CircleIN: The Family Leadership Center Podcast
CircleIN: A Family Leadership Podcast provides inspiration, up-to-date research, timeless wisdom, and humor leaving parents and caregivers hopeful and encouraged.
info_outline
017: From Bored to Brilliant
07/17/2025
017: From Bored to Brilliant
Tired of "I'm bored" driving you crazy? 😩 This episode reveals why allowing kids to solve their own boredom can be a secret superpower! Marjie and Paige explore how modern parenting often prevents this crucial experience, and why allowing discomfort can spark incredible creativity and independence. Discover how to create an environment that encourages self-entertainment, building resilience and intrinsic motivation that lasts a lifetime. Get ready to embrace the quiet, trust your child's capabilities, and witness the magic born from doing "nothing." ✨ _____________________________________________________ 💬Join the Conversation: Your ideas and questions matter. We’d love to hear about boredom in your family. Also, we love hearing your boredom hacks! send us a voice message through our leave us an email us 🙏Subscribe & Rate: If you’re enjoying the podcast, please take a moment to rate and review us wherever you listen to your podcasts. 🩵Follow us on Hosts Marjie Longshore, Founder of Paige Trevor, Special thanks to editor Max Cotter, Marike Pienaar, and Wendy Tracy Resources 🧘🏽, lessons from a tween 💡 🎧 Listen to for inspiration on connecting with your child through Special Time 🧹Chores can be boredom busters, done right. Learn how in this short blog, Stay Connected 📝 ⚖️
/episode/index/show/1df0422f-934c-48f6-b78a-06e56ca53c9a/id/37161925
info_outline
016: The Hidden Truth About Power Struggles (It’s Not About Control)
06/30/2025
016: The Hidden Truth About Power Struggles (It’s Not About Control)
Think your child is just being difficult? Think again. We reveal the surprising reasons behind power struggles and how you can shift the dynamic with empathy and clarity. We welcome a favorite guest, Certified Parent Educator, Patti Cancellier. This episode is your blueprint for fewer battles and more peace. Remember, peace begins at home. _____________________________________________________ 💬Join the Conversation: Your ideas and questions matter. send us a voice message through our leave us an email us 🙏Subscribe & Rate: If you’re enjoying the podcast, please take a moment to rate and review us wherever you listen to your podcasts. 🩵Follow us on Hosts Marjie Longshore, Founder of Paige Trevor, Special thanks to editor Max Cotter, Marike Pienaar, and Wendy Tracy Resources 🎥 Avoid Power Struggles and (hilarious 40 seconds of wisdom) ☕🏚️Paige has a short in the morning without yelling! 📖Check out the book “” Patti mentioned. 🏋️Diminish Power Struggles by written by former FLC board member, Andy Hooper. Stay Connected 📝 ⚖️
/episode/index/show/1df0422f-934c-48f6-b78a-06e56ca53c9a/id/37161860
info_outline
015: From Screen Stress to Family Harmony: Simple Strategies to Tame Technology
06/20/2025
015: From Screen Stress to Family Harmony: Simple Strategies to Tame Technology
Tired of the screen time struggle? Discover how to influence (not just control!) your kids' tech habits with Adlerian (aka encouraging) wisdom! Marjie and Paige share their thoughts on starting with an apology for your part in the struggle. They focus on a myriad of ways to connect, set screen-free zones 📵, and "add in" compelling real-world experiences like adventures & jobs. Let's raise confident, balanced kids together! 💬Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you how you feel about parenting today around these tricky topics. Or if you struggle, let us know, we can work on it together. send us a voice message through our leave us an email us 🙏Subscribe & Rate: If you’re enjoying the podcast, please take a moment to rate and review us wherever you listen to your podcasts. 🩵Follow us on Hosts Marjie Longshore, Founder of Paige Trevor, Special thanks to editor Max Cotter, Marike Pienaar, and Wendy Tracy Resources 💻 🫱🏼🫲🏽 📵Get access to (good for children of all ages!) 📝Read about the ! 🧺🧽 Stay Connected 📝 ⚖️
/episode/index/show/1df0422f-934c-48f6-b78a-06e56ca53c9a/id/37058990
info_outline
014: The Resilience Recipe: The 4 Crucial Cs for Thriving Kids
06/09/2025
014: The Resilience Recipe: The 4 Crucial Cs for Thriving Kids
