Middle School Mayhem - Surviving Our Kids' Awkward Years
Middle school—where eye-rolls are frequent, moods change faster than Wi-Fi connections, and “What’s for dinner?” is somehow a daily emergency.
If you’re parenting a 7th or 8th grader, you know this stage is equal parts challenging and exciting—for both of you. That’s where Middle School Mayhem comes in.
Each week, Bill Renner—middle school principal, dad, husband, and awkward-years survivor—shares practical tips and real-life insights to help you navigate this wild ride. We’ll talk about academic success, social and emotional growth, friendships, technology, resilience… and yes, those cringe-worthy school dances.
Whether you’re looking for strategies to help your child thrive or you need reassurance that the chaos is normal, this podcast will give you both the how-to and the you-got-this. Expect actionable advice you can use immediately—and a few funny stories to remind you that you’re not alone.
So buckle up, bring your sense of humor, and join us as we survive—and maybe even enjoy—these awkward years… together.
Middle School Mayhem - Surviving Our Kids' Awkward Years
Developing Effective Communication Strategies with Your Middle Schooler
I’m someone who has heard the phrase “You don’t understand!” more times than I care to count.
In today’s episode: Developing Effective Communication Strategies with Your Middle Schooler, also known as...Why Are You Yelling? I’m Right Here, you'll learn that communication during the middle school years can feel like trying to decode a secret language—muffled through the door of a locked bedroom. Principal Bill Renner shares stories, strategies, and tips to help parents turn “I don’t know” into honest conversations.
✨ Learn how to:
- Ask better questions
- Pick the right time to talk
- Avoid the “fix it” trap
- Embrace silence as a form of connection
💬 “Sometimes the best time to talk is not when you want to—it’s when they’re ready.”