The Warrior Parent Podcast

College admissions expert Shellee Howard, founder of College Ready, joins Marci and Debbie in this episode of the Warrior Parent podcast to share a values-first, service-led approach that helps teens discover who they are, find best-fit colleges, and graduate debt-free. She covers practical strategies to reduce stress, maximize merit aid, avoid AI pitfalls in applications, and prepare for a future...

In this episode of the Warrior Parent Podcast, Marci and Debbie sit down with Ipek Gray, founder of The Born Method—a modern self-understanding and decision-making system that blends data, math, and ancient wisdom using a patented 20-digit code from your birth date. They explore how this tool compares to the Enneagram, helps parents decode relationship dynamics, navigate burnout, and time major li...

In this episode, Marci and Debbie talk with Kevin Dahill-Fuchel, Executive Director of Counseling in Schools (NYC), about building school communities that heal and support kids, educators, and families. Kevin shares why CIS moved from ACEs screening to the strengths-and-difficulties questionnaire (SDQ), how a strength-based, community-centered model improves access and engagement, and why staff we...

In this moving episode of the Warrior Parent podcast, Marci and Debbie welcome trauma psychologist and spiritual integration expert Dr. Kirsten Viola Harrison, co-author of I, Seana. Together they explore Seana's extraordinary journey as a homeless intersex woman living with schizophrenia, the community that rallied around her, what it really means to be intersex, and why ending non-consensual "no...

Please note that this episode discusses sensitive and triggering topics - audience discretion advised. In this powerful Suicide Awareness Month episode, the hosts sit down with Kerry, a mom who bravely shares the heartbreaking story of losing her firstborn to suicide and the long, winding journey of healing that followed. Together, they discuss warning signs, what to say (and not to say), and prac...

Please note that this episode discusses sensitive and triggering topics - audience discretion advised In this Suicide Awareness Month 3rd episode, Marci and Debbie talk with retired law enforcement officer–turned–licensed professional counselor Patricia Costilla about destigmatizing suicide, her path into counseling, and practical prevention. They explore what to say when someone reaches out in cr...

Please note that this episode discusses sensitive and triggering topics - audience discretion advised In this Suicide Awareness Month episode of the Warrior Parent Podcast, Marci and Debbie speak with family therapist and crisis-line trainer Shirley Shani Ben Zvi about understanding suicidal ideation, the life-saving power of means reduction, and how compassionate, nonjudgmental conversation can k...

Please note that this episode discusses sensitive and triggering topics - audience discretion advised In this heartfelt episode of the Warrior Parent podcast, hosts Marci Mitchell and Debbie DiManno dedicate September to suicide awareness and prevention by engaging in a powerful conversation with Maddie Andrews, a mental health advocate and peer support specialist. Maddie shares her inspiring jour...

In this engaging episode of the Warrior Parent Podcast, hosts Marci Mitchell and Debbie DiManno sit down with certified life coach Randi Crawford to explore the complexities of modern parenting. They delve into the challenges of raising teens in today's fast-paced, digital world, emphasizing the importance of letting go, encouraging independence, and fostering open communication within families. R...

Please note that this episode discusses sensitive and triggering topics - audience discretion advised In this deeply moving episode of the Warrior Parent podcast, hosts Marci Mitchell and Debbie DiManno engage in a profound conversation with Cara Martinisi, a mother who transformed her unimaginable grief of losing her son into a life of purpose and resilience. The episode emphasizes the importance...

Join Marci and Debbie as they share their personal stories and insights on navigating life's stages with resilience and joy. Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply seeking inspiration, this episode offers valuable perspectives and practical advice to help you thrive. Resources from this episode: Join Our Facebook Group Learn More About CourTools Learn More About Cour Experience Thank you so...

In this episode of the Warrior Parent podcast, hosts Debbie DiManno and Marci Mitchell engage in a profound conversation with Todd Sarner, an experienced MFT, parenting coach and psychotherapist. They delve into the pivotal role of connection and attachment in parenting, especially in today's digital age, discussing how to nurture emotionally healthy and resilient children. Todd shares insights fr...

