Have you ever held on to something long past the point it was serving you, because giving up felt like failure?

This week on Building Resilience, Leah shares an episode from therapist and parent educator Dawn Friedman, host of Tell Me It Will Be Okay. Part of a Mental Health Awareness Month podcast swap series, this episode explores a concept that might change the way you parent, heal, and relate to yourself: judicious giving up. With over 30 years of experience supporting children, teens, and families, Dawn brings a warm, research-informed perspective on why knowing when and how to let go is one of the most powerful skills a parent can develop.

She’ll explore:

Why "giving up" is not the same as failing and when it's actually the wisest move
How holding on too tightly to outcomes can fuel anxiety in both parents and children
The role of connection in creating lasting change in families
How to manage your own anxiety while supporting an anxious child
Why releasing unhelpful strategies opens the door to what actually works

About Dawn Friedman, MSEd

Dawn Friedman, MSEd, is the founder of Open Book Parenting, an online education and coaching platform for parents of anxious children and teens. A licensed clinical counselor, she has more than 30 years of experience working with children and families in educational, clinical, and community settings. Her background spans roles as a preschool teacher, school-age site director, family case manager, parent educator, and clinical counselor. She also holds post-graduate certification in Infant-Toddler Mental Health and has been featured on ABC Nightline and Good Morning America.

Her podcast, Tell Me It Will Be Okay, is the go-to conversation for parents of anxious kids who have read all the books, listened to all the experts, and still feel like something is missing.

Connect with Dawn: