to seek professional help

Dr. Williams offers a powerful reminder: Your child isn't behind. They're developing at their own pace and will end up exactly where they need to be. She encourages parents to embrace their child's unique journey and advocate for their needs without getting caught up in comparisons or rigid timelines.

This episode is a must-listen for any parent or educator looking to nurture resilience, confidence, and emotional well-being in the children they care for. Join us for a conversation that will leave you feeling inspired, supported, and equipped with practical tools to help your child thrive.

Follow Dr Williams here: https://www.instagram.com/dr.chinwewilliams/?hl=en

As parents, we often wonder how to set our children up for financial success. But what if we could start teaching them valuable money skills before they even graduate high school?

In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Dr. Tywanna Smith, a financial educator and former professional athlete who's revolutionizing how we approach teen financial literacy.

Dr. Smith, affectionately known as Dr. T, brings her wealth of experience from advising pro athletes to the world of teen finance. She shares insights on:

Learn about this innovative platform that's changing the game for 13-18 year olds, teaching them essential business and financial skills. Dr. T explains how the program:

• Creates engaging experiences for teens and parents
• Exposes young people to financial basics before adulthood
• Combines professional skills with financial knowledge

Dr. T emphasizes the importance of education over simply having money. She discusses:

• Why insight and information are crucial for long-term financial success
• How to build good habits in young adults
• The psychology behind money decisions

Get actionable tips that teens can implement right away:

• How to start investing in familiar brands
• The importance of saving, especially for college students
• Finding mentors to guide financial decisions

Dr. T shares personal lessons from her time as a student-athlete, including:

• The importance of philanthropy in financial literacy
• Staying true to yourself amidst pressure and scrutiny
• How understanding your skills and interests can open doors

This conversation is packed with valuable insights for parents, educators, and teens alike. Whether you're raising a financially curious teen or looking to improve your own money management skills, Dr. T's advice will help you build a strong foundation for financial success.

Don't miss this chance to learn from a financial expert who's dedicated to empowering the next generation. Tune in and discover how to set your teen up for a bright financial future!

https://www.tywannasmith.com/

https://www.instagram.com/drtywannasmith/

In today's fast-paced world, raising emotionally resilient children can feel like an uphill battle. With screens, noise, and pressure coming at us from all sides, how can we create a nurturing environment for our little ones to thrive?

Enter Sarah Boyd, child development expert and founder of Resilient Little Hearts. In this enlightening conversation, Sarah shares her wisdom on fostering emotional health and connection in our overstimulated world.

Nurturing Emotional Literacy and Connection

Sarah emphasizes the importance of teaching children to identify and express their feelings from an early age. She offers practical tips for introducing emotional vocabulary to toddlers and maintaining open communication as they grow.

We explore the concept of co-regulation and how parents can provide emotional stability for their children, especially during the turbulent teen years. Sarah also highlights the value of unstructured playtime in strengthening parent-child bonds.

Navigating the Digital Landscape

In our technology-driven era, finding balance can be challenging. Sarah introduces the idea of a "technology Sabbath" - a designated day to unplug and reset our dopamine levels. This practice not only benefits parents but also models healthy tech habits for children.

Understanding Overstimulation vs. Defiance

Ever wonder if your child's meltdown is a tantrum or something more? Sarah breaks down the key differences between defiance and overstimulation, offering insights to help parents respond effectively to their child's needs.

Supporting Neurodivergent Children

For parents of neurodivergent children, Sarah provides compassionate guidance on embracing your child's unique journey and scaffolding their development without comparison or shame.

Here's what you'll gain from this episode:

• Strategies for teaching emotional literacy from toddlerhood through adolescence
  The importance of play in strengthening parent-child connections
  How to implement a "technology Sabbath" for family well-being
  Tips for distinguishing between tantrums and overstimulation
  Insights on supporting neurodivergent children with empathy and understanding

Sarah's approach reminds us that parenting isn't about perfection - it's about presence, connection, and creating a calm environment where our children can flourish.

Follow Sarah Here! https://www.instagram.com/resilientlittlehearts/

Learn more about Resilient Little Hearts here: https://www.resilientlittlehearts.com/about/