425: When PARENTING Doesn't Turn Out As Planned // Michelle Barrow

What happens when your child's story looks nothing like the one you had imagined? This heartfelt encore episode features my dear friend, Michelle Barrow—a mother of four and grandmother of six—who generously shares the wisdom she’s gained from raising teenagers and supporting her adult children through life’s unexpected twists.

This conversation is a powerful companion to last week’s episode with author Jessica N. Turner on moving forward when life doesn’t turn out as planned. In this episode, Michelle invites us into her journey of learning how to let go of rigid expectations, make room for her children’s evolving identities, and parent from a place of trust rather than fear.

In this conversation, you'll hear:

💜 Why “parenting formulas” don’t guarantee outcomes—and how letting go of expectations can lead to more peace and joy.

💜 What it looks like to change the rules mid-parenting, and how doing so can strengthen trust and relationships within your family.

💜 How to stay rooted in your values while giving your children the freedom to shape their own stories.

💜 And ultimately, how you can find peace and steadiness in parenting, even when things don’t go as planned.

Whether you're parenting toddlers or teens, this episode will leave you feeling seen, inspired, and encouraged to embrace the beautifully imperfect journey of motherhood.

For full show notes, including takeaways, click here.

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Related Episodes:

279: Navigating Parenting Triggers // Nat Vikitsreth

272: How to Fall Back in Love with Motherhood When It All Feels Hard // Tessa Brown

206: 3 Things to Remember when Parenting is Difficult

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