What if you could transform your parenting style from a strict disciplinarian to a compassionate mentor? Join me, Donna Janel, and my guest, Ceez, a dedicated single father, as we unravel our journeys through parenthood, particularly focusing on the African-American community. With Father’s Day on the horizon, I share my own experiences of raising children and nieces without their fathers, and how the absence of a father figure posed unique challenges. Ceez, reveals his evolution from a tough, rule-enforcing dad to a nurturing, emotionally supportive parent, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and appreciating the efforts of single fathers.

Reflecting on the lessons imparted by our fathers, we discuss how old-school values and discipline have shaped us into who we are today. These values not only instilled a sense of responsibility but also inspired a commitment to mentoring youth in our communities. Personal anecdotes shed light on the powerful bond with our fathers, who showed love through actions rather than words, and how these early experiences have driven us to become positive role models in a time of rising community violence.

We also address the crucial role of both parents in a child's holistic development. Whether co-parenting through incarceration or combating the challenges posed by single parenting, the need for balanced and effective communication is paramount. Discover how traditional values can be integrated with modern, compassionate approaches to foster a well-rounded upbringing for our children. Join us as we celebrate fatherhood and continue our mission to restore the responsibility, nobility, and beauty in parenting.

Parents are the Bows and Children are the Arrows they will land wherever we aim them eventually!

Ever felt the weight of parenting, especially when life throws curveballs your way? I'm Donna Janel, and after a rejuvenating two-week hiatus filled with personal celebrations, I'm back to share my deeply personal journey of raising my niece, who has overcome immense challenges to graduate with honors and is now on her way to join the Marines. This episode is dedicated to all parents and guardians striving to equip their children with the right tools and trust needed for them to thrive and find their true paths.

As we venture into the core of this episode, we shift our focus to the pivotal role of fathers. The influence of an emotionally engaged father goes beyond traditional expectations, positively impacting areas like teenage pregnancies, school expulsion rates, and overall child development. Together, we challenge the notion that past generations were "just fine" without paternal emotional support, advocating instead for the transformative power of active fathering.

Finally, we address the critical issue of feeling rejected by one's family and the profound need for positive father figures. I emphasize the irreplaceable role fathers play in fostering emotional stability and self-worth in their children. For single moms, I urge the importance of finding secure male figures for their children and maintaining healthy co-parenting relationships. As we conclude, we reflect on the power of honest conversations in healing and the continuous effort required to create positive changes for our families. Let's celebrate and understand the invaluable contributions of fathers throughout this heartfelt month-long series.

Parents are the Bows and Children are the Arrows they will land wherever we aim them eventually!

As I navigated the highs and lows of parenting, from celebrating my daughter's military acceptance to grappling with teenage tribulations, my own triumph in becoming a registered nurse reminded me that our children are always watching, learning from our perseverance. It's this spirit of setting powerful examples that we carry into today's episode, where we're joined by the Finneys, innovators behind Lyrical Math, who have turned a classroom challenge into a hip-hop education sensation. Their story is not just about enhancing engagement; it's a testament to the transformative power of creative thinking and entrepreneurial drive in the world of learning.

Imagine a math class so compelling that students can't wait to participate, where equations flow to the rhythm of a beat. That's the reality Keziah and James Finney have created—with an initiative so impactful, it caught the attention of mathematics authority Dr. Karen Fuson. Our conversation dives into the magnetic draw of Lyrical Math and how it's reshaping the way families approach education. It's not just about making math fun; it's about crafting a learning experience that resonates on a personal level, building confidence, and fostering family bonds through the universal language of music.

In a time when the true academic level of our children can be clouded by the shadows of standardized testing and grade inflation, Lyrical Math emerges as a beacon for parents striving to reclaim control of their child's educational journey. This episode not only highlights the program's unique ability to reach kids from third to eighth grade but also its surprising utility for students beyond the classroom, even aiding parents in professional exams. We're excited to share how Lyrical Math is revolutionizing home learning, and we invite you to tune in and become part of this educational movement that's empowering families and changing the game.

Parents are the Bows and Children are the Arrows they will land wherever we aim them eventually!