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 dea...
Jun 27, 2024•19 min•Season 2Ep. 40
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 sha...
Jun 13, 2024•8 min•Season 2Ep. 39
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 find...
May 30, 2024•10 min•Season 2Ep. 38
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...
May 16, 2024•14 min•Season 2Ep. 37
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 religiou...
May 02, 2024•8 min•Season 2Ep. 36
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 interventio...
Apr 18, 2024•10 min•Season 2Ep. 35
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...
Apr 04, 2024•15 min•Season 2Ep. 34
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 reminisci...
Mar 21, 2024•11 min•Season 2Ep. 33
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 di...
Mar 07, 2024•8 min•Season 2Ep. 32
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 profess...
Feb 22, 2024•10 min•Season 2Ep. 31
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 pra...
Feb 07, 2024•56 min•Season 2Ep. 30
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 Son...
Jan 22, 2024•2 min
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, fam...
Jan 11, 2024•15 min•Season 2Ep. 29
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...
Dec 27, 2023•11 min•Season 2Ep. 28
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 wo...
Dec 13, 2023•8 min•Season 22Ep. 26
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, s...
Nov 29, 2023•11 min•Season 2Ep. 25
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 stren...
Nov 16, 2023•10 min•Season 2Ep. 25
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 powerf...
Oct 30, 2023•7 min•Season 2Ep. 24
The first season of the podcast has ended and we are diligently working on the second season but we want to hear from you- our faithful listeners. Share with us by texting SONS to 1.833.638.5442 what you would like to hear on season 2 of the podcast. Additionally, we are hosting our first ever Raising Sons brunch on October 21st in Houston. Join us if you want to engage in lively discussions centered around raising healthy, happy, and whole boys! Seats are limited, so get your tickets as soon as...
Oct 10, 2023•2 min
Welcome to today's powerful and essential episode with Dr. Richelle. Join us as she addresses the topic of what a mom should do when her son starts noticing girls. This episode is a valuable conversation starter for both mothers and their sons, as it navigates the changing landscape of dating in today's world. Are you openly talking to your son about girls? Dr. Richelle encourages mothers to initiate conversations about dating and relationships, guiding their sons through this important phase of...
Aug 02, 2023•8 min•Season 1Ep. 23
Welcome to today's powerful and essential episode, hosted by Dr. Richelle. Join us as she delves into the crucial topic of how to talk to your son about dealing with the police. In our current world, social media has exposed numerous injustices by the police, and we've witnessed heartbreaking instances where black men, including young men, have tragically not made it home. Have you had the conversation with your son about how to conduct themselves when approached or dealing with the police? Dr. ...
Jul 19, 2023•1 hr 14 min•Season 22Ep. 1
Welcome to today's thought-provoking episode, where Dr. Richelle delves into the crucial topic of teaching your child about racism, specifically focusing on sons. How do you approach the vital conversation about racism with your child? Dr. Richelle offers valuable insights and guidance on navigating this sensitive subject. She shares practical advice on addressing racism that your child may encounter or witness in society, highlighting the importance of fostering awareness and empathy. Additiona...
Jul 05, 2023•16 min•Season 1Ep. 21
In today's episode, Dr. Richelle discusses how to teach your son about money. How did you learn about money? Do you think you were prepared for managing money? Dr. Richelle provides helpful advice on how to introduce money habits and financial literacy to your son. This episode is very helpful and important for parents raising sons. Introducing the Raising Sons Manual: This manual was created to make hard conversations easier, to provide reflective thinking, and to offer tools and resources that...
Jun 21, 2023•17 min•Season 1Ep. 20
In today's episode, Dr. Richelle discusses how to build character in your teenage boys. How have you shown your son your character? What are some lessons you have taught your sons about character that they will carry with them throughout life? Dr. Richelle provides parents with examples and sound advice on how to build character in teenage boys. This episode is very helpful and important for parents raising sons. Introducing the Raising Sons Manual: This manual was created to make hard conversat...
Jun 07, 2023•13 min•Season 1Ep. 19
In today's episode, Dr. Richelle discusses how to show affection to your son without 'babying' him. As your son gets older, how you express love to him will need to be considered. Boys tend to feel embarrassed by excessive displays of affection from their parents in front of their peers. Dr. Richelle provides parents with sound advice on how to navigate expressions of affection with their sons as they grow older. This episode is very helpful and encouraging for parents raising sons. Introducing ...
May 24, 2023•13 min•Season 1Ep. 18
In today's episode, Dr. Richelle discusses what to do if your son is being bullied. This is a very serious topic that should be addressed in every household. There are multiple approaches to tackle this issue, both at home and at school. Dr. Richelle equips parents with the necessary tools to address this topic. This episode is highly informative and encouraging for parents raising sons. Introducing the Raising Sons Manual: This manual was created to make hard conversations easier, to provide re...
May 10, 2023•18 min
In today's episode, Dr. Richelle discusses how to talk to your son about puberty. Puberty is something we all experience, and it can be challenging to find the right words and the appropriate time to explain the important aspects of this stage. With the internet, school, and friends playing a role in exposing children to these topics at an early age, Dr. Richelle reassures parents that now is the right time to have these conversations, before they learn from unreliable sources. There are several...
Apr 26, 2023•14 min•Season 1Ep. 16
In today's episode, Dr. Richelle discusses how to talk to your son about death. Death is a natural part of life, yet it can be incredibly challenging to navigate. Finding the right words to comfort your sons when they face the concept of death can be difficult. Dr. Richelle shares a personal story of how she approached the conversation about the passing of a young man with her own son. There are multiple approaches to addressing this topic, and in this episode, Dr. Richelle encourages parents to...
Apr 12, 2023•10 min•Season 1Ep. 15
In today's episode, Dr. Richelle discusses how to raise Christian sons. Nurturing and guiding a child's faith can take various forms. Parents often employ creative methods to teach their children various school subjects, and introducing a child to God can be approached similarly. There are multiple ways to introduce your sons to God. In this episode, Dr. Richelle encourages parents to explore different approaches to involving their sons in the church and cultivating a personal relationship with ...
Mar 29, 2023•15 min•Season 1Ep. 14
In today's episode, Dr. Richelle discusses raising children with learning disabilities. When identifying that your child has a disability, you may experience a range of emotions. Along with these emotions, you may encounter unsolicited 'advice' from others. No one knows a child better than his or her parents. This episode is highly encouraging for parents of children with disabilities. You will come away from this episode with encouragement and strategies to support your child in their disabilit...
Mar 15, 2023•16 min•Season 1Ep. 13