Please note that this episode discusses sensitive and triggering topics - audience discretion advised In this inspiring episode of The Warrior Parent, Darryll Stinson shares his powerful journey from college athlete to purpose-driven speaker after overcoming addiction, depression, and a loss of identity. He opens up about the importance of aligning with your true self, building systems of self-car...

In this episode of The Warrior Parent Podcast, hosts Marci Mitchell and Debbie DiManno introduce listeners to Jared Williams a.k.a. Bigfoot Judy, a former police officer turned nomadic community builder. This episode underscores the importance of finding your tribe and living a life that resonates with your core values.   Resources from this episode: Connect With Bigfoot Judy Join Our Facebook Gro...

In this episode of The Warrior Parent Podcast, career coach and author Helen Horyza joins Marci Mitchell and Debbie DiManno to explore how discovering your true self can lead to a life you're proud of. From navigating quarter-life crises to building emotional intelligence and taking small, actionable steps forward, Helen offers practical wisdom for anyone feeling stuck or overwhelmed. Whether you'...

Please note that this episode discusses sensitive and triggering topics - audience discretion advised In this episode of the Warrior Parent Podcast, hosts Marci Mitchell and Debbie DiManno engage in a heartfelt conversation with Brittany Stinson, a TEDx speaker and co-founder of Seeding Greatness. Brittany opens up about her husband's journey with clinical depression, sharing the tools and strateg...

In this special 2nd anniversary episode of The Warrior Parent Podcast, Marci and Debbie dive deep into important conversations about diversity and support for the LGBTQIA+ community with guest Rev. Dr. Pamela Anderson. Join Marci and Debbie as they celebrate two years of impactful conversations and continue to stand in their power, advocating for a more inclusive and compassionate world for all pa...

In this episode, hosts Marci and Debbie sit down with foster parent and entrepreneur Amy to explore the realities of foster care, from navigating challenging systems to finding true support. Amy shares her personal journey, the importance of self-care, and how she created Percy, a weighted comfort bear designed to offer calm and connection. Together, they discuss showing up for kids, healing throu...

In this episode of the Warrior Parent Podcast, Marci and Debbie are joined by special guest Brigitte Stills for a heartfelt conversation about compassion, purpose, and emotional resilience. From leading with empathy in tough situations to supporting men's mental health and the healing power of pets, they explore what it really means to show up for others. Through honest stories and shared wisdom,...

In this episode, Liyea Carpenter shares her journey from new motherhood and housing insecurity to building a purpose-driven career in real estate. She opens up about redefining professionalism, creating space for community, and drawing inspiration from the legacy of the Black Panthers. Her story is a powerful blend of resilience, advocacy, and modern-day activism.   Resources from this episode: Fo...

In this episode, Rev. Dr. Raymont Anderson joins Marci Mitchell for a powerful conversation on authenticity, joy, and reclaiming personal power. They explore the meaning of Pride, the impact of systemic oppression, and how self-care and community connection can be radical acts. Grounded in wisdom and heart, this episode is a call to live boldly and support one another in the fight for equity and l...

In this episode, Dr. Desi joins Marci and Debbie for a heartfelt conversation about spiritual integrity, resilience, and the power of authenticity. From navigating personal challenges to bringing mindfulness into the workplace, they explore what it really means to live from the inside out. Tune in for wisdom, laughter, and practical tools to help you align with your truest self. Resources from thi...

In this episode of The Warrior Parent, singer-songwriter Jesse Powers joins Marci and Debbie to share how music can be a powerful tool for healing, self-discovery, and joy. From overcoming fear to embracing self-forgiveness, Jesse opens up about her creative journey and the intention behind her uplifting songs. Listeners will walk away feeling inspired to choose joy and reconnect with their own in...

*Please note that this episode discusses sensitive and triggering topics - audience discretion advised* In this episode of The Warrior Parent Podcast, pediatric nurse Morgan Dierickx shares her powerful journey into nursing and the emotional realities of working with children in crisis. She offers insight into the rising mental health challenges facing youth today and how adults can show up with c...

In this special 100th episode, Marci and Debbie explore the "Let Them" theory — a powerful shift that helps parents let go of control and find peace. They share stories about choosing calm, modeling empathy, and doing the inner work that helps kids thrive. Touching on personal growth, neural pathways, and The Four Agreements, they offer simple tools like mindful breathing and boundary setting to s...