Is your son suddenly struggling at school? On this episode of the Raising Sons Podcast, Dr. Richelle Whittaker dives deep into the hidden reasons behind behavioral changes in Black boys.

Using a real-world case study of a mother concerned about her son’s "acting out," Dr. Whittaker breaks down why we must stop labeling our children and start looking at their environment. We explore the reality of adultification bias, the importance of emotional safety, and why a "bad fit" school can be detrimental to a child's development.

• A change in behavior is information. It's language. It's not a moral failure.
• Your child's resistance may be a response to feeling for a better fit.
• The right environment can reduce behavior without a single punishment.
• This isn't about lowering expectations. It's about aligning expectations.
• If school calls feel constant, your son is not broken.
• Advocating for him is not optional. It's essential.
• When Black boys are given space to be boys, they thrive.
• Legacy isn't just about famous people; it's about current safety.
• Correction replaces curiosity, control replaces connection.
• Sometimes the most powerful intervention is changing the environment.

If you’re unsure whether your son’s school environment aligns with who he is and how he learns, let's talk. Book a Parent Roadmap Session here: https://www.richellewhittaker.com/workwithme

Text 1.833.638.5442 to share your comments or ask questions

Subscribe to the newsletter for exclusive tips and updates: http://bit.ly/3F3VpqA

Resources:

• Strong Men Start Here – Dr. Richelle’s book for moms raising sons
• Boy Mom Nation – Join the community for support and strategies
• New YouVersion Devotional

Connect with Dr. Richelle:

YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/@drrichellewhittaker

Instagram: @dr_richelle

LinkedIn: Dr. Richelle Whittaker

Website: www.richellewhittaker.com/podcast

Follow the movement: #RaisingSons #BoyMomNation #StrongMenStartHere #DrRichelleWhittaker

TEXT 1.833.638.5442 to share your comments or ask questions

Is an all-boys school the right environment for your son? If you’ve noticed your son disengaging, acting out, or struggling to sit still in a traditional classroom, it might not be him, it might be the environment.

In this episode of Raising Sons, Dr. Richelle Whittaker, educational psychologist, parenting strategist, and boy mom breaks down the science of how boys learn. We explore why single-sex education is a powerful solution for many families and how it addresses the unique way boys develop, communicate, and grow.

This isn’t about "one size fits all" education; it’s about research-backed insights into the male brain and academic engagement. If you are a mom raising sons and questioning if his current school is a good fit, this conversation is for you.

Key Insights You’ll Learn Today:

• The "Freedom to Be": Why boys drop the social mask in all-boys environments.
• Developing a Voice: How single-sex schools build deep confidence in young men.
• The Power of Male Educators: Why having male role models changes how a boy's behavior is interpreted.
• Kinesthetic Learning: Why movement-based and project-based learning is essential for active boys.
• The Research: What the data actually says about boys' school engagement and success rates.
• 
  

This episode is a must-watch if:

• You are a Boy Mom exploring alternatives to traditional co-ed education.
• Your son is shutting down or "acting out" in his current classroom.
• You want professional guidance on school choice without the guilt or pressure.
• 
  

If you’re unsure whether your son’s school environment aligns with who he is and how he learns, let's talk. Book a Parent Roadmap Session here: https://www.richellewhittaker.com/workwithme

Subscribe to the newsletter for exclusive tips and updates: http://bit.ly/3F3VpqA

Resources:

• Strong Men Start Here – Dr. Richelle’s book for moms raising sons
• Boy Mom Nation – Join the community for support and strategies
• New YouVersion Devotional

Connect with Dr. Richelle:

Instagram: @dr_richelle

LinkedIn: Dr. Richelle Whittaker

Website: www.richellewhittaker.com/podcast

Follow the movement: #RaisingSons #BoyMomNation #StrongMenStartHere #DrRichelleWhittaker

What does it truly take to reach young men in the classroom today?

On this episode, we sit down with Mr. Thomas, a dedicated first-year principal at an all-boys school in Houston, Texas. We explore his unique journey from working with Child Protective Services (CPS) to leading a school, and how his background in social work has shaped his approach to student success.

Mr. Thomas dives deep into the specific challenges and rewards of educating boys. From navigating socio-economic barriers to breaking down societal pressures, this conversation covers the vital importance of male role models and the need for a shift from punitive discipline to effective communication.

Whether you are an educator, a parent of a son, or a community leader, this episode offers powerful insights into accountability, fatherhood, and building a village around our youth.

