On this episode of the Raising Sons podcast, Dr. Richelle, also known as Dr. Shell, addresses the emotional toll that parenting takes on parent’s mental health. She shares her personal experience with postpartum depression and emphasizes the importance of taking care of your mental health. Dr. Richelle offers practical advice on seeking help, maintaining spiritual practices, and managing physical health. The episode encourages listeners to take small steps towards better mental health, provides resources for support, and underscores the value of self-care in effective parenting.

Additionally, Dr. Whittaker reminds everyone to save the date for What About Our Sons conference in Houston, TX on September 7th.

If you're having challenges with your son's development or behavior and need help, schedule a consultation, here.

Text Raising Sons to 1.833.638.5442 to ask questions, leave comments, receive our newsletter, or obtain information about the upcoming conference.

Disclaimer: Dr. Richelle is a therapist, but she is not your therapist. All information provided is not to be taken as therapy.

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For questions, concerns, to subscribe to the newsletter or obtain information about the What about Our Sons conference, Text Raising Sons to 1.833.638.5442

See you all next week!

On this episode of the podcast, Dr. Richelle, also known as Dr. Shell, discusses the sensitive and often overlooked topic of sexual assault in boys. She shares important statistics, dispels common myths, and emphasizes the need for parents to recognize signs of abuse. Dr. Richelle also provides practical advice on how to talk to sons about their bodies and appropriate touch, and the importance of seeking professional help if abuse occurs. She also recommends parents seek professional help to deal with any biases and challenges they have about boys, sexual assault, and masculinity. The episode features real-life incidents and encourages open, supportive communication between parents and their sons.

Additionally, Dr. Whittaker reminds everyone to save the date for What About Our Sons conference in Houston, TX on September 7th.

If you're having challenges with your son's development or behavior and need help, schedule a consultation, here.

Text Raising Sons to 1.833.638.5442 to ask questions, leave comments, receive our newsletter, or obtain information about the upcoming conference.

Disclaimer: Dr. Richelle is a therapist, but she is not your therapist. All information provided is not to be taken as therapy.

On this episode of the Raising Sons podcast, Dr. Richelle, discusses the critical role environment plays in the developmental, academic, and behavioral growth of young boys. She shares insights on creating supportive environments for sons, emphasizing that a positive setting can bolster their confidence, character, and social skills. Dr. Whittaker offers practical advice on selecting suitable schools, adjusting environments when necessary, and preparing for key transitions. 

Additionally, she shares information about the upcoming What About Our Sons conference in Houston on September 7th.

If you're having challenges with your son's development or behavior and need help, schedule a consultation, here.

Text Raising Sons to 1.833.638.5442 to ask questions, leave comments, receive our newsletter, or obtain information about the upcoming conference. .

Disclaimer: Dr. Richelle is a therapist, but she is not your therapist. All information provided is not to be taken as therapy.

On this episode of the podcast, Dr. Richelle addresses the significance of male mentorship in the developmental journey of boys. Dr. Whittaker empathizes with mothers facing challenges with their sons’ behavior and academic struggles, and she provides reassurance and support. She emphasizes that male mentorship is essential because boys navigate the world differently and require male figures to model after and guide them through life's complexities. This episode includes practical advice on finding male mentors through organizations like churches, Boys and Girls Clubs, and scouting programs. Dr. Whittaker also shares insights from her husband and son on why male mentorship is pivotal. The episode wraps up by encouraging mothers to consider scheduling personalized consultations for tailored advice on their sons' development.

If you're having challenges with your son's development or behavior and need help, schedule a consultation, here.

Text Raising Sons to 1.833.638.5442 to ask questions, leave comments, or receive information about the vision casting workshop.

Workshop Link: https://bit.ly/visiooncastingworkshop

00:22 Empowering Weary Moms

01:29 Join Our Vision Casting Workshop

02:10 The Importance of Male Mentorship

06:53 Finding Male Mentorship for Your Son

09:00 Conclusion and Next Steps

Disclaimer: Dr. Richelle is a therapist, but she is not your therapist. All information provided is not to be taken as therapy.

On this episode of the Raising Sons podcast, Dr. Richelle talks about conversations she has had with her sons about choosing the right friends. Her sons share the qualities they value in friends and the challenges they face in navigating peer relationships. The discussion includes relatable stories and strategies for helping boys establish a strong sense of identity and select friends who positively influence them. Through conversations shared with her sons, Dr. Richelle provides a framework for recognizing and nurturing positive friendships, highlighting the significance of mutual respect, loyalty, and a shared value system. The episode offers a valuable checklist to guide mothers and sons in fostering friendships that align with their character and values, aiming to build a strong, confident foundation as they grow.

If you're having challenges with your son's development or behavior and need help, schedule a consultation, here.

