Sh*t Your Teenagers Won’t Tell You

Should Your Teen Focus on One Passion or Explore Multiple Interests? College Admissions Myths Debunked

Many parents wonder if allowing their teens to explore multiple interests in high school might hurt their chances of getting into a top-tier college. In this episode of Sh*t Your Teenagers Won’t Tell You, Cathy and Meredith tackle a listener question about whether their ninth grader should focus on one passion early or continue exploring a diverse range of interests. They break down the myth of the "perfect admissions hook," the harsh reality of ultra-competitive college acceptance rates, and how admissions officers actually evaluate students. They also discuss the risks of forcing specialization too soon, the importance of encouraging genuine intellectual curiosity, and why a well-rounded, thriving teen is more important than a hyper-focused résumé. To hear why pushing too hard can backfire and how to support your teen in a way that truly benefits their growth and future, tune in today!
Key Points From This Episode:
[0:01:05] A parent’s big question: should my teen start specializing now?
[0:02:54] Focusing on thriving, not just college admissions.
[0:04:58] Facing the facts: statistically, elite schools reject almost everyone.
[0:07:06] The sometimes boring truth about the “all-in” specialist kid.
[0:08:24] What really makes a student stand out in applications.
[0:10:48] The risks of forcing a teenager into a narrow path too soon.
[0:12:34] Reasons that some kids rebel when parents push too hard.
[0:15:16] Why college admission is not the only measure of success.
[0:16:20] The illusion of control and the impact of putting too much pressure on teens.
[0:18:59] Playing the long game by preparing your kid for life, not just a school!
[0:21:04] Real talk about how even the best kids don’t always get into top colleges.
[0:23:09] Rethinking what “success” really means and how to support your kid.
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Sh*t Your Teenagers Won’t Tell You
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The Delulu is the Solulu! What to Do When Your Kid Has Wild Expectations

Delulu is the solulu! This viral social media phrase encourages people to stay optimistic and self-confident in the face of challenges and remain grounded even in wackiness. Today, we look closer at the delulu side of things and try to find solutions to the common teen misconception that fame and success are achievable with minimal effort. We discover how the pursuit of instant gratification has made teens more delusional than ever, how inexperience informs delusion, how adults contribute to and even fuel the fantasies of teens, and how nothing great is achievable without hard work and dedication. Then, our hosts share vital advice on how to coach teens toward realizing their goals before debunking the societal pathway to success. We end with the differences between a life’s passion and moments of periodic interest, and we learn how to cultivate commitment and resilience in our teens.  
Key Points From This Episode:
[0:01:40] Delulu is the solulu: Finding ways to be grounded in wackiness.  
[0:05:10] Why teens are more deluded than ever, starting with instant gratification. 
[0:06:48] The way life experience informs delusion and the allure of big tech.  
[0:09:07] How parents, teachers, and other caregivers contribute to teenage delusions. 
[0:11:16] The way teens underestimate the hard work necessary for success.
[0:14:18] Best practices for teaching your kids how to achieve their goals.
[0:15:48] Debunking the societal (educational pathway) fallacy of success. 
[0:17:11] How to help teens distinguish between a life passion and a seasonal interest. 
[0:18:46] Cultivating commitment and resilience.
[0:21:44] Our final thoughts on the role of caregivers in eliminating teen delulu. 
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Sh*t Your Teenagers Won’t Tell You
Sh*t Your Teenagers Won’t Tell You on Instagram

