Ep 65 They’re Not Leaving You - They’re Just Doing a Lap with Michelle Mitchell

In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Kristi is joined by Michelle Mitchell, parenting expert, author, and educator, for a practical, encouraging conversation about connection, boundaries, and raising resilient teenagers. With decades of experience equipping families to stay connected through the messy emotional years, Michelle brings grounded insights that help parents move beyond fear and frustration and into thoughtful, values-based parenting. This is not a perfection-based conversation. It’s a connection-based one. Kristi and Michelle explore why control isn’t the goal, why “parenting is just hard” is a myth, and how building trust with teenagers requires intentional, age-appropriate guidance. They discuss: Why connection matters more than control Teaching principles instead of just rules Using friendships as the practice ground for adult relationships How to stay consistent and present, even when your child pushes away Why saying “no” is sometimes the most loving thing you can do Navigating independence while maintaining safety The roundabout metaphor for the normal ups and downs of growing up Michelle shares practical frameworks for guiding teens through decision-making, resilience-building, and critical thinking, while Kristi connects these principles to child safety, advocacy, and helping children grow into capable adults. Together, they reinforce a simple truth: Kids don’t need perfect parents-they need present ones. This episode is about showing up, even when it’s messy, and giving your children the space to grow safely while knowing they are supported. Key Themes Covered Connection vs. control in parenting Teaching principles rather than just rules Age-appropriate trust and boundaries How to handle teenage pushback without conflict Encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving Preparing children for independence and real-world decisions Staying present and consistent as a parent Using everyday moments to build resilience and advocacy skills Why This Conversation Matters Parenting teenagers can feel overwhelming. Social media, technology, and cultural shifts add pressure, and parents often doubt whether they’re doing it “right.” This episode reminds us that: Children thrive when adults show up consistently, not perfectly Trust is earned and age-appropriate, not unconditional Boundaries teach respect, safety, and critical thinking Resilience comes from practice, not perfection Michelle and Kristi model that parenting isn’t about controlling every outcome-it’s about guiding children to become thoughtful, capable adults who know they are supported and loved. About Michelle Mitchell Michelle Mitchell is a parenting expert, author, and educator with decades of experience supporting families through the emotional ups and downs of childhood and adolescence. She teaches parents to: Build connection over control Set meaningful boundaries Guide teenagers with age-appropriate trust Encourage critical thinking, advocacy, and resilience Michelle’s mission is simple: equip parents with tools and confidence so children can grow into capable, confident adults. Website: www.michellemitchell.org  Instagram: @michelle.mitchell Practical Support & Resources If this episode has raised questions about parenting, boundaries, or guiding children through adolescence, Kristi offers trauma-informed education and practical tools for parents and carers. 🔗 Explore education and resources: 👉 www.kristimcvee.com  Resources include: Guidance on connection-based parenting Tools for teaching children advocacy and self-expression Conversation guides for families Trauma-informed strategies for resilience and safety Support Services (Australia) If you or someone you love needs support: Lifeline – 13 11 14 | lifeline.org.au MensLine Australia – 1300 78 99 78 | mensline.org.au 1800RESPECT – 1800 737 732 | 1800respect.org.au Kids Helpline (ages 5–25) – 1800 55 1800 | kidshelpline.com.au If you are in immediate danger, contact emergency servi