Connected Parenting Minute

Will and CarrieAnn Standfest

A conversation about parenting with connection first, trauma informed principles. Listen in as Will and CarrieAnn Standfest discuss relationships with children who have joined their home through foster care, adoption, and birth. They are experienced parents, who want to share their 20 years of experience with you. To guide you into transforming your home into a less stressed, more connected place.

  1. 10/12/2025

    Fatherhood as Leadership, a Conversation with Ryan North (#40)

    In this thought-provoking episode of Connected Parenting Minute, Will Standfest and guest Ryan North delve into the profound impact of fatherhood and the legacy that comes with it. They reflect on the unique challenges fathers face, particularly in the context of parenting children from diverse backgrounds, including those from foster care and adoption. Will and Ryan discuss the importance of choosing who you want to be as a father, often starting with the decision of who you don’t want to emulate. They share personal stories and insights, emphasizing that while many men may define themselves in opposition to their fathers, it is crucial to establish a positive legacy for future generations. The conversation highlights the necessity of creating a nurturing environment where children can thrive, and how being intentional in parenting can lead to stronger family bonds. This episode serves as a reminder that parenting is a journey of growth, connection, and self-discovery. Tune in to hear valuable lessons on leadership within the family, the significance of communication, and the power of resilience in the face of challenges. Join Will and Ryan as they inspire fathers to embrace their roles with intention. For more content: Website: https://www.ConnectedParentingMinute.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ConnectedParentingMinute Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/connected.parenting.minute/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConnectedParentingMinute Email: ConnectedParentingMinute@gmail.com Episode Keywords: Fatherhood, Legacy, Parenting Strategies, Foster Care, Adoption, Family Dynamics, Emotional Connection, Leadership #connectedparenting #fatherhood #legacy #parentingstrategies #fostercare #adoption #familydynamics #emotionalconnection #leadership #parentingpodcast Music by: https://lesfm.net/ Show notes created by https://headliner.app

    27 min
  2. 26/11/2025

    Navigating Holidays: Expectations vs. Reality - (RE-RELEASE) (#39)

    In this engaging episode of the Connected Parenting Minute, Will and CarrieAnn Standfest delve into the complexities of managing expectations during the holiday season. With humor and insight, they explore how unmet expectations can lead to disappointment, especially during festive times when family dynamics are at play. The Standfests share personal anecdotes, including the challenges of blending family traditions and the humorous mishaps that have become cherished memories. Listeners are invited to reflect on their own holiday expectations and are encouraged to recognize, clarify, and create backup plans to manage them effectively. Will and CarrieAnn emphasize the importance of communication and flexibility, offering practical advice for navigating the holiday season with grace and connection. They remind us that shared experiences, even unexpected ones, are at the heart of family bonding. Tune in to discover how to transform expectations into hopes, and learn how to foster a more connected and joyful holiday experience for your family. This episode is filled with laughter, thoughtful insights, and actionable tips to help you embrace the holiday season with open hearts and open minds. For more content: Website: https://www.ConnectedParentingMinute.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ConnectedParentingMinute Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/connected.parenting.minute/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConnectedParentingMinute Email: ConnectedParentingMinute@gmail.com Episode Keywords: Holiday Expectations, Parenting Strategies, Family Traditions, Emotional Connection, Child Development, Family Dynamics, Parenting Podcast #connectedparenting #holidayexpectations #familytraditions #emotionalconnection #childdevelopment #familydynamics #parentingpodcast Music by: https://lesfm.net/ Show notes created by https://headliner.app

    28 min
  3. 12/11/2025

    Navigating Relationships: The Value of Community in Parenting - (#38)

    In this engaging episode of Connected Parenting Minute, hosts Will and CarrieAnn Standfest continue their "Road Thoughts" series, sharing their reflections while traveling to their annual family camp. As they journey from Colorado Springs to Westcliffe, they discuss the unique challenges and rewards of parenting within foster and adoptive families, emphasizing the importance of connection and community. Will and CarrieAnn highlight the significance of finding your "people"—those who truly understand your family's dynamics and struggles. They explore how shared experiences with other foster and adoptive families provide a sense of belonging and validation, reminding listeners that they are not alone in their parenting journey. The couple also reflects on the nature of friendships, discussing how some relationships may only last for a season, and the importance of being open to new connections as life evolves. This episode serves as a heartfelt reminder that while parenting can be challenging, the effort to build supportive relationships is invaluable. Join Will and CarrieAnn as they encourage listeners to embrace community and connection, one connected parenting minute at a time. For more content: Website: https://www.ConnectedParentingMinute.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ConnectedParentingMinute Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/connected.parenting.minute/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConnectedParentingMinute Email: ConnectedParentingMinute@gmail.com Episode Keywords: Foster Care, Adoption, Community, Connection, Parenting Challenges, Friendship, Family Dynamics, Shared Experiences #connectedparenting #fostercare #adoption #community #parentingchallenges #friendship #parentingpodcast Music by: https://lesfm.net/ Show notes created by https://headliner.app

