4 Peaks Parents with Thomas Miller
Welcome to the Four Peaks Parents Podcast with Thomas Miller. Are you tired of your tween’s, teen’s, & young adult’s negative behaviors & poor choices holding you emotionally hostage, controlling your family, & ruling your life? Do you feel like you are riding an emotional rollercoaster every time you walk into your house? If you answered “yes,” then you are in the right place. This podcast is a community for courageous parents just like you who come here to gain effective tools, skills, & learn concrete action steps, so they can parent in a confident, calmer, & empowered manner. Let’s change your tween’s...
Parents Aren't the Problem: Family-Based Treatment for Teen Eating Disorders Featuring Dr. Lauren Muhlheim
In this episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, I'm joined by Dr. Lauren Muhlheim, a psychologist, fellow of the Academy for Eating Disorders, certified eating disorder specialist, and director of Eating Disorder Therapy LA. She wrote When Your Teen Has an Eating Disorder and is certified in Family-Based Treatment, an approach that puts parents at the center of a teen's recovery rather than sidelining them. That's where we spend most of our time. So many parents carry enormous guilt here, convinced they caused this somehow, and Dr. Muhlheim takes that apart. We talk about what the early warning signs...
Two Overdoses and a Way Back: Parenting a Child Through Addiction Featuring Brenda Zane
On this episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, I'm talking with Brenda Zane, a TEDx speaker, Mayo Clinic certified health coach, and co-founder of Hopestream Community. Brenda spent more than 20 years in marketing and advertising, working with brands like Nike, Starbucks, PepsiCo, and Microsoft, before her oldest son's substance use and multiple fentanyl overdoses changed the course of her life. In 2020 she walked away from that career and built Hopestream, a global 501c3 that now runs a top 1% ranked podcast, workshops, and a private community for moms and female caregivers whose kids are struggling.
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What to Say (and Not Say) When You Find It Featuring Ben Mushlin, LICSW
On this episode of 4 Peaks Parents, I'm talking with Ben Mushlin, LCSW about the moment every parent dreads: finding the vape, the bottle, or the pills. We dig into what to say and what not to say in that first conversation, so you can lead with clarity instead of panic and keep the door open with your teen or young adult. Ben is a LCSW and the founder of Searchlight Therapy a group therapy practice that specializes in providing outstanding care to teens, young adults, & their families. Ben is also the Author of Lighting the Way - a parents...
The Mother Gets Lost Too a converstaion with Danny Ruderman
On this episode of 4 Peaks Parents, I'm talking with Danny Ruderman, author of Harvard Doesn't Care About You, Mom. The college admissions process is supposed to prepare a young adult for independence. Often, it quietly reshapes the parent instead — especially the mother. Danny is an independent college counselor, and together we talk about the identity strain mothers face during this season — and what it actually takes to stay grounded through it. To reach Danny directly go to Dannyruderman.com
Splitting Up Without Breaking Down: Money, Kids, and Divorce
On this episode of 4 Peaks Parents, I'm talking with Lisa Zeiderman, Managing Partner at Miller Zeiderman LLP and a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst and Certified Financial Litigator whose practice bridges custody, finances, and long-term planning. We dig into how the money habits and mindsets kids absorb from their parents can shift during divorce, and why intentional legal and financial planning is key to protecting a family's long-term stability. You can reach out to Lisa directly at lisazeiderman.com.
Burnout, Balance Beams, and Becoming Whole Featuring Laura H-S Collins
On this episode of 4 Peaks Parents, I'm talking with Laura H-S Collins, LCSW, known as "the athlete psychotherapist," a psychotherapist and speaker with over 20 years of clinical experience. A former elite gymnast and Division I diver, Laura lived inside the all-or-nothing world of elite sport and the perfectionism and stress that came with it as a young athlete. She now draws on that journey to help leaders, parents, athletes, and clinicians move from imposter syndrome and burnout toward clarity, resilience, and genuine belonging. Learn more at lcollinslcsw.com (http://lcollinslcsw.com/)
Travel, Growth Mindset & Building Confidence in Neurodivergent Kids featuring Jennifer Wallace
In this episode of the Four Peaks Parents Podcast, Jenn and I discuss how traveling with your neurodivergent child can build confidence, resilience, flexibility, and a growth mindset. We explore how new experiences help kids move beyond limiting beliefs and see themselves as capable of handling challenges and thriving. To follow Jenn & Caleb’s journey further visit here: https://www.instagram.com/calebscourageoustravels?igsh=a3RldDIwNzRwajV2
College Planning Without the Chaos Featuring Shellee Howard
On this episode of 4 Peaks Parents, I'm talking with Shellee Howard Professional Certified College Strategist and bestselling author about how to help your teen find real direction, pay for school without drowning in debt, and skip the senior-year meltdown by planning early.
