The Parenting 411 Podcast
When it comes to parenting, “the days are long, and the years are short.” You treasure the journey, but when chaos erupts you need solutions. That’s where we come in. We deliver information parents need from sources they can trust. You’ll hear from authors, educators, and other professionals who bring knowledge and compassion in service of their calling to help parents and children thrive.
When it comes to parenting, “the days are long, and the years are short.” You treasure the journey, but when chaos erupts you need solutions. That’s where we come in. We deliver information parents need from sources they can trust. You’ll hear from authors, educators, and other professionals who bring knowledge and compassion in service of their calling to help parents and children thrive.
Episodes

Feb 11, 2025
Feb 11, 2025
47 min
Are you ready to confidently advocate for your child and ensure they get the support they deserve in school? In this thought-provoking conversation on "School Advocacy 101: Stand Up for Your Child Today!", Carol Muleta of The Parenting 411 is joined by Jammie Carr, a private investigator and experienced advocate for Black children, especially those with IEPs. Jammie shares her powerful journey of resilience, faith, and purpose as a mother and kinship adoptive parent, navigating the challenges of raising children with unique educational needs.
Gain valuable insights and practical strategies to advocate for your child, build meaningful connections with schools, and create a supportive environment for your family. Learn how to recognize your child's needs, effectively engage with educators, and empower your child to thrive academically and emotionally. This heartfelt discussion highlights the importance of purposeful parenting, resilience, and standing up for what’s right.
Tune in to discover how you can make a lasting impact by partnering with schools and championing your child’s success. Let’s raise children who are confident, well-supported, and prepared to navigate life’s challenges. Share your thoughts below—your journey as a parent could inspire others!
Don’t forget to subscribe to The Parenting 411 for more empowering conversations and tools to enrich your family life.
CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Introduction
01:34 - Jamie’s Journey to Private Investigator
05:09 - Parenting: Biological vs. Kinship Adoption
09:24 - Understanding IEP: Importance and Definition
12:49 - Identifying IEP Needs in Children
18:29 - Self-Advocacy for Students with IEPs
22:09 - Addressing IEP Implementation Issues
24:54 - Advocacy Hesitations Among Black Parents
28:05 - Starting the School Year Right
30:18 - Supporting Your Child's Teacher
38:23 - Closing Thoughts
41:55 - How to Follow Jamie
44:43 - Outro
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Let's stay connected: Website: http://www.theparenting411.com/ IG: http://www.instagram.com/the_parenting_411 Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/theparenting411 YouTube: @TheParenting411

Feb 7, 2025
Feb 7, 2025
39 min
Revolutionize your family's health with this game-changing 5-minute strategy that doesn't require a gym membership! Dr. Paul Kolodzik, with 30 years of emergency medicine experience, shares a revolutionary approach to improving metabolic health for parents and teens alike. Discover how simple dietary adjustments and smart technology can help prevent conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and obesity.
Learn why traditional weight loss advice may be holding your family back, and how continuous glucose monitoring can provide eye-opening insights into your body's response to food. From understanding insulin resistance to making sustainable lifestyle changes, this episode provides practical solutions for busy families. Dr. Kolodzik breaks down complex medical concepts into easy-to-understand strategies, helping you make informed decisions about your family's health journey. Whether you're concerned about teen weight management, struggling with metabolic issues, or simply want to create healthier habits at home, this conversation offers the blueprint for lasting change.
Get ready to revolutionize your family's approach to health with evidence-based strategies you can start implementing today.
CHAPTERS
00:00 - Intro
02:16 - Transition from ER Doctor to Metabolic Health
03:51 - Causes of Obesity and Diabetes Epidemic
08:35 - Understanding Insulin Resistance and Reversal Strategies
14:18 - Benefits of Limited Intermittent Fasting
16:14 - Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs)
21:17 - Parenting and Purpose Summit Insights
24:14 - Overview of GLP-1
30:26 - Teens and Maintaining Healthy Weight
35:50 - Staying in Touch with Dr. Kolodzik
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Let's stay connected:
Be sure to LIKE & SUBSCRIBE!
Learn More About Carol
Grab Carol's Mini-Motherhood Memoir, Mother's Work
Follow The Parenting 411 on IG
The Parenting 411 Podcast on IG
Join Our Private Facebook Group
Watch the Episodes on YouTube