    22 min
  4. 29/10/2025

    Road Trip Reflections: Embracing Change and Connection in Parenting - (#37)

    In this dynamic episode of Connected Parenting Minute, hosts Will and CarrieAnn Standfest embark on a unique "Road Trip Edition," sharing their thoughts and reflections while driving from Minneapolis to Denver. As they navigate the open road, they discuss the challenges and joys of parenting, particularly in the context of welcoming a new foster child into their home. Listeners will hear about the importance of giving children a voice in family decisions, the emotional complexities of integrating a new family member, and the valuable lessons learned from their experiences. Will and CarrieAnn emphasize the necessity of assuming the best in our children, even when faced with frustrating situations and misunderstandings. The couple also touches on the significance of communication and emotional regulation, highlighting how these skills can foster healthier relationships within the family. This episode serves as a reminder that parenting is not about perfection but about growth and connection, encouraging listeners to embrace the journey, one connected parenting minute at a time. For more content: Website: https://www.ConnectedParentingMinute.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ConnectedParentingMinute Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/connected.parenting.minute/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConnectedParentingMinute Email: ConnectedParentingMinute@gmail.com Episode Keywords: Foster Care, Family Dynamics, Communication, Emotional Regulation, Parenting Strategies, Assumption of Best Intentions, Connected Parenting #connectedparenting #fostercare #familydynamics #communication #parentingstrategies #emotionalregulation #parentingpodcast Music by: https://lesfm.net/ Show notes created by https://headliner.app

    24 min
  5. 15/10/2025

    Boundaries in Parenting - An Interview with Ryan North (#36)

    In this thought-provoking episode of Connected Parenting Minute, hosts Will and CarrieAnn Standfest welcome special guest Ryan North to discuss the vital topic of boundaries in parenting, particularly with teenagers. They delve into the question: Do our boundaries exist for our child's benefit or merely for our convenience? The conversation encourages parents to reflect on their motivations behind setting rules and how these decisions can impact their relationships with their children. Ryan shares his extensive experience as a foster parent and educator, emphasizing the importance of understanding that boundaries should protect rather than restrict. The trio explores how teenagers perceive rules and the necessity of flexibility in parenting, especially as children grow and mature. Listeners will gain valuable insights into creating a nurturing environment that fosters connection while still maintaining essential limits. Tune in for practical strategies to redefine boundaries in a way that promotes growth and understanding, reminding us all that parenting is a journey of continuous improvement, one connected parenting minute at a time. For more content: Website: https://www.ConnectedParentingMinute.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ConnectedParentingMinute Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/connected.parenting.minute/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConnectedParentingMinute Email: ConnectedParentingMinute@gmail.com Episode Keywords: Boundaries, Parenting, Teenagers, Connection, Flexibility, Foster Care, Parenting Strategies, Family Dynamics, Communication #connectedparenting #boundaries #teenagers #parentingstrategies #familydynamics #communication #parentingpodcast Music by: https://lesfm.net/ Show notes created by https://headliner.app

    29 min
  6. 08/10/2025

    Navigating Educational Choices: Key Questions for Every Parent - (#35)