Crafting a College Narrative: Tips for Helping Your Teen Stand Out

Welcome to another episode of Sh*t Your Teenagers Won’t Tell You! Today, we’re breaking down the college narrative. What it is, why it matters, and how to help your teen craft one that stands out. We’ll dive into how a college narrative differs from their school achievements, why it’s crucial to back up their story with real experiences, and how to make sure colleges see them for who they truly are. Plus, we’re sharing plenty of tips to make the process less stressful (for both you and your teen). We unpack the importance of authentically representing themselves to an admissions committee before discussing how to assist kids who are coasting along with no real specific interests or sense of self. Finally, we remind listeners that college admissions aren’t looking for impressive stories but rather, are looking for meaningful experiences in college narratives. Thanks for listening! 
Key Points From This Episode:
[0:01:48] Today we are talking about building a college narrative.
[0:02:35] How to define what a college narrative is.
[0:05:27] The difference between what they do and who they are.
[0:10:05] How you can provide evidence of your kids’ college narrative in their application. 
[0:17:08] The importance of true authenticity and how that appeals to colleges.
[0:18:20] Why parents aren’t objective about their own children.
[0:20:12] How to build a narrative when the child doesn’t really know who they are. 
[0:26:30] Why you shouldn’t try to be impressive in your narrative, but rather, authentic. 
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Sh*t Your Teenagers Won’t Tell You
Sh*t Your Teenagers Won’t Tell You on Instagram

AI in College Admissions: How UNC’s New Screening Protocol is Shaping the Future of Enrollment

AI is embedding itself in all aspects of our lives, and the college admissions process hasn’t been spared! The University of North Carolina (UNC) now uses AI to evaluate the grammar and writing style of essays, which are then used to judge admission to the university, and this move by UNC is a clear indication of why everyone involved in post-secondary education needs to understand AI in college admissions. We discuss UNC’s AI screening protocol, what it looks like from a student’s perspective, how AI compares to tutors, parents, and school guidance counselors, and how to use AI responsibly. Then, explore why AI writing lacks human finesse, what holistic admission looks like in the age of AI, how high school processes may be affected, and how AI could forever alter the college admissions landscape. We end with the enrolment management consequences of AI, how we use AI for this podcast, and what we think the future may hold for colleges that embrace AI. 
Key Points From This Episode:
[0:00:00] Why AI in college admissions is a topic everyone should be discussing right now.
[0:02:00] How UNC uses AI to review college essays and screen applications. 
[0:03:58] Understanding AI from a student’s perspective. 
[0:05:56] Whether it’s better to use humans (parents, tutors, etc.) instead of AI for guidance.
[0:07:37] How to use AI responsibly and why this matters. 
[0:08:35] Why AI writing will always lack human touch. 
[0:09:32] How AI could change the entire college applications landscape.
[0:12:50] Unpacking holistic admission in the age of AI.
[0:13:45] What AI in college admissions means for the high school sector. 
[0:16:19] The enrolment management consequences of AI. 
[0:18:30] How we use AI to help produce this podcast. 
[0:20:05] Our final thoughts and what we think the future may hold. 
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | AI Acceleration 
Timothy Brunold on LinkedIn
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Helping Teens Build Healthy Self-Esteem: Signs, Strategies, and Growth Mindset Tips

As coaches, we often come across self-confidence issues among teens; whether it be deep insecurity or grandiosity. So, today we wanted to discuss self-esteem, when it’s healthy and unhealthy, and signs that your teenager may be struggling with their self-esteem. Tuning in, you’ll learn about the signs of low self-esteem to look out for, when arrogance is masking itself as self-confidence, how kids with high self-esteem present, and so much more! We delve into how parents can help their kids build a good sense of self before discussing the danger of comparison. We even talk about how you can help your teenagers build a growth mindset! Finally, hear about the importance of showing your children unconditional love, even when they mess up. Thanks for listening! 
Key Points From This Episode:
[0:01:08] The topic of today’s episode: self-esteem.
[0:02:05] What healthy self-esteem looks like and signs of low self-esteem.
[0:10:03] How parents can contribute to helping their child build strong self-esteem. 
[0:16:32] The dangers of comparing your experience to your child’s. 
[0:20:54] Helping your kids develop a growth mindset.
[0:25:56] The importance of showing your kids love, even when disappointed in them.
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Sh*t Your Teenagers Won’t Tell You
Sh*t Your Teenagers Won’t Tell You on Instagram

