Lessons From The Middle
Lessons from the Middle is a podcast for parents who want real conversations, not just generic parenting advice. Hosted by Ashley Osinski, a licensed school counselor, certified parent coach, and mom of three, this podcast blends expert insights with real-world parenting moments.
With over 13 years of experience working with thousands of families, Ashley offers practical strategies, thoughtful reflections, and honest discussions on raising emotionally healthy kids. Whether you’re navigating big emotions, sibling struggles, or school challenges, this podcast will help you feel more confident in your parenting.
✨ What you’ll find here:
- Meaningful conversations about parenting, childhood, and resilience
- Book inspired takeaways that blend personal growth with parenting wisdom
- Strategies for raising kind, confident, and emotionally aware kids
- A supportive space where you feel seen, heard, and encouraged
Parenting isn’t about perfection—it’s about connection. Grab your favorite beverage, tune in, and let’s figure this out together. 💛
Episodes
25 episodes
From Overscheduled to Intentional: A Real Talk on Kids' Activities and Mental Health
In this episode, Ashley Osinski discusses the balance of scheduling activities for children, emphasizing the importance of connection, rest, and fun. She reflects on her own childhood experiences and how they shape her parenting approach. The c...
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Season 1
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Episode 25
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16:45
How to Talk to Kids About Consent and Safety Without Fear
In this episode, Ashley Osinski discusses the critical importance of having tough conversations about sexual assault prevention, consent, and body boundaries with children. She emphasizes the need for parents to engage in these discussions earl...
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Season 1
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Episode 23
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21:09
Is Adolescence on Netflix Too Real? A Middle School Counselor's Take
In this episode, Ashley Osinski discusses the Netflix show 'Adolescence' and its relevance to today's youth, particularly focusing on the mental health challenges faced by teens. She emphasizes the multifaceted nature of these issues, including...
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Season 1
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Episode 22
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16:09
Building Resilient Kids: Why Schools Matter & Small Actions That Make a Big Impact
In this episode, Ashley Osinski discusses the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on children's development and the importance of resilience. She emphasizes the role of schools and community in fostering positive childhood experience...
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Season 1
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Episode 21
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8:37
Why Supporting Parents First Can Transform Kids’ Mental Health
In this episode, Ashley Osinski discusses the critical role of parental support in enhancing children's emotional wellbeing. She emphasizes that before seeking therapy for children, parents should focus on their own emotional health and learn e...
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Season 1
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Episode 20
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11:36
The Power Pause: Redefining Career, Motherhood & Identity
In this episode, Ashley Osinski discusses the empowering insights from the book 'The Power Pause' by Neha Ruch, which focuses on the importance of taking a career break after having children. She shares her personal journey of balancing work an...
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Season 1
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Episode 19
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12:50
Skating, Business, and Life: The Power of Reps, Resilience, and Risk-Taking
In this conversation, Ashley Osinski reflects on the life lessons learned from her children's experiences with ice skating and hockey. She draws parallels between the preparation, repetition, and commitment required in both sports and personal ...
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Season 1
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Episode 18
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12:21
Parenting & The Let Them Theory: What to Let Go and Where to Step In
In this conversation, Ashley Osinski delves into the complexities of parenting, particularly through the lens of Mel Robbins' Let Them Theory. She emphasizes the importance of allowing children to experience their emotions, make mistakes, and l...
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Season 1
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Episode 17
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10:40
Raising Boys Today: Emotional Growth, Challenges & How We Can Do Better
In this episode, Ashley Osinski reflects on the January Book of the Month, BoyMom, and discusses the challenges of raising boys in today's society, emphasizing the importance of emotional expression and the need for parents to provide support a...
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Season 1
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Episode 16
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14:31
The Power of Belonging: How School Counselors Support Every Child
In this episode, Ashley Osinski highlights the vital role of school counselors, especially during National School Counseling Week. She discusses the misconceptions surrounding the profession, the importance of school counselors in supporting st...
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Episode 15
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10:33
Decoding Dysregulation: Beyond Meltdowns & Understanding Freeze/Fawn
In this episode of Lessons from the Middle, Ashley Osinski explores the concept of nervous system regulation, emphasizing the importance of understanding emotional regulation in parenting. She discusses the connection between behavior and the n...