Text FRIENDS to 1.833.638.5442 to receive the checklist on choosing friends.

Disclaimer: Dr. Richelle is a therapist, but she is not your therapist. All information provided is not to be taken as therapy.

Dr. Richelle shares a personal story about addressing test anxiety with her son during a car ride to school. Dr. Shell discusses recognizing her son's academic struggle, despite high classwork scores, and initiates a heartfelt conversation about coping strategies. These strategies include prayer, meditation on scripture, breathing exercises, and reaching out to teachers for a holistic understanding of his performance. The episode emphasizes the importance of open communication, applying religious faith in daily challenges, and practical steps for preparation and anxiety management. Dr. Shell also offers support and advice to other parents facing similar issues, encouraging them to schedule a consultation for tailored guidance.

If you're having challenges with your son's development or behavior and need help, schedule a consultation, here.

Send us an email or text to let us know what questions you have. Email us at drrichelle@richellewhittaker.com or text Raising Sons to 1.833.638.5442.

00:00 Welcome to Raising Sons: Navigating Your Son's Journey

00:24 The Car Conversation: Tackling Test Anxiety Together

02:05 Empowering Strategies: Prayer, Meditation, and Preparation

03:17 Applying Faith and Discipline: Beyond Sunday School

04:15 Holistic Approaches and Personal Experiences

05:43 Creating a Supportive Space for Your Son

06:23 A Message of Hope for the Weary Mama

07:30 Closing Thoughts and Next Steps

Disclaimer: Dr. Richelle is a therapist, but she is not your therapist. All information provided is not to be taken as therapy.

On this episode of the podcast, we explore the topic of autism to bring awareness and aid for mothers navigating their son's developmental challenges. On this episode, Toya shares her personal journey with her son, who is on the autism spectrum, detailing the early signs of autism, the diagnosis process, and how her background in speech and developmental disorders provided a unique perspective on addressing and managing these challenges. The episode highlights the importance of early intervention, the value of parental instincts, and the resources available to parents of children with disabilities. Dr. Richelle also discusses balancing motherhood with educational and mental health advocacy, aiming to empower mothers with knowledge and support.

If you're having challenges with your son's development or behavior and need help, schedule a consultation, here.

Send us an email to let us know what questions you have. Email us at drrichelle@richellewhittaker.com. Text Autism to 1.833.638.5442 to receive the worksheet on the 5 Most Common Misconceptions about Autism.

00:00 Welcome to Raising Sons: Navigating Autism

00:25 Autism Awareness: A Personal Journey

00:59 Family Dynamics and the Autism Spectrum

02:35 The Path to Diagnosis: Challenges and Insights

04:57 Navigating Motherhood and Autism: A Personal Story

07:19 Insider Perspective: The Advantage of Professional Knowledge

09:55 Wrapping Up: Insights and Encouragement

On this episode of the Raising Sons podcast, host Dr. Richelle delves into strategies for building self-efficacy in sons. Dr. Shell emphasizes the importance of identifying and nurturing a child's natural inclinations, whether it be in academics, building, music, or any other area, and then using those strengths as a foundation to tackle and overcome challenges in less favored areas. She differentiates between self-efficacy (belief in one’s ability to accomplish a specific task successfully) and self-confidence, underscoring that building self-efficacy involves honing specific skills through encouragement, practice, and exposure to activities that reinforce a child’s belief in their capabilities. The episode includes practical advice for parents on how to support their sons in developing a robust sense of self-efficacy by engaging them in activities related to their interests, seeking external validation through competitions or performances, and applying successes in preferred areas to those that are more challenging or less interesting to the child. Dr. Shell invites feedback from listeners and encourages interested parents to seek personalized guidance through one-on-one consultations.

If you're having challenges with your son's development or behavior and need help, schedule a consultation, here.

Send us an email or text to let us know what questions you have. Email us at drrichelle@richellewhittaker.com or text Raising Sons to 1.833.638.5442.

Time Stamp

00:23 The Importance of Personalized Guidance in Raising Sons

00:50 Building Self-Efficacy in Sons: An In-Depth Guide

01:35 Feedback and Interaction: The Heart of Our Community

02:39 Understanding Self-Efficacy and Its Impact

04:22 Practical Strategies to Boost Your Son's Self-Efficacy

06:49 Using Success in One Area to Overcome Challenges in Others

11:04 The Difference Between Self-Confidence and Self-Efficacy

14:13 Wrapping Up and How to Stay Connected

Disclaimer: Dr. Richelle is a therapist, but she is not your therapist. All information provided is not to be taken as therapy.