If you've got a kid in grades 7-12, this one's for you. 🎧 Reach out to Shelle further here: www.collegereadyplan.info
Understanding Addiction's Impact on the Whole Family feautring Kevin Petersen
In this episode of 4 Peaks Parents, we sit down with Kevin Petersen, MA, LMFT, nationally recognized family therapist, author of Chronic Hope Families & Addiction, Director of Family Services at Jaywalker Lodge to explore why addiction is a family illness and how it impacts parents, siblings, and loved ones. Kevin shares practical insights on navigating the challenges of addiction, fostering healthier family dynamics, and finding hope & healing through recovery. Learn more about Kevin's work at the Chronic Hope Institute at chronichope.us.
Food Is Medicine: Raising Healthier Families featuring Whitney Aronoff
Chef Whitney Aronoff, is the founder of Starseed Kitchen organic spices, Starseed Kitchen Personal Chef Services and host of the High Vibration Living Podcast. She joins the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast to discuss how food is more than nutrition - it’s a foundation for energy, focus, emotional wellness, and family connection. We explore simple, realistic ways parents can build healthier eating habits at home, reduce stress around food, and model wellness for their kids without striving for perfection. A practical conversation full of approachable strategies for healthier, more connected families. To connect more deeply with Whitney visit: inktr.ee/wh...
Raising Financially Confident Kids Through Action, Not Just Advice featuring Casey Gregerson
In this episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, Casey Gregerson & I discuss how parents can help their kids build financial literacy, confidence, and an abundance mindset by modeling healthy behaviors around money, risk, work ethic, and opportunity. We explore why kids learn far more from what we consistently demonstrate than from “do as I say, not as I do” parenting and how leading by example can shape the way they approach success, responsibility, and independence for life.
If you’d like to connect further with Casey visit: https://caseygregersen.com/
Can You Really Get Sober Young… and Stay Sober with Dimitri Kourepis
In today’s episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, featuring Dimitri Kourepis, we explore a question many families are asking: is it really possible to get sober at a young age and stay sober? Who better than Dimitri to share his recovery story that began at a young age. He is now the founder of Kourepis Coaching & Recovery and co-owner of Linden Recovery, and he breaks down what separates a solid recovery plan from a shaky one, and how structure, accountability, and high standards can change the trajectory of a life. If you want to connect with Dimitri further, ch...
When Your kid's Negative Behavior is Actually a Speech / Language Issue with Ashlyn Lelej, M.S., CCC-SLP
In today’s episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, featuring Ashlyn Lelej, M.S., CCC-SLP, we explore how a child's "poor choices" or academic frustration may actually be a struggle to communicate or be understood. She is the founder of Speech Matters with over 20 years of experience in speech, language, and feeding development. We explore how identifying early feeding and communication challenges can prevent long-term academic and mental health struggles while providing actionable insights to help your child thrive.
Protecting Your Marriage to Parent Better with Dr. Maggie Vaughan, LMFT
In this episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, Featuring Dr. Maggie Vaughan, we offer tools, communication skills, and mindset shifts to help couples stay connected and resilient through tough parenting seasons. Maggie shares practical ways to strengthen your marriage while raising a struggling child. To reach out to he further check out her website: https://www.everyoneneedstherapy.com/
Resilient Parenting When Things Go Wrong: A Science-Based Conversation with Dr. Lund
On this episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Kate Lund, a psychologist, TEDx speaker, best-selling author, and host of “The Resilient Parenting Podcast with Dr Kate”. Dr. Kate specializes in helping parents turn life’s toughest, most stressful moments into meaningful breakthroughs.