In This Conversation, We Cover:

• The transition from social work to school administration.
• The psychology behind teaching boys vs. girls.
• Strategies for engaging middle school vs. high school students.
• Why "punishment" often fails and "communication" succeeds.
• The critical role of parent accountability.

Key Takeaways

• Diverse Experience Matters: Mr. Thomas uses his history in high-need schools and CPS to identify the root causes of student behavior.
• The "Boy" Dynamic: Boys require specific engagement strategies that differ significantly from co-ed environments.
• Mentorship is Key: For boys from single-parent households, the presence of consistent male figures at school is often a game-changer.
• Communication First: Effective discipline isn't about control; it's about understanding the "why" behind the behavior.

Time Stamps

00:00 Introduction to Mr. Thomas and His Journey

02:57 Transitioning into Education: A Personal Story

06:04 Understanding the All-Boys School Environment

08:56 The Unique Challenges of Educating Boys

12:02 The Role of Accountability in Success

14:57 The Importance of Male Role Models

17:46 Engagement Challenges in Middle vs. High School

21:09 Discipline and Communication in Education

23:52 Conclusion and Reflections on Education

Join Boy Mom Nation- The Community: https://bit.ly/JoinBoyMomNation

Schedule your Parent Roadmap Session: https://www.richellewhittaker.com/workwithme

Subscribe to the newsletter for exclusive tips and updates: http://bit.ly/3F3VpqA

Follow the movement: #RaisingSons #BoyMomNation #StrongMenStartHere #DrRichelleWhittaker

Resources:

• Strong Men Start Here – Dr. Richelle’s book for moms raising sons
• Boy Mom Nation – Join the community for support and strategies
• YouVersion Devotional

Connect with Dr. Richelle:

Instagram: @dr_richelle

LinkedIn: Dr. Richelle Whittaker

Website: www.richellewhittaker.com/podcast

Are you worried your son is pulling away or struggling to express his emotions? In this episode of the Raising Sons Podcast, host Dr. Richelle Whittaker dives deep into the essential art of creating a "safe space" for boys in a world that often tells them to "man up."

We tackle the tough realities of modern parenting, including the rising threat of sextortion and how societal pressures impact a boy’s mental health. Whether you are navigating the toddler years or the teenage transition, Dr. Whittaker provides a roadmap for intentional parenting and emotional intelligence.

• The Power of Listening: How to listen without judgment so your son actually opens up.
• Combatting Toxic Masculinity: Breaking down the barriers that stop boys from sharing their feelings.
• Sextortion Awareness: Practical steps to protect your son from online predators and digital threats.
• Building Connection: Simple ways to be present and engage in meaningful conversations daily.
• Boy Mom Nation: An introduction to a community designed specifically to support mothers raising the next generation of men.

Join Boy Mom Nation- The Community: https://bit.ly/JoinBoyMomNation

Schedule your Parent Roadmap Session: https://www.richellewhittaker.com/workwithme

Subscribe to the newsletter for exclusive tips and updates: http://bit.ly/3F3VpqA

Follow the movement: #RaisingSons #BoyMomNation #StrongMenStartHere #DrRichelleWhittaker

Resources:

• Strong Men Start Here – Dr. Richelle’s book for moms raising sons
• Boy Mom Nation – Join the community for support and strategies
• YouVersion Devotional

Connect with Dr. Richelle:

Instagram: @dr_richelle

LinkedIn: Dr. Richelle Whittaker

Website: www.richellewhittaker.com/podcast

On this would be episode of the podcast, Dr. Richelle talks about the importance of rest, especially during the holiday season. Take heed and follow her suggestions to take some time to rest- do nothing- for whatever amount of time you can set aside to do so. Stay tuned for the next episode and all the activities connected with the Raising Sons movement!

Helpful Links:

Text Raising Sons to 1.833.638.5442 to ask questions, share your thoughts, or to request a link to purchase the book

Schedule your Parent Roadmap Session: https://www.richellewhittaker.com/workwithme

Subscribe to the newsletter for exclusive tips and updates: http://bit.ly/3F3VpqA

Follow the movement: #RaisingSons #BoyMomNation #StrongMenStartHere #DrRichelleWhittaker

Resources:

• Strong Men Start Here – Dr. Richelle’s book for moms raising sons
• Boy Mom Nation – Join the community for support and strategies
• YouVersion Devotional

Connect with Dr. Richelle:

Instagram: @dr_richelle

LinkedIn: Dr. Richelle Whittaker

Website: www.richellewhittaker.com/podcast

On this episode of the Raising Sons podcast, Dr. Richelle Whittaker discusses the importance of unraveling assumptions in parenting, particularly as they relate to raising boys. She emphasizes how past traumas and experiences can shape parenting styles and beliefs. Dr. Whittaker provides actionable steps for parents to acknowledge their beliefs, understand their origins, and take small daily actions to challenge and change these beliefs for healthier parenting outcomes.