This episode of the podcast delves into the crucial topic of academic engagement among boys transitioning from elementary to middle and high school. Dr. Richelle discusses the observed trend of decreased academic interest as boys age and introduces self-efficacy as a key focus for upcoming episodes. To empower parents in supporting their sons' academic journey and future prospects, she proposes a reflective exercise. This involves observing sons' interests and behaviors over a week and reminiscing on past tendencies that indicate natural inclinations. The goal is to empower sons to believe in their capabilities, highlighting the importance of confidence in their actions and decisions. The exercise is seen as a foundational step for parents to guide their sons in building self-efficacy and navigating their academic and personal growth. Dr. Richelle encourages feedback on the exercise through texting or emailing her, emphasizing the significance of personalized guidance in raising boys.

If you're having challenges with your son's development or behavior and need help, schedule a consultation, here.

Send us an email or text to let us know what questions you have. Email us at drrichelle@richellewhittaker.com or text Raising Sons to 1.833.638.5442.

Time Stamp

00:25 The Importance of Personalized Guidance in Raising Sons

00:52 Introducing a Unique Exercise for Parents

01:10 Deep Dive into Academic Engagement and Self Efficacy

03:34 The Exercise: Observing and Reflecting on Your Son's Interests

07:03 Why Focusing on Boys' Development Matters Now More Than Ever

08:40 How This Exercise Prepares You for Future Challenges

09:50 Join the Conversation and Share Your Insights

10:42 Wrapping Up and How to Stay Connected

Disclaimer: Dr. Richelle is a therapist, but she is not your therapist. All information provided is not to be taken as therapy.

This episode of the Raising Son podcast focuses on the importance and effects of the academic environment on sons' engagement and interest in studies. The discussion spans different schooling options, including public schools, magnet schools, charter schools, and private schools, catering to unique needs and interests. It emphasizes the critical role the school culture and learning environment play in a child's adjustment. The episode ends with an encouragement for parents to consider new and different environments that may lie outside their comfort zones for the best interest of their sons.

If you're having challenges with your son's development or behavior and need help, schedule a consultation, here.

Send us an email or text to let us know what questions you have. Email us at drrichelle@richellewhittaker.com or text Raising Sons to 1.833.638.5442.

Disclaimer: Dr. Richelle is a therapist, but she is not your therapist. All information provided is not to be taken as therapy.

In this episode of the 'Raising Sons' podcast, Dr. Shell discusses the role of academic engagement in a boy's development. She explains the concept and importance of student engagement, with particular emphasis on boys' need to make a connection between current learning and future ambitions. The episode also highlights the national crisis of declining college enrollment among males. Dr. Shell underlines the wide-ranging consequences of this, including potential labor shortages in various professions, limited access to resources such as insurance, loss of purpose leading to possible issues in stability, and a widening wealth gap.

If you're having challenges with your son's development or behavior and need help, schedule a consultation, here.

Send us an email or text to let us know what questions you have. Email us at drrichelle@richellewhittaker.com or text Raising Sons to 1.833.638.5442.

Disclaimer: Dr. Richelle is a therapist, but she is not your therapist. All information provided is not to be taken as therapy.

This live episode of the podcast explores diverse issues around raising boys. The episode features discussions on handling issues like impulsivity in boys, addressing questions on various topics like sexuality, foster a sibling relationship, promoting positive male involvement in children's lives, navigating the challenges of having children living in multiple households, and handling disrespectful behavior. The session integrates engaging interactions, Q&A sessions, and Dr. Shell shares practical tips on effective parenting, emphasizing the importance of open communication, lifestyle modifications and shaping boys' behaviors based on their interests and motivation.

If you're having challenges with your son's development or behavior and need help, schedule a consultation, here.

Send us an email or text to let us know what questions you have. Email us at drrichelle@richellewhittaker.com or text Raising Sons to 1.833.638.5442.

Purchase your ticket for the Raising Sons brunch: https://bit.ly/raisingsonsbrunch2

Disclaimer: Dr. Richelle is a therapist, but she is not your therapist. All information provided is not to be taken as therapy.

Don't forget this podcast episode will be Live. If you have questions or just want to meet me live in person (virtually anyway), meet me in the Zoom room at 12 noon CST.

Join us for a Live Q&A of the podcast on January 24 @12 noon CST, Register here.

If you're having challenges with your son's development or behavior and need help, schedule a consultation, here.

Send us an email or text to let us know what questions you have. Email us at drrichelle@richellewhittaker.com or text Raising Sons to 1.833.638.5442.

Purchase your ticket for the Raising Sons brunch: https://bit.ly/raisingsonsbrunch2

On this episode of the podcast, Dr. Chelle discusses mental health and our boys. It's essential for us to recognize that mental health knows no gender boundaries. Boys, just like girls, can experience a wide range of emotions and challenges, from academic stress to societal expectations, peer pressure, and beyond. Yet, the stigma surrounding mental health issues can prevent many boys from opening up about their struggles, leading to potential long-term consequences.