College Visits 101: Essential Tips & Do's/Don'ts for Parents and Teens

Cathy and Meredith are back with another episode of Sh*t Your Teenagers Won’t Tell You, and this time, they’re tackling the wild world of college visits! From planning the trip to squeezing the most out of every campus tour and, most importantly, figuring out what actually matters once you’re there, they’ve got you covered. Tune in to find out why signing up for the official college tour is a must, which parent-approved tours should really be optional add-ons, and what students should do before stepping foot on campus. They’re sharing the ultimate do’s and don’ts of college visits, why it’s crucial to "pop the hood" on every school, and how to take notes that actually help when decision time rolls around. If you’re a parent gearing up for college tour season, this is one episode you don’t want to miss. Start listening now!
Key Points From This Episode:
[0:01:00] We introduce today’s topic of conversation: how to visit colleges.
[0:02:10] Step one: make an appointment!
[0:02:45] Our street cred when it comes to college visits.
[0:04:00] Options for visiting colleges and how to sign up.
[0:05:20] The type of tour parents think is a good idea, but really should be an add-on.
[0:06:55] What to do once you arrive at the college for your tour.
[0:08:40] We share helpful tips for kids to do before they go on college tours.
[0:12:10] Looking past a bad tour guide: what to look for on your tour.
[0:14:20] Why we don’t recommend multiple college tours a day.
[0:16:00] Getting off script and peeking under the hood (of the school!)
[0:16:30] The importance of making notes and documenting your time on tour.
[0:18:40] A tip for parents: helping your kid to ask the right questions.
[0:21:00] Writing “life” observations when on tour (and what is meant by that!)
[0:22:50] Now that the tour is finished: what not to do, parents!
[0:25:30] The importance of the exploratory phase of college tours.
[0:27:45] Getting what you want without strongarming your kid.
[0:29:00] What you don’t want as a result of a college tour.
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Sh*t Your Teenagers Won’t Tell You
Sh*t Your Teenagers Won’t Tell You on Instagram

Secrets to Success Every Straight A Student Knows

Does it seem like your teens are just coasting through school, disengaged, bored, and overwhelmed? In this episode of Sh*t Your Teenagers Won’t Tell You, Cathy and Meredith explore the challenges teens face in academics and how parents can help them thrive. From fostering engagement in boring classes to building effective study habits, you’ll learn actionable strategies for overcoming obstacles like disorganized time management, over-scheduling, and distractions. You’ll also find out why sleep, nutrition, and routine are vital for your teen’s academic success and discover the power of small goals, rewards, study groups, and time-management methods like the Pomodoro Technique. Want to empower the teen in your life to take control of their education? Don’t miss these tips and tricks to help them navigate school with confidence!
Key Points From This Episode:
[0:02:02] Top academic challenges and engagement issues.
[0:04:02] Study groups, connecting with teachers, and other tips to tackle boring classes.
[0:07:18] The need to adapt study habits to curriculum changes and seek teacher feedback.
[0:09:50] Common studying pitfalls: cramming, ineffective homework practices, and more!
[0:13:15] How distractions and poor study spaces impact focus and learning.
[0:16:47] Role of timing, sleep, nutrition, and boundaries in academic performance.
[0:22:55] Teaching teens to chunk time and balance academics with other priorities.
[0:25:39] Keys to leveraging the Pomodoro Technique and positive reinforcement.
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Learning How to Learn: How to Succeed in School Without Spending All Your Time Studying
'Learning How to Learn: Powerful mental tools to help you master tough subjects'
Pomodoro Technique
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College Admissions Deferrals & the LOCI: What Your Teen Needs to Know

Deferrals—what do they mean, and what should your teenager do next? In this episode of Sh*t Your Teenagers Won’t Tell You, we dive into the world of college admissions deferrals, breaking down the process, and provide actionable advice for crafting a standout Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI). In our conversation, we explore what colleges are really looking for and why the LOCI might not matter as much as you think. Discover misconceptions about the admissions process, find out why institutional priorities often outweigh student talent, and hear about the common LOCI pitfalls to avoid. Join us to learn about the ins and outs of college admissions and the secret behind crafting a compelling LOCI. Tune in now!
 
