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
Family Dynamics and Changing Roles
As your child grows, your family dynamics shift. In this heartfelt episode, Principal Bill Renner explores what it really means when your middle schooler starts pulling away—and how you can stay connected even as your role changes.
💡 In this episode, you’ll learn:
- How to transition from manager to mentor
- Ways to create new connection points as a family
- Why it’s okay to grieve the old roles—and embrace the new
- Practical scripts for navigating “the pull” with confidence
💬 They’re not moving away from you, they’re moving toward themselves.