    In this enlightening episode of Connected Parenting Minute, hosts Will and CarrieAnn Standfest share valuable insights from their recent workshop at the CAFO conference, focusing on educational options for children. They explore the fundamental questions parents should consider when choosing the right schooling path: Who am I? Who is my child? and What is the goal? The Standfests emphasize the importance of understanding one's own educational background and how it influences parenting choices, as well as recognizing the unique needs and strengths of each child. They discuss the complexities of education in the context of adoption and foster care, highlighting the need for flexibility and connection in decision-making. Listeners will gain practical strategies to navigate the diverse educational landscape, ensuring that their choices align with their family values and their child's individual needs. This episode serves as a reminder that while the journey of parenting may be challenging, each decision made with intention brings us one step closer to a more connected and peaceful home. For more content: Website: https://www.ConnectedParentingMinute.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ConnectedParentingMinute Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/connected.parenting.minute/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConnectedParentingMinute Email: ConnectedParentingMinute@gmail.com Episode Keywords: Education, Parenting, Adoption, Foster Care, Schooling Options, IEPs, Special Education, Connection, Family Dynamics, Parenting Strategies #connectedparenting #education #adoption #fostercare #schoolingoptions #parentingstrategies #familydynamics #parentingpodcast Music by: https://lesfm.net/ Show notes created by https://headliner.app

    25 min
  7. 01/10/2025

    Understanding Attachment Part 2: Embracing the Journey of Growth - (#34)

    In this engaging episode of Connected Parenting Minute, hosts Will and CarrieAnn Standfest delve into the significance of understanding attachment styles and their impact on our daily interactions. Building on their previous discussion, they emphasize that even during challenging times, it's essential to recognize these moments as temporary seasons rather than permanent setbacks. The Standfests highlight three key points throughout the episode: first, that the better we know ourselves, the better versions of ourselves we can become. By understanding our own histories and how they shape our perceptions, we can foster healthier relationships with our children and partners. Second, they remind listeners that growth is a gradual process; even small steps can lead to significant changes over time. Lastly, they explore the idea that hard doesn't equal bad, encouraging parents to embrace difficult conversations and situations as opportunities for connection and growth. Listeners will leave this episode equipped with practical insights and a renewed perspective on the complexities of parenting, reminding us all that we can improve, one connected parenting minute at a time. For more content: Website: https://www.ConnectedParentingMinute.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ConnectedParentingMinute Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/connected.parenting.minute/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConnectedParentingMinute Email: ConnectedParentingMinute@gmail.com Episode Keywords: Attachment Styles, Personal Growth, Parenting Strategies, Emotional Awareness, Difficult Conversations, Family Dynamics, Connected Parenting #connectedparenting #attachmentstyles #personalgrowth #difficultconversations #parentingstrategies #familydynamics #parentingpodcast Music by: https://lesfm.net/ Show notes created by https://headliner.app

    21 min
  8. 17/09/2025

    Attachment Matters: Insights for Every Parent - (#33)

    In this exciting season four premiere of Connected Parenting Minute Podcast, hosts Will and CarrieAnn Standfest dive deep into the essential topic of attachment. This episode unpacks the significance of attachment styles and how they shape our perspectives and interactions with the world around us. The Standfests share their insights and experiences, emphasizing that understanding attachment is crucial for all parents, whether biological or adoptive. Listeners will explore the profound impact of early caregiving on a child's attachment style, and how this foundational relationship influences their behavior and emotional responses throughout life. This episode also addresses the challenges faced by children who have experienced trauma, urging parents to approach their behaviors with curiosity and empathy. By recognizing the complexities of each child's past, caregivers can foster a nurturing environment that promotes healing and connection. Tune in to learn how to better understand attachment and create a more connected and peaceful home, one connected parenting minute at a time. For more content: Website: https://www.ConnectedParentingMinute.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ConnectedParentingMinute Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/connected.parenting.minute/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConnectedParentingMinute Email: ConnectedParentingMinute@gmail.com 🔑 Episode Keywords Attachment, Parenting, Trauma-Informed Principles, Connection First, Adoptive Parenting, Foster Care, Attachment Styles, Secure Attachment, Insecure Attachment, Child Development, Parenting Tips, Emotional Connection, Caregiver Response, Still Face Experiment, Childhood Trauma, Mirror Neurons, Earned Secure Attachment, Parenting Strategies, Understanding Behavior, Peaceful Home #connectedparenting #attachmentstyles #traumainformedcare #childdevelopment #emotionalconnection #familydynamics #parentingpodcast Music by: https://lesfm.net/ Show notes created by https://headliner.app

    22 min

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A conversation about parenting with connection first, trauma informed principles. Listen in as Will and CarrieAnn Standfest discuss relationships with children who have joined their home through foster care, adoption, and birth. They are experienced parents, who want to share their 20 years of experience with you. To guide you into transforming your home into a less stressed, more connected place.