Key Points From This Episode:
 
[0:00:45] Introduction and outline of today's topic.
[0:02:06] What deferral means and how a LOCI can (and can’t) impact an application.
[0:04:37] Learn the dos and don'ts of writing a compelling and concise LOCI.
[0:06:15] How a typical LOCI is structured, what to include, and the accepted writing style.
[0:11:42] Why overloading admissions officers with new materials can hurt your chances.
[0:12:54] Find out why colleges require a LOCI for deferred applications. 
[0:14:42] Uncover why Cathy thinks deferrals and LOCIs are tied to business strategies.
[0:17:23] Explore the reasons why a student may be removed from a waitlist.
[0:19:35] Final takeaways and why the LOCI is nothing worth stressing about.
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Sh*t Your Teenagers Won’t Tell You
Sh*t Your Teenagers Won’t Tell You on Instagram

Can You Really F-Up Your Kids? Parenting Myths, Mistakes, and the Truth About Raising Teens

All parents worry about traumatizing their children. The truth is, if you’re a present parent who makes your child feel loved, screwing them up isn’t very likely! Today on Sh*t Your Teenagers Won’t Tell You, we discuss whether or not you can f-up your kids. In this conversation, you’ll find out why we believe it’s quite difficult to f-up your children, the complex combination of factors that typically cause dysfunction, how to ensure your child feels loved, accepted, important, and prioritized, and much more! We delve into finding a balance between over-parenting and under-parenting and why you can’t expect your teens to think and act like adults. We also explore why making mistakes won’t damage your children, important reasons to stay curious as a parent, and why constantly criticizing your children is probably the only thing that will actually screw them up. Thanks for tuning in!
Key Points From This Episode:
[0:03:24] Today’s topic of discussion: how not to f-up your kids!
[0:04:24] Why traumatizing your children is quite unlikely. 
[0:06:39] How a combination of factors causes dysfunction in youth, not a single thing. 
[0:07:54] Why it’s imperative that your child feels love and acceptance to develop healthily. 
[0:10:28] Finding the happy medium between over-parenting and under-parenting. 
[0:14:59] The dangers of expecting your teenager to think and act like an adult. 
[0:19:09] Why you don’t need to get everything right all the time as a parent. 
[0:20:47] The importance of staying curious in parenting and including teens in decisions. 
[0:24:50] Defining what high expectations and high support mean to us. 
[0:27:15] One surefire way to make your child feel unloved: criticize them. 
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Sh*t Your Teenagers Won’t Tell You
Sh*t Your Teenagers Won’t Tell You on Instagram

Teen Stress and Anxiety: Expert Tips from Jenn Gaskin, Educator, Mom, and Yoga Teacher

Today's generation of children has a remarkable knack for deconstructing the world around them. They reject judgment, advocate for inclusivity, and go to great lengths to ensure every disenfranchised voice has a seat at the table. And let’s be honest—no one calls out hypocrisy quite like a teenager! Joining Cathy and Meredith to dive into an insightful discussion, is their friend, Jenn Gaskin. Tune in to learn more about Jenn, the challenges she’s observed with today’s generation, and the positives and negatives of their approach to life. The discussion touches on adolescent distress tolerance, managing teenagers, and supporting their nervous system and anxiety. Jenn also shares practical tools to help kids navigate stress and anxiety, along with advice for parents to help their children thrive through adolescence. Don’t miss this insightful conversation—start listening now!
Key Points From This Episode:
[0:01:00] How Cathy met their guest, Jenn Gaskin.
[0:04:30] More incredible details about our guest, Jenn Gaskin.
[0:06:30] The changes Jenn’s noticed, for better or worse, with our kids today.
[0:07:55 The primary no-no with today’s generation.
[0:09:47] The things that worry her about this generation.
[0:12:20] They delve into a discussion about the level of adolescent distress tolerance.
[0:16:15] The [not] “cliff notes version” Jenn wants parents to know about managing teenagers, their nervous systems, and anxiety.
[0:24:50] Coping with anxiety: Jenn unpacks practical tools to help kids navigate anxiety.
[0:30:15] How Jenn helped her own five children manage their anxiety.
[0:34:00] Advice to parents navigating their children through adolescence.
[0:36:15] A story of how the home atmosphere influences the thinking capability of students.
[0:41:20] Sign up for the Village Mailing list to hear about upcoming workshops.
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Jenn Gaskin on LinkedIn
Jenn Gaskin
Jenn Gaskin Email
Gaskin Tutoring
The Price of Privilege
The Irreducible Needs Of Children
Village Coaches
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