Ever wonder how to help your child bounce back from challenges, genuinely care for others, and step up responsibly? We get it. The good news is, there's a powerful, yet simple, framework: The 4 Crucial Cs.* These essential building blocks are core needs, and actively nurturing them helps your child connect meaningfully and contribute positively. In today’s episode, you will learn how by focusing on the Cs, you'll empower your kids to develop self-discipline, and become confident problem-solvers. Ultimately, this approach fosters true resilience, enabling them to navigate life's ups and downs with grace and strength, ready to embrace responsibility and flourish. Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you helped your child (or yourself) with the 4Cs. Or if you struggle to find ways to incorporate them, let us know, we love to brainstorm with you. Share your thoughts on or drop us an email at . 🙏Subscribe & Rate: If you’re enjoying the podcast, please take a moment to rate and review us wherever you listen to your podcasts. ⁉️Questions/Suggestions/Feedback: We’d love to hear from you! Your feedback helps us continue to bring helpful and insightful episodes every week. You’re welcome to email us your parenting questions and challenges, as well as feedback and suggestions for the podcast at Alternatively, send us a voice message through our or leave us an . Hosts Marjie Longshore, Founder of Paige Trevor, Special thanks to editor Max Cotter, Marike Pienaar, and Wendy Tracy Resources 🎧 For more on Special Time or “Hang Time” listen to 💪🏽To focus on strengths check out for a refresher on Noticing What’s Right 📒PocketGuide: 🌮Read about Paige’s family ritual on 📝For more about criticism and mattering read 📖 The CircleIN podcast from Family Leadership Center is based on Adlerian philosophy, including the work of Dr. Alfred Adler. Dr. Adler's core needs were translated into The Four Crucial Cs by Drs. Amy Lew and Betty Lou Bettner. The Cs are: Connect (belonging), Capable (movement, progress), Count (significance, mattering), Courage (encouragement). Ansbacher, H. L., & Ansbacher, R. R. 1956. The Individual Psychology of Alfred Adler, Basic Books. New York. Bettner, B.L. & Lew, A. 1989. Raising Kids Who Can. Connexions Press. MA. (available for sale at familyleadershipcenter.org) Dreikurs, R. & Soltz, V. 1964. Children: The Challenge. Hawthorn Books. New York. Stay Connected 📝 ⚖️
/episode/index/show/1df0422f-934c-48f6-b78a-06e56ca53c9a/id/36922180
info_outline
013: Listen Up, Parents! Transform Your Child’s Behavior by Hearing What They Really Mean
05/22/2025
013: Listen Up, Parents! Transform Your Child’s Behavior by Hearing What They Really Mean
What if the key to fewer power struggles wasn’t saying more, but saying less? In this episode, we dive into the power of listening to understand with Certified Parent Educator Patti Cancellier. Through examples and inspiring stories, we explore how simply being present and truly hearing your child can defuse conflict, build connection, and even encourage your child to solve their own problems. We’ll provide actionable guidance on how to practice focused listening in your family. And, you’ll discover how listening — without jumping to fix or advise — can be one of your most effective parenting strategies. Tune in to learn why sometimes, the best thing you can say… is nothing at all. Join the Conversation: Your ideas and questions matter. We’d love to hear how you experienced listening in a new way. Share your thoughts on or drop us an email at . 🙏Subscribe & Rate: If you’re enjoying the podcast, please take a moment to rate and review us wherever you listen to podcasts. ⁉️Questions/Suggestions/Feedback: We’d love to hear from you! Your feedback helps us continue to bring helpful and insightful episodes every week. You’re welcome to email us your parenting questions and challenges, as well as feedback and suggestions for the podcast at Alternatively, send us a voice message through our or leave us an . We’re so excited to hear from you! Hosts Marjie Longshore, Founder of Paige Trevor, Special thanks to editor Max Cotter, Marike Pienaar, and Wendy Tracy Resources 📚. To support parents and caregivers facing job insecurity and high stress for themselves and their families, PEP is offering its Live Monthly Webinars and On-Demand Videos FREE of charge this spring. Use code PEPFREE to access these resources. 🧠 Patti mentioned Dan Siegel’s brain explanation when you 🔍Check out for a refresher on Problem Identification 🤫💕Paige’s Blog: Stay Connected 📝 ⚖️
/episode/index/show/1df0422f-934c-48f6-b78a-06e56ca53c9a/id/36670230
info_outline
012: Breaking Mom Myths: The Best Gift You Can Give Yourself
05/09/2025
012: Breaking Mom Myths: The Best Gift You Can Give Yourself
Our gift to you this Mother’s Day is a conversation about busting the Mom Myths that leave us anxious and overwhelmed. We’ll share some of the myths we’ve personally believed, along with the ones we hear most often from colleagues and clients. And, most importantly, we’ll offer low-effort, high-impact ways to care for your child’s beloved Mom—you. Join the Conversation: Share your own Mom Myth plus the ways you take good care of YOU. Share your thoughts on social media or drop us an email at . 🙏Subscribe & Rate: If you’re enjoying the podcast, please take a moment to rate and review us wherever you get your podcasts. Your feedback helps us continue bringing you helpful and insightful episodes every week. Hosts Marjie Longshore, Founder of Paige Trevor, Special thanks to editor Max Cotter, Marike Pienaar, and Wendy Tracy Resources 👭Adult Friendships spark joy! about her book, Never Enough. 💆 🔍Check out for a refresher! ♥️ Marjie mentioned this . 📻 Stay Connected 📝