Educational institutions, families, and communities play a pivotal role in shaping the mental health landscape for our boys. Providing access to mental health resources, fostering open conversations about emotions, and promoting a supportive atmosphere can make a significant impact.

For additional resources, get the guide here.

Join us for a Live Q&A of the podcast on January 24 @12 noon CST, Register here.

If you're having challenges with your son's development or behavior and need help, schedule a consultation, here.

Send us an email or text to let us know what questions you have. Email us at drrichelle@richellewhittaker.com or text Raising Sons to 1.833.638.5442.

Purchase your ticket for the Raising Sons brunch: https://bit.ly/raisingsonsbrunch2

Disclaimer: Dr. Richelle is a therapist, but she is not your therapist. All information provided is not to be taken as therapy.

In this episode of the Raising Sons podcast, Dr. Shell discusses the importance of identifying a son's learning preference for successful academic engagement. Emphasis is put on the four primary learning styles - visual, auditory, read/write, and kinesthetic - and how most classroom environments lean towards visual/auditory learning, which might not cater to all students. Dr. Shell highlights that boys generally have a kinesthetic learning preference. She suggests various strategies a parent can implement at home to help their son follow his learning preference, ensuring his engagement with his studies. Dr. Shell outlines the use of quizzes, parent-teacher meetings, and personal observations to understand your son's learning preference. She also emphasizes the beneficial role of tutors and encourages parental involvement in homework, providing the needed academic support to your sons.

If you're having challenges with your son's development or behavior and need help, schedule a consultation, here.

Send us an email or text to let us know what questions you have. Email us at drrichelle@richellewhittaker.com or text Raising Sons to 1.833.638.5442.

Learning Preference Quiz: https://vark-learn.com/the-vark-questionnaire/

Purchase your ticket for the Raising Sons brunch: https://bit.ly/raisingsonsbrunch2

Disclaimer: Dr. Richelle is a therapist, but she is not your therapist. All information provided is not to be taken as therapy.

In this episode of the Raising Sons podcast, Dr. Shell discusses a discipline approach focusing on positive reinforcement rather than punishment. She elaborates on how praise and rewards can encourage desirable behavior in children, specifically your sons, increasing the likelihood of similar actions in the future. Examples of positive reinforcement include praising children for good grades or completing chores. Dr. Shell describes her experiences with her youngest son where punishment wasn't working, but rewarding him for improvements in his homework grades led to better outcomes. She emphasizes the need to adapt discipline methods as per the child's responsiveness, as no two children are the same.

If you're having challenges with your son's development or behavior and need help, schedule a consultation, here.

Disclaimer: Dr. Richelle is a therapist, but she is not your therapist. All information provided is not to be taken as therapy.

Talking to your son about death is a delicate and challenging conversation, but it's an important part of life. Recognize that the conversation about death is not a one-time event. Encourage your son to continue expressing his feelings and thoughts as he processes the information.

By approaching the conversation with sensitivity, honesty, and a commitment to ongoing support, you can provide your son with the tools to navigate this challenging aspect of life. Remember that each child is unique, so adapt these guidelines to suit your son's individual needs and understanding. Be patient, compassionate, and attentive to your son's needs as you navigate this sensitive topic together.

If you're having challenges with your son's development or behavior and need help, schedule a consultation, here.

Disclaimer: Dr. Richelle is a therapist, but she is not your therapist. All information provided is not to be taken as therapy.

In this episode, we delve into the art of discipline, exploring strategies that foster positive growth and understanding in your son. Our goal is to help parents navigate the challenges of disciplining while maintaining a healthy parent-child relationship. Disciplining your son is a journey of growth and learning for you and for him. By combining clear communication, consistency, positive reinforcement, and empathy, you can foster a nurturing environment that promotes positive behavior and strengthens the relationship. Remember, discipline is an opportunity for teaching and guiding, not just correcting

If you're having challenges with your son's development or behavior and need help, schedule a consultation, here.

Disclaimer: Dr. Richelle is a therapist, but she is not your therapist. All information provided is not to be taken as therapy

In this episode, we delve into the profound influence of your words on your son's development and well-being. Discover how nurturing, affirming language can positively shape your son's self-esteem, resilience, and future success. My insights and real-life anecdotes provide practical strategies to strengthen the parent-child bond and guide your son toward a path of happiness and personal growth. Join us in unlocking the transformative potential of your words and learn how they can become a powerful force for good in your son's life. This episode is your gateway to fostering a more resilient, confident, and emotionally intelligent young man. Tune in now to harness the extraordinary power of your language and its impact on your son's journey toward a brighter future."

Also if you haven't seen Kirk Franklin's documentary titled Father's Day check it out. It speaks volumes to the power of your words even into adulthood.

Lastly, if you'd like to catch a glimpse of what my day-to-day looks like raising sons, follow me on TikTok @drwhittaker1.