Feb 4, 2025
Feb 4, 2025
29 min
Unlock your child’s creativity through art! 🎨 In this thought-provoking conversation on the Parenting 411 Podcast, Carol Muleta sits down with the incredible Tamyra "Miss TeeKay" Kumoji to share valuable insights on how art can transform your parenting journey. From storytelling and painting to self-care rituals and mindfulness practices, discover practical strategies to foster emotional intelligence, resilience, and connection with your children.
Miss TeeKay draws from her rich background as an artist, early childhood educator, and mom to three creative daughters. Together, Carol and Miss TeeKay explore how simple, everyday artistic activities can help children express their emotions, navigate challenges, and strengthen family bonds. Whether you’re looking to make art a powerful tool for self-care or a way to build deeper connections with your kids, this episode is packed with purposeful parenting tips and heartfelt advice.
Tune in to discover how you can bring joy, balance, and creativity into your family life. Share your thoughts below—what’s your favorite way to encourage your child’s creative side? Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to join us in raising resilient, authentic, and connected children. Parenting is an art—let’s create something beautiful together! 🎨✨
___________________________________________________
CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Intro
01:55 - Starting in the Arts
03:08 - Art for Children's Emotional Expression
06:28 - Art as a Therapeutic Tool
11:16 - Art for Parental Self-Care and Mindfulness
12:51 - Artist's Influence on Parenting Style
14:12 - Parenting Summit Overview
15:02 - Parenting Style's Impact on Children
18:42 - Self-Care Tips for Parents
24:10 - Following Miss TeeKay Online
25:44 - Where to Find Miss TeeKay
27:35 - Offline Connection Guide
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Let's stay connected:
Website: http://www.theparenting411.com/
IG: http://www.instagram.com/the_parenting_411
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/theparenting411
YouTube: @TheParenting411

Jan 28, 2025
Jan 28, 2025
35 min
Don't let these common college planning mistakes derail your teen's future! Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Laurie Genevish, founder of My Ideal College. Discover why starting the college planning process in sophomore year is crucial and how to avoid common pitfalls that stress both parents and teens.
Laurie shares valuable insights on:
• Why the college landscape has changed dramatically
• The importance of career assessments in guiding choices
• How to balance parental guidance with teen autonomy
• Alternatives to traditional college paths
Tune in as we explore practical strategies for purposeful college planning that aligns with your teen's unique interests and strengths. Whether college, trade school, or a gap year is on the horizon, this episode equips you with the knowledge to support your child's journey confidently.
Don't miss out on this essential guide to avoiding critical college planning mistakes.
CHAPTERS
00:00 - Intro
01:00 - Working with Teens: Lori's Journey
04:39 - Changes in Teen Development
06:10 - Common Parenting Mistakes
10:29 - Career Guidance for Teens
14:08 - Evaluating College as a Path
17:58 - Parenting Support and Resources
18:47 - Choosing the Right College
20:22 - College Financial Planning Tips
23:24 - Parental Involvement in Education
25:35 - Balancing Parental Engagement
31:20 - Following My Ideal College
33:20 - Parent and Purpose Membership
34:55 - Disclaimer
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Let's stay connected:
Be sure to LIKE & SUBSCRIBE!
Learn More About Carol
Grab Carol's Mini-Motherhood Memoir, Mother's Work
Follow The Parenting 411 on IG
The Parenting 411 Podcast on IG
Join Our Private Facebook Group
Watch the Episodes on YouTube