/episode/index/show/1df0422f-934c-48f6-b78a-06e56ca53c9a/id/36502765
info_outline
011: The Power of Noticing + Shining a Light on Strengths: How Positive Attention Builds Cooperation
04/28/2025
011: The Power of Noticing + Shining a Light on Strengths: How Positive Attention Builds Cooperation
In today’s episode, we dive into the transformative power of focusing on the positive actions our kids take, rather than always highlighting what they get wrong. Parenting can often feel like an endless cycle of correction, but what happens when we start noticing and celebrating the good? From the small gestures of kindness to big moments of growth, we explore how highlighting what's right can improve your relationship with your children, boost their self-esteem, and foster a more supportive family environment. Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you practice noticing what’s right in your family. Share your thoughts on social media or drop us an email at . 🙏Subscribe & Rate: If you’re enjoying the podcast, please take a moment to rate and review us wherever you get your podcasts. Your feedback helps us continue bringing you helpful and insightful episodes every week. Hosts Marjie Longshore, Founder of Paige Trevor, Special thanks to editor Max Cotter, Marike Pienaar, and Wendy Tracy Resources 📋 🔍Check out for a refresher on Problem Identification ⁉️Want help to ID the problem and determine who owns it? Send an email to: 🍅🥕Blog: 🐶More from Jenny Wallace about the Stay Connected 📝 ⚖️
/episode/index/show/1df0422f-934c-48f6-b78a-06e56ca53c9a/id/36340335
info_outline
010: Whose Problem is it Anyway? Understanding Problem Ownership
04/11/2025
010: Whose Problem is it Anyway? Understanding Problem Ownership
As parents so often we get so wrapped up in issues- which aren’t even ours to solve! Today, we tackle a question that every parent faces: Who really owns the problem—the child or the parent? Marjie and Paige explore the delicate balance between our own problems, our kids’ problems, and a shared problem. Once we are clear whose problem it is, we know whether we need to take action, offer support, or discuss solutions. We see how getting clear on who owns the problem helps us respond in the most effective way—whether it's stepping back, offering guidance, or finding a solution together. Problem ownership helps us get out of convincing and over explaining. From forgotten soccer shoes to help with setting the table, we discuss how parents can determine when to step back and when to step in. Whether you’re a parent of a toddler, teenager, adult, or somewhere in between, this episode offers valuable insights into raising resilient, independent children while still offering the love and support they need. Tune in and you might just discover it’s not your problem! Hosts Marjie Longshore, Executive Director of Paige Trevor, Special thanks to editor Max Cotter and Wendy Tracy. Resources 📋 ⁉️Having trouble ID’ing your problems? We’d love to help, send an email to: 📒PocketGuide: ⏰If you have the problem of Morning Mayhem, ! 🔍Check out Episode for a refresher on Problem ID Stay Connected 📝 ⚖️
/episode/index/show/1df0422f-934c-48f6-b78a-06e56ca53c9a/id/36090165
info_outline
009: Family Harmony Starts with Problem Identification: Here’s How
03/28/2025
009: Family Harmony Starts with Problem Identification: Here’s How
Many families have someone (often one of the parents) who is super capable and takes over the task of problem solving in the family. The challenge is that even if their ideas are great, they can run into trouble if the others don't buy into their solutions. What if we told you we have a tool that can help you focus, lower your emotions and get you into positive change? We have one and it’s called problem identification! Today we focus on the importance of recognizing challenges without shame or blame. We discuss how pinpointing the core issue can lead to more effective solutions and open, compassionate conversations. Problem ID is a tool for families to address concerns without judgment, fostering a healthier, more understanding environment. Whether it’s communication breakdowns, emotional needs, or different expectations, learning to identify the problem with empathy and respect can transform family dynamics. (As mentioned, check out to hear Marjie & Louisa–Marjie’s daughter–talk about the problem of people in a teenager’s room!) Hosts Marjie Longshore, Executive Director of Paige Trevor, Special thanks to editor Max Cotter and Wendy Tracy. Donate 🎁🎁 Resources 🤹Alyson Schafer’s new paradigm on parenting: 🔍 By Family Leadership Center ⏰ Stay Connected 📝 ⚖️