Takeaways

-Unraveling assumptions is crucial in parenting.

-We bring our own traumas into parenting.

-Moms can and sometimes do project their past experiences onto their sons.

-Boys have emotions, just like everyone else.

-Acknowledging a problem is the first step to change.

-Understanding the origins of beliefs helps in addressing them.

-Taking action is essential for personal growth.

-Small daily actions can lead to significant changes.

-Healing is a journey, not a destination.

-Support systems are vital for navigating parenting challenges.

Helpful Links:

Text Raising Sons to 1.833.638.5442 to ask questions, share your thoughts, or to request a link to purchase the book

Schedule your Parent Roadmap Session: https://www.richellewhittaker.com/workwithme

Subscribe to the newsletter for exclusive tips and updates: http://bit.ly/3F3VpqA

Follow the movement: #RaisingSons #BoyMomNation #StrongMenStartHere #DrRichelleWhittaker

Resources:

• Strong Men Start Here – Dr. Richelle’s book for moms raising sons
• Boy Mom Nation – Join the community for support and strategies
• YouVersion Devotional

Connect with Dr. Richelle:

Instagram: @dr_richelle

LinkedIn: Dr. Richelle Whittaker

Website: www.richellewhittaker.com/podcast

On this follow-up to Episode 1 (“From Overwhelmed to Empowered”), we dive deeper into what actually happens after a child receives a diagnosis, using a real case study from a mom whose 3-year-old son was recently diagnosed with autism.

If you’ve ever felt confused, scared, or unsure about the next steps after a diagnosis, this episode breaks down the process in a clear and compassionate way.

In today’s conversation, we discuss:

• What to do immediately after receiving a diagnosis
• What an IEP looks like for toddlers and why 504 plans typically come later
• How school services work for 3-year-olds
• How to handle the fear of sending your child on the school bus
• The step-by-step roadmap every parent needs
• How to advocate confidently even when you feel overwhelmed
• 
  

This episode is designed to help moms move from confusion to clarity and to remind you that you are not alone in this journey.

Helpful Links:

Text Raising Sons to 1.833.638.5442 to ask questions, share your thoughts, or to request a link to purchase the book

Schedule your Parent Roadmap Session: https://www.richellewhittaker.com/workwithme

Subscribe to the newsletter for exclusive tips and updates: http://bit.ly/3F3VpqA

Get the book: https://bit.ly/strongmenstarthere

Follow the movement: #RaisingSons #BoyMomNation #StrongMenStartHere #DrRichelleWhittaker

Connect with Dr. Richelle:

Instagram: @dr_richelle

LinkedIn: Dr. Richelle Whittaker

Website: www.richellewhittaker.com/podcast

On this episode of the Raising Sons Podcast, Dr. Richelle Whittaker discusses the challenges parents face after receiving a diagnosis for their child, particularly autism. She emphasizes the confusion that often follows a diagnosis and the importance of understanding special education services like IEPs and 504 plans. Dr. Whittaker encourages parents to advocate for their children with clarity and confidence, reminding them that they are not alone in this journey. The episode aims to empower parents by providing insights and support to navigate the complexities of the educational system and to foster a better understanding of their child's needs.

Takeaways

Getting a diagnosis isn't the hardest part.

The hardest part is figuring out what to do after it.

Parents are often left trying to make sense of terms like IEP and 504.

You can't advocate with confidence until you first understand.

The diagnosis doesn't define the child, it describes how they learn.

Advocacy is about walking in with clarity and confidence.

You're not behind; a diagnosis gives insight into support.

You have rights and options regarding special education services.

Getting help isn't weakness; it's wisdom.

You're not failing; you're learning.

Text Raising Sons to 1.833.638.5442 to ask questions, share your thoughts, or to request a link to purchase the book

Schedule your Parent Roadmap Session: https://www.richellewhittaker.com/workwithme

Subscribe to the newsletter for exclusive tips and updates: http://bit.ly/3F3VpqA

Get the book: https://bit.ly/strongmenstarthere

Follow the movement: #RaisingSons #BoyMomNation #StrongMenStartHere #DrRichelleWhittaker

Text Raising Sons to 1.833.638.5442 to ask questions, share your thoughts, or to request a link to purchase the book

Follow me:

IG: @dr_richelle

YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/@drrichellewhittaker