In this conversation, we explore:
Parenting, Redefined: Seeing Your Child's Behavior Through a Developmental Lens Featuring Dr. Kristen Cook
On this episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Kristen Cook, a pediatrician who helps parents shift their perspective by viewing "misbehavior" through a developmental lens.
Many parents find themselves frustrated by temper tantrums, aggression, or a perceived lack of focus, often wondering if their child is "behind" or even struggling with conditions like ADHD. Dr. Cook shares critical insight into why many of these challenging behaviors, from hitting and biting to short attention spans, are actually developmentally normal for toddlers and preschoolers.
In this co...
Raising Ready Fathers Featuring Jeff Hittner
On this episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, we’re joined by Jeff Hittner, founder of Ambitious Dads executive coach, leadership expert, entrepreneur, and father to two amazing boys. We discuss why so many dads are unprepared for the hardest and most important job they will ever have and how Jeff has made it his mission to help fathers move from overwhelmed to prepared, intentional, and ready to lead. To learn more about Jeff’s work and the Ambitious Dads mission, he can be reached at https://www.ambitiousdads.com/
You’re Not Alone: The Healing Power of Parent to Parent Support Featuring Liz Reitman
On this episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, we’re joined by Liz Reitman, Co-founder of Other Parents Like Me, who shares how her family’s struggles led to the creation of a deeply supportive parent community. This heartfelt conversation explores the power of connection, healing, and the life-changing relief of knowing you’re not alone. This episode is a reminder that even in our hardest moments, connection can change everything. To learn more about Liz and Other Parents Like Me visit their site: https://oplm.com/
Chasing Losses: What Parents Need to Know About Teen Gambling Featuring Brian Dolan
On this episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, we’re joined by Brian Dolan, a therapist and life coach who specializes in helping individuals break free from gambling addiction. He shares essential insights, practical tools, and warning signs parents need to know especially as gambling behaviors increasingly take root in young people through online gaming, sports betting, and social pressures. To reach out to Brian directly please visit: www.briandolancounseling.com/
From Crisis to Commitment: Shifting from Short-Term Fixes to Long-Term Recovery Featuring Scott Apgar
On this episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, Scott Apgar from Choice House joins me to discuss the shift from temporary solutions to meaningful, enduring recovery. Together, we unpack why long term support is essential and how families can build a pathway that sustains change. A powerful conversation for parents seeking clarity, stability, and hope. To reach out to Scott directly please email him at [email protected] and to learn more about Choice House go to: https://choicehousecolorado.com/
From Recovery to Renewal: Reentering the Workforce with Purpose Featuring Kelley Joyce
On this episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, I’m excited to speak with Kelley Joyce, a seasoned career coach and founder of The Truth at Work, who brings both her corporate expertise and her own personal journey through burnout & recovery to the table. Kelley works with professionals and young adults alike to help them rebuild confidence, rediscover purpose, and re-enter the workforce after challenges like mental-health struggles or addiction recovery. In this conversation, we’ll explore how to find direction again when life knocks you off course and what it really takes to create a sustainable, fulfilling career afte...
Facilitate Vs. Fix your Teen's Issues Featuring Sophia Vale Galano
On this episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, I am joined by Sophia Vale Galano who is an author & a licensed therapist. We discuss how to approach conversations with your teen from a place of curiosity rather than control. Together, we explore how letting go of “fixing” creates space for genuine connection and meaningful dialogue. To connect with Sophia and learn more about her practice and new book be sure to visit her website https://sophiagalano.com
A Deep & Intimate Look at the Trials of Being a Dad Featuring Casey Jacox
On this episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, I sit down with the incredible Casey Jacox — author of “Win The Relationship, Not The Deal,” nationally recognized keynote speaker, and host of the Quarterback DadCast. Casey & I dive deep into the real journey of fatherhood — the wins, the losses, the laughter, and the lessons that come from trying to be the best dads we can be. We get honest about the struggles, the self-doubt, and the importance of showing up as intentional (but imperfect) parents in today’s fast-paced world. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to lead with heart —...