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Season 1
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Episode 14
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11:04
Understanding Sensitivity: Building Resilience in Our Kids
In this episode of Lessons from the Middle, Ashley Osinski discusses the concept of sensitivity in children, particularly focusing on how it affects their behavior and emotional regulation. She shares personal anecdotes about her experiences wi...
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Season 1
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Episode 13
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11:41
Dandelions, Tulips, and Orchids: Understanding Your Child's Temperament to Help Them Thrive
In this conversation, Ashley Osinski discusses the complexities of parenting, particularly when dealing with children of varying temperaments. She shares personal experiences with her own children, highlighting the differences in their emotiona...
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Season 1
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Episode 12
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11:08
Children Do Well If They Can: How This Simple Shift Transforms Parenting
In this episode of Lessons from the Middle, Ashley Osinski discusses the challenges of parenting, especially during the transition back to school after winter break. She emphasizes the importance of understanding children's behavior through the...
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Season 1
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Episode 11
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8:38
Balance Made Simple: A New Year Reset for Moms
Follow along here: New Year, More Balance Worksheet (link at the end to share your goals with me!) In this episode, Ashley Osinski discusses the concept of balance, particularly ...
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Season 1
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Episode 10
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9:58
Top 3 Ways for Moms to Stress Less and Find More Joy This Holiday Season
In this episode, Ashley Osinski discusses how to navigate the holiday season with less stress and more joy, particularly for moms. She emphasizes the importance of embracing high standards with low expectations, setting boundaries, practicing g...
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Season 1
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14:08
Santa, the Elf, and Holiday Magic—No Naughty List Required
In this episode,I discuss how to navigate the holiday season with children by rethinking traditional narratives around Santa and the elf, empowering kids through body boundaries, and shifting perspectives on behavior and rewards. I emphasize th...
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13:23
Mindful Tech Parenting, Ep 3: Gender and Tech
In this final episode of the 3-part tech series, Ashley discusses the significant impact of gender on technology use among children, particularly focusing on the differences between girls and boys. She highlights the decline in confidence among...
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Season 1
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Episode 7
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13:23
Mindful Tech Parenting, Ep 2: Tech Boundaries
In this conversation, Ashley Osinski discusses the importance of setting boundaries around technology use for children. She emphasizes the need for age-appropriate access to devices, the impact of social media on mental health, and the signific...
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Season 1
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Episode 6
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15:34
Mindful Tech Parenting, Ep 1: Family Tech Tips
In this first episode of a 3 part series, Ashley Osinski discusses the significant impact of technology on mental health, particularly for children. She shares insights from her experience working with middle school students and offers practica...
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Season 1
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Episode 5
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16:10
Prioritize Yourself, Prioritize Your Family
In this episode, Ashley shares her personal journey of motherhood and the critical importance of self-care. She reflects on her upbringing, the challenges of parenting three young children, and the lessons learned about prioritizing her own wel...
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Season 1
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Episode 4
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16:46
Discover Your Unique Parenting Style
Parenting Styles FREE Quiz: www.ashleyoparentcoach.com/parenting-styles-quizIn this episode, I delve into the fascinating world of parenting styles. Learn about the four...
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Season 1
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Episode 3
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12:07
The Goldilocks Parenting Approach
In this episode of Lessons from the Middle, host Ashley Osinski dives into the world of parenting styles, exploring the Goldilocks approach. Discover the pitfalls of authoritarian and permissive parenting, and learn how to strike a balance that...
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Season 1
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Episode 2
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15:22
From Counselor to Parent Coach: A Journey Of Support
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the ups and downs of parenting? Join Ashley Osinski, a seasoned educator and parent coach, as she shares her insights and strategies for raising confident, compassionate, and resilient children.In this firs...
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Season 1
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Episode 1
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13:35
Lessons From The Middle Trailer
Are you concerned about your child's mental health? As parents, we often feel overwhelmed by the pressures of raising children in today's world. But the good news is, there's so much we can do to support our kids and create a mentally healthy f...
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Season 1
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Episode 1
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1:34