Jan 14, 2025
Jan 14, 2025
49 min
Stop making communication mistakes with your kids! In this eye-opening conversation, discover how ancient wisdom from the Rosetta Stone can transform your parent-child relationships. Dr. Joel Freeman, international speaker and creator of the Mysterious Rosetta Stone traveling exhibit, shares powerful insights on breaking down communication barriers and building deeper connections with your children.
Learn practical strategies to avoid the top 3 communication pitfalls that create distance between parents and kids. Dr. Freeman reveals how understanding different communication styles, like the ancient languages on the Rosetta Stone, can help bridge generational gaps and foster meaningful dialogue in your family. This thought-provoking discussion explores how parents can adapt their communication approach based on each child's unique personality and needs. Get valuable tips on problem-solving techniques that strengthen family bonds and prepare children for life's challenges.
Are there communication barriers between you and your teen? Would you like to build stronger connections with your young children? If you answered 'yes', this conversation offers fresh perspectives on nurturing open, authentic dialogue in your family. Join us as we uncover timeless principles that can revolutionize how you communicate with your kids.
CHAPTERS
00:00 - Intro
01:38 - The Rosetta Stone Explained
06:21 - Rosetta Stone as a Problem-Solving Metaphor
09:55 - The Three Revolutions Overview
17:37 - Effective Problem Solving Techniques
19:30 - Nurturing and Developing Talent Strategies
26:23 - Advertise with Pro Picks
27:12 - Recognizing the Problem in Depth
29:10 - Gathering Information for Solutions
29:51 - Specifying Goals for Success
33:35 - Parenting Today: Modern Approaches
39:55 - Mother/Son and Father/Son Bonding Trips
44:14 - How to Follow Dr. Joel Online
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Let's stay connected:
Be sure to LIKE & SUBSCRIBE!
Learn More About Carol
Grab Carol's Mini-Motherhood Memoir, Mother's Work
Follow The Parenting 411 on IG
The Parenting 411 Podcast on IG
Join Our Private Facebook Group
Watch the Episodes on YouTube
SstQogWXtJfd2PqbgdU5

Jan 7, 2025
Jan 7, 2025
51 min
Discover how to create a joyful home with expert tips from Dr. Lori Johnson Vegas, 2023 National Mother of the Year. In this thought-provoking conversation, we explore the power of laughter, family connections, and purposeful parenting. Learn practical strategies for incorporating humor into your daily routine, from laughter and meditation to creating a family "embarrassing moments" list. Dr. Vegas shares valuable insights on navigating challenges and fostering resilience through joy. Tune in as we discuss the science behind laughter's impact on relationships and mental health. You might be raising young children or guiding teenagers. Either way, you'll gain actionable advice to transform your home atmosphere. Join us in uncovering the secrets to a happier, more connected family life.
CHAPTERS
00:00 - Intro 00:42 - Dr. Lori Johnson Vegas
02:02 - Moving Every 2 Years Experience
07:13 - Military Home Program Benefits
12:49 - Laughter and Relationship Improvement
14:41 - Embarrassing Moments List Creation
17:41 - Laughter Meditation Practice
23:00 - Propic by P411 Overview
25:15 - Laughter at Funerals Discussion
30:41 - Laughter Meditation Techniques
33:44 - The Power of Laughter Explained
36:50 - Bringing Laughter into Your Home
46:49 - Find Dr. Burton Online
50:05 - Free Copy of Motherswork The Book
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Let's stay connected:
Be sure to LIKE & SUBSCRIBE!
Learn More About Carol
Grab Carol's Mini-Motherhood Memoir, Mother's Work
Follow The Parenting 411 on IG
The Parenting 411 Podcast on IG
Join Our Private Facebook Group
Watch the Episodes on YouTube

Jun 25, 2024
Jun 25, 2024
39 min
In this insightful episode, Carol Muleta sits down with Joy Thomas Moore, Peabody Award winner, author of "The Power of Presence," and proud mother of Maryland Governor Wes Moore. Joy shares her powerful strategies for raising children who grow into influential leaders and positive changemakers. Drawing from her own parenting journey and the seven pillars outlined in her book, Joy dives deep into the crucial roles of connectedness and values. She offers practical tips for fostering strong parent-child bonds, even amid the busyness of life, and imparting core values that shape a child's moral compass. Joy provides a refreshing perspective on "being present" that goes beyond physical proximity. Listeners will learn how to cultivate an impactful voice in their child's inner ear - one that guides them through challenges, instills confidence, and empowers them to make wise choices. Whether a single parent, working parent, or caregiver, this episode equips listeners with the tools to raise emotionally intelligent, purpose-driven children who positively impact the world around them. Joy's wisdom and personal stories illustrate how prioritizing presence can leave a lasting legacy that transcends generations. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with insights on nurturing meaningful connections, imparting core values, and positioning children for success while staying true to your authentic parenting journey.
cJYNqiegznTo8jvXa6Xt
Learn more about Joy Thomas Moore at https://power-ofpresence.com.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Let's stay connected:
Website: theparenting411.com
IG: @the_parenting_411
Facebook: The Parenting 411
YouTube: The Parenting 411