How Parents Can Guide Without Overstepping Featuring Brandon Moffit
In this episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, I’m joined by Brandon Moffit, Executive Director & Co-Founder of Black Mountain Academy & Intrepid Young Adults, to talk about the tough balancing act in parenting—supporting your neurodiverse teen or young adult’s growth without micromanaging their journey.
Together, we discuss how parents can affirm progress, provide guidance, and create opportunities for independence—without being heavy-handed or controlling. If you’ve ever struggled to find the fine line between helping your child grow and trying to manage their every step, this conversation is for you. If you want t...
Trusting Your Instincts: Parenting Beyond the Diagnosis Featuring Farah Harris, LCPC
On this episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, I am joined by Farah Harris, LCPC who is a Belonging & Workplace Well-being expert and a licensed psychotherapist. Farah opens up about how her parenting journey includes raising 3 children, 2 of whom are neurodivergent, and how her parenting has been influenced by, but not defined by her children's diagnoses. We discuss the power of parenting from an instinctual place that's grounded in connection & emotional regulation and we discuss how to support your children w/ confidence & calm. To connect with Farah on a deeper level you can conect with her, through her website...
The Power of Friendship in Young Adult Transitions Featuring Dr. Jack Hinman
In this episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, Dr. Jack Hinman & I discuss why safety / secure connections and building friendships are the foundation for healing and growth, and how creating a “secure base” allows young adults to explore, build confidence, and update their relational operating system. If you are a parent of a young adult struggling to find their footing, this conversation offers insight, hope, and a roadmap forward. If you want to learn more about Dr. Hinman who is the Executive Director & Co-Founder of Engage Transitions, which helps participants move beyond mental health struggles and “failure to launch” barriers...
Supporting Adopted Children: Insights Featuring Norm Thibault
In this episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, I’m joined by Norm Thibault, Executive Director of At the Crossroads, a residential transitional living program for young adults. Together, we explore the unique challenges and opportunities parents face when raising adopted children and teens. Norm shares his deep experience working with young people navigating identity, belonging, and the transition to adulthood. If you are parenting an adopted child or teen—or want to better understand the adoption experience or your child’s journey as well as how to create an environment of trust and emotional safety, and ways to streng...
Emotional Intelligence at Home: A Conversation with Tara Renze.
On this episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, I’m joined by Tara Renze, author, speaker, and coach, to explore the power of emotional intelligence in parenting. We discuss how parents can strengthen their own E.Q. to stay grounded, calm, and unflappable when facing their kids’ challenging choices. Tara shares her insights on raising emotional intelligence in ourselves first, so that we can model resilience, connection, and clarity for our children. If you want to reach out to Tara just visit her site: www.tararenze.com
Support - Don't Hover When Your Kids Start Their Careers featuring Jaime Diglio
Watching young adults step into their first jobs is exciting—but it often comes with bumps along the way. In this episode, Performance Coach for leaders & sellers & teams - Jaime Diglio joins us to unpack the challenges new professionals face and how parents can encourage growth without micromanaging. To learn more about Jamie's performance coaching work with leaders, sellers, & teams check out her site: www.thewinroom.com
Cooking Up Confidence: Getting Kids in the Kitchen with Leigh Feldman
In this episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, I have the privilege of sitting down with Leigh Feldman, CEO of Youth Franchise Brands and dad of four, to explore how time in the kitchen can help kids build confidence, creativity, and life skills. From hands-on cooking classes to everyday family meals, Leigh shares insights on why giving kids a role in the kitchen is about so much more than just food. If you want to reach out to Leigh and or learn more about Young Chef’s Academy just visit:
https://youngchefsacademy.com
From Farm Lessons to Fatherhood: Raising Kids Into Adulthood featuring Jeff Larsen
In this episode, Jeff Larsen—an experienced sales professional—shares how he’s helped his sons step confidently into adulthood. Drawing on the lessons of growing up on a farm and the role modeling he received from his own father, Jeff reflects on the parenting principles that have guided his journey. If you’d like to connect further with Jeff or if you happen to be in the market for a new car you can reach him at http://linkedin.com/in/jeff-larsen-aa4593187
Divorce Without Damage: The Power of Mediation for Families featuring Joe Dillon
In this episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, I speak with Joe Dillon about how choosing mediation over a prolonged, acrimonious divorce can significantly reduce the negative impact on children. Joe is the Founder of Equitable Mediation and is an expert mediation specialist. Tune in to learn how a peaceful mediation can set the family up for success and create a healthier environment for everyone involved. To learn more and to reach out to Joe directly visit: https://www.equitablemediation.com/
When Eating Disorders Take Hold: A Guide for Parents w/ special guest Ibbits Newhall
In this episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, I’m joined by eating disorder treatment specialist Ibbits Newhall for an eye-opening conversation about how eating disorders can quietly take hold of a teen or young adult — and the powerful impact this can have on the entire family system. We explore how parents can recognize the signs, respond with clarity and compassion, and help their child reclaim a healthy relationship with food, body, and self. If you want to reach out directly to Ibbits visit https://www.ibbitsnewhall.com.