/episode/index/show/1df0422f-934c-48f6-b78a-06e56ca53c9a/id/35871110
info_outline
008: Skills for Life: The Power of Family Meetings Revealed: Interview with Alyson Schafer
03/13/2025
008: Skills for Life: The Power of Family Meetings Revealed: Interview with Alyson Schafer
Family Meeting: a multi-modal tool packed with lifeskills. Alyson Schafer shares valuable wisdom and strategies about Family Meetings–the terrific way to give every child a platform to be able to solve their problems. This form of family meeting answers these questions: How do we give voice to everyone in the family? How do parents demonstrate leadership so everyone can hear each other and work harmoniously together? If we want to move away from the hierarchy model, what replaces it? They key stance for this form of leadership: We’re all working towards this shared goal. We all bring our insights and wisdom. Mutual respect and social equality are our baseline. Everyone has value. In this form of leadership, we solve problems instead of discipline people. Leave energized and inspired to have a family meeting! Host: Marjie Longshore, Executive Director of , co-host of the CircleUP Podcast Guest: Alyson Schafer, a 3rd generation Adlerian and has earned the status of diplomate in Adlerian Psychology. She is a family counsellor and parenting expert and teaches and speaks internationally. At home in Canada, she is a media regular, hosts her own TV show as well as her podcast “Parenting The Adlerian Way”. Alyson has 3 parenting books with HarperCollins Canada: ; ; and . Support Family Leadership Center An Adlerian Non-Profit providing programs and education for parents ! Resources + links to her books Alyson’s videos of Family Meeting: Want to be notified when Family Leadership Center launches their new Family Meeting framework and Pocket Guide? Raising Kids Who Can by Betty Lou Bettner and Amy Lew: Stay Connected 📝 ⚖️
/episode/index/show/1df0422f-934c-48f6-b78a-06e56ca53c9a/id/35653535
info_outline
007: Raising Resilient Kids: the Power of Family Meetings, Part 2: Problem Solving
02/27/2025
007: Raising Resilient Kids: the Power of Family Meetings, Part 2: Problem Solving
In this episode, Marjie Longshore with her daughter, Louisa, explore how problem solving works in a family meeting. Problem Solving in Family Meeting is a practical way to help build a family life that is friendly, fun, and collaborative. Together, they talk through a strategy to help everyone in a family unit strengthen their problem solving muscles. This problem solving method is a form of collective surfacing–a practice that enables a group to let go of the form that isn’t working while holding tightly to the principles and values of the community. Instead of problems in the family resting on one person’s shoulders to carry and solve, this process sees the whole family as capable of contributing to the whole. Each person is empowered to lighten the load by turning challenges into opportunities to grow closer, more connected, and enjoy each other’s creativity and light! A strong community does not avoid conflict. In fact, conflict can actually be the catalyst to grow more connected and empowered together. This tool sets you up to deal with challenges–large and small–to convert them into opportunities where everyone grows more encouraged and stronger together. Hosts Marjie Longshore, Executive Director of Louisa Longshore, Special Guest and Family Meeting Expert Special thanks to editor Max Cotter and podcast collaborators Paige Trevor and Wendy Tracy. Donate 🎁🎁 Resources Raising Kids Who Can by Betty Lou Bettner and Amy Lew: More examples of Stay Connected 📝 ⚖️
/episode/index/show/1df0422f-934c-48f6-b78a-06e56ca53c9a/id/35462535
info_outline
006: Raising Resilient Kids: the Power of Family Meetings, Part 1
01/17/2025
006: Raising Resilient Kids: the Power of Family Meetings, Part 1
What if you could feel more connected to your kids and see more cooperation in your household in under 20 minutes a week? It’s possible through the power of Family Meetings! Create a weekly routine that is a one stop shop to foster and practice the (connect, capable, count, courage). Family Meetings work when they’re focused on encouragement, active listening and shared problem solving. In this episode, we break it down so you feel confident and motivated to start growing a more resilient, encouraged family this week! Hosts Marjie Longshore, Executive Director of Paige Trevor, Certified Parent Educator and Coach at More Support (includes family meeting support + set up Donate 🎁🎁 Resources Raising Kids Who Can by Betty Lou Bettner and Amy Lew: More examples of Stay Connected 📝 ⚖️