Jun 18, 2024
Jun 18, 2024
52 min
In this episode, I chat with Leslie Cohen-Rubury, a seasoned social worker with nearly 40 years of experience, about how to really understand and connect with your kids. Leslie, the host of "Is My Child A Monster?", shares down-to-earth advice for handling those tough moments—whether it's dealing with big emotions, improving communication, or managing challenging behaviors. Join us for a heartfelt conversation full of practical tips to help you navigate the ups and downs of parenting. Don't miss out on "Parenting for Understanding." Learn more about Leslie Cohen-Rubury at https://lesliecohenrubury.com/. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Let's stay connected:Website: theparenting411.com IG: @the_parenting_411Facebook: The Parenting 411 YouTube: The Parenting 411

Jun 11, 2024
Jun 11, 2024
55 min
Today, we speak with Anthony Patterson, Sr. and Chelsea Randolph about their mission to teach Black and Brown children to swim. Along the way, you’ll discover the inspiring story of the Nile Swim Club of Yeadon, the first and oldest Black swim club in the U.S., and the life-saving impact of their initiatives, including their “No Child Will Drown in Our Town' program. Anthony spent countless summers at the Nile and speaks fondly of the positive impact the Club had on his life. Hear what Chelsea shares about the challenges and triumphs of teaching swimming and water safety and her commitment to combating water-related tragedies. Anthony and Chelsea, on their own paths, are dedicated to making swimming accessible to all and their passion for this mission is palpable. You don’t want to miss this! Learn more about Anthony Patterson, Sr. and his work with the Nile Swim Club at https://www.nileswimclub.org. Learn more about Chelsea Randolph and Randolph Swim Academy here: https://www.facebook.com/randolphswimacademy. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Let's stay connected:Website: theparenting411.com IG: @the_parenting_411Facebook: The Parenting 411 YouTube: The Parenting 411

Jun 4, 2024
Jun 4, 2024
44 min
In this episode, I sit down with Cathi Nelson, a passionate parent and the visionary founder of The Photo Managers. Cathi shares her inspiring journey from organizing her children's photos to establishing a thriving business that helps families worldwide preserve their precious memories.Join us as we explore the transformative power of photos in boosting children's self-esteem and the importance of knowing their story. Cathi walks us through her top tips for photo organizing, offering practical pointers to help parents go from feeling overwhelmed to overjoyed with their photo collections.We discuss creative ways to use your existing photos, tackle the common challenge of photo overwhelm, and discuss essential privacy concerns when storing and sharing digital images. Plus, you'll learn how the resurgence of photo printing can help reduce screen time and bring your family closer together.If you're a hobbyist looking to get organized or considering a career in photo management, Cathi's insights and expertise are sure to inspire. Discover how to make photo organizing a fun and meaningful family activity. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with valuable tips and heartwarming stories, and find out how you can start preserving your family's memories today! Learn more about Cathi Nelson and Photo Managers at https://thephotomanagers.com/meet-the-team/~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Let's stay connected:Website: theparenting411.com IG: @the_parenting_411Facebook: The Parenting 411 YouTube: The Parenting 411

Mother's Work: Pearls of Wisdom &
Gems From My Journey
To say motherhood has been an adventure is quite an understatement. It's been more like a wild ride, but I wouldn't trade a moment of it. Not only has it been my privilege to watch my baby boys grow, but my continued evolution as a woman AND a mom has also been an unexpected blessing. Along the way, I held fast to pearls of wisdom that comforted and guided me. Each mother has a unique path to tread in guiding each of her children to be who God intended them to be. I am thrilled to share my journey with you.