When Eating Disorders Take Hold: A Guide for Parents w/ special guest Ibbits Newhall
In this episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, I’m joined by eating disorder treatment specialist Ibbits Newhall for an eye-opening conversation about how eating disorders can quietly take hold of a teen or young adult — and the powerful impact this can have on the entire family system. We explore how parents can recognize the signs, respond with clarity and compassion, and help their child reclaim a healthy relationship with food, body, and self. If you want to reach out directly to Ibbits visit https://www.ibbitsnewhall.com.
Surviving Summer: Structure, Screen Time & Sanity
In this episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, we dive into practical tips and strategies to help parents navigate the long summer months with balance and intention. From creating healthy routines to allowing space for downtime, this episode offers a roadmap for giving your kids structure without sacrificing their need to relax and recharge — all while helping them avoid falling into the screen-time trap.
The Path from Addiction to Recovery to Treatment Advocate, with Brett Mullen
In this episode of the 4 Peaks Parents Podcast, Brett Mullen shares his powerful recovery story—an honest look at the impact of addiction on his life and family, and how his family's support gave him hope. Now a treatment advocate, Brett opens up about his journey from substance abuse to a life of purpose and service. If you would like to connect with Brett here's the best way - http://linkedin.com/in/brett-mullen-b70b6a35
Is your parenting "too soft "or "too firm"? Thomas & his wife discuss & attempt to resolve their differences
In this episode of the 4 peaks Parenting Podcast Thomas & his wife explore their differing parenting styles and discuss whether they tend to be "too soft or too firm," with their aproach. Listen as they discuss old conflcits / debates and how they have resolved them even though they are far from perfect. It's a candid conversation full of insights for any parent navigating the ups & downs of raising kids.
Behind the scenes w/ an Interventionist, Brad Warner
In this episode, I sit down with Brad Warner, a seasoned interventionist, to share over 30 years of practical advice for families facing mental health or addiction challenges. Brad dispels common myths and guides you in determining if an intervention is the right step for your family.
Creating a Parenting Culture for the "Championship Child”
In this 4 Peaks Parenting Podcast episode we explore how to build a "championship child."
A “championship child” isn’t just about trophies or elite success—it’s about raising a young adult with resilience, character, purpose, and the ability to thrive independently. The parenting culture in the home is the training ground and every family has a culture whether by design or by default.
A championship child is not a just high-performing, but a well-rounded child. Listen to this episode and learn how you can build a championship child and develop not just what they should do...
What I Thought vs. What I Know Now As a Parent
In this episode of the 4 Peaks Parenting Podcast we will explore how your parenting has evolved over the years. We will discuss how many parents go into it with strong ideas about how it should be, only to find that real life, real kids, and real emotions shift everything. We will take a look at how early parenting assumptions don’t hold up — not because we were bad parents, but because we were growing up alongside our kids. Listen to challenge your early notions or assumptions of what parenting is all about & to continue evolving.