/episode/index/show/1df0422f-934c-48f6-b78a-06e56ca53c9a/id/34874835
info_outline
005: The Present of Your Presence: 1-on-1 Time with Your Child Boosts Confidence and Trust
12/13/2024
005: The Present of Your Presence: 1-on-1 Time with Your Child Boosts Confidence and Trust
Step into the magical art of spending one-on-one time with your children in this episode. Learn how just a few minutes a week can increase cooperation, reduce unwanted behavior, and remind you how much you like and enjoy your child. Tune in for practical advice on carving out these special moments and create lasting memories, even in the busiest of schedules. Hosts Marjie Longshore, Executive Director of Paige Trevor, Certified Parent Educator and Coach at Donate 🎁🎁 Resources💞Blog: ⚖️ Blog: ⏰ Special Time can SAVE you Time: Blog: Stay Connected 📝 ⚖️
/episode/index/show/1df0422f-934c-48f6-b78a-06e56ca53c9a/id/34355770
info_outline
004: Parenting Hacks: 10 Ways to Foster Cooperation Through Chores
12/03/2024
004: Parenting Hacks: 10 Ways to Foster Cooperation Through Chores
Are you tired of nagging, bribing, or arguing to get your kids to do their chores? You are not alone! We had great feedback on our last episode and we were inspired to create this special BONUS episode, where we dive into 10 practical and creative strategies to make chores a smoother (and even enjoyable!) experience for your family. Whether you’re dealing with toddlers, tweens, or teens, there’s something here to help turn resistance into cooperation! Hosts Marjie Longshore, Executive Director of Paige Trevor, Certified Parent Educator and Coach at Donate 🎁🎁 Resources 🧹 by Riki Intner and Lynn Lott 🧽: Chores and Training Blog 📝Want to learn more? Stay Connected 📝 ⚖️
/episode/index/show/1df0422f-934c-48f6-b78a-06e56ca53c9a/id/34257145
info_outline
003: Navigating Parenting and Screen Time: How to Create a Healthy Digital Environment
11/15/2024
003: Navigating Parenting and Screen Time: How to Create a Healthy Digital Environment
In this episode we’ve dared to wade into the murky depths of technology. Instead of being stuck or victimized by devices, we show you powerful ways to flip the script, get closer to your kids, and improve relationships. Rather than focusing on limits or taking devices away as punishment, consider what you might add in: a homemade pizza, a round of pickleball, or a quick game of cards. We talk about shifting focus from what is wrong to what is right. Technology is a defining topic for this generation of parents; today's episode provides a fresh perspective and small, doable suggestions to continue raising children who are capable and courageous. Hosts Marjie Longshore, Executive Director of Paige Trevor, Certified Parent Educator and Coach at Resources 🤝 📵 📰 ⭕ 4️⃣ Stay Connected 📝 ⚖️ Double Your Money! 💰 Your donation today will build stronger communities and could be doubled! Every gift makes a difference.
/episode/index/show/1df0422f-934c-48f6-b78a-06e56ca53c9a/id/33818842
info_outline
002: Chores Without Wars: Encouraging Responsibility and Cooperation in Kids
10/19/2024
002: Chores Without Wars: Encouraging Responsibility and Cooperation in Kids
In this episode, we’re diving into one of the biggest sources of frustration for parents—getting kids to do their chores. From daily responsibilities to teaching life skills, we’ll discuss the importance of chores. We’ll use the Family Leadership Center’s signature to not only get household chores done, but to really help our kids grow into capable, contributing, compassionate and courageous adults. What’s not to love?! Hosts Marjie Longshore, Executive Director of Paige Trevor, Certified Parent Educator and Coach at Resources In this episode, Marjie mentions an article from The New Times, entitled "12 Teenagers on What Adults Don’t Get About Their Lives." This article explores the challenges teens face and the fact that teens want their lives to turn out well, they want to be capable! When we give them chores, we’re giving them the possibility to grow their responsibility muscles and have what it takes to be successful in their futures. by age Family Leadership Center Balancing Act
/episode/index/show/1df0422f-934c-48f6-b78a-06e56ca53c9a/id/33481407
info_outline
001: Peace Begins at Home
09/19/2024
001: Peace Begins at Home
When we get stuck thinking the kids have to change so we can calm down, we often end up using relationship draining tools like nagging, yelling, or ignoring. In this podcast, we share relationship building skills to use in the moment of emotional upset and preventative strategies to avoid dysregulation in the future. For more from Family Leadership Center, find us online at
/episode/index/show/1df0422f-934c-48f6-b78a-06e56ca53c9a/id/33122802