Ground Control Parenting with Carol Sutton Lewis

Carol Sutton Lewis sits down with Mellody Hobson—co-CEO of Ariel Investments, and author of the new children’s book Priceless Facts About Money: From the Beginning of Time to the Coins in Your Couch. In this engaging and fun conversation, Mellody explains why parents should talk with their kids about money early and often, and shares practical tips for teaching them financial independence and responsibility.Mellody and Carol discuss:The importance of using cash to teach young children about the value of money.How Mellody’s childhood shaped her financial mindset.Advice for parents on allowances, savings, and smart credit habits.Why understanding and talking about money matters is important for every family—regardless of income level.These highlights offer just a taste of their conversation—there's much more waiting for you in the episode. Tune in to hear the wisdom, humor, and down-to-earth advice Mellody shares with Carol so you can prepare your kids (and even yourself) for financial success!Follow us @GroundControlparenting or at groundcontrolparenting.comAnd don’t forget to subscribe to the Substack newsletter for behind-the-scenes info, bonus parenting tips, and more!.

Join Carol for a recap of Season 6, which offered parenting advice and expertise across all five stages of child development, from newborns to the grown and flown.  Carol revisits highlights from conversations with her incredible lineup of Season 6 guests. Tune in for expert advice, practical tips, and inspiring stories to empower you on your parenting journey. If you missed any episodes this season, this rewind is your perfect guide to catch up.And stay tuned for exciting bonus episodes coming your way soon! Follow us @GroundControlparenting or at groundcontrolparenting.comAnd don’t forget to subscribe to the Substack newsletter for behind-the-scenes info, bonus parenting tips, and more!.

Parenting, mental health, and finding your way in a complicated world—Emmy and Tony-winning actor Courtney B. Vance covers it all in this powerful conversation with Carol.Courtney reflects on his Detroit upbringing, the sacrifices his parents made for his education, and how those lessons shape how he and his wife, (the one and only Angela Bassett), have raised their twins who are now off at college. He shares how they’ve kept their kids grounded despite growing up in the spotlight, and how he’s navigating the balance of letting go while still being there to support them.Courtney talks with Carol about his new book, The Invisible Ache: Black Men Identifying Their Pain and Reclaiming Their Power, co-written with Dr. Robin Smith. He reveals the devastating impact of his father’s death, how therapy helped him heal, and why breaking the stigma around mental health in the Black community is so critical.Whether you’ve long admired Courtney on stage and screen or are meeting him here for the first time, this conversation is packed with relatable parenting moments, inspiring stories, and advice you can use. Tune in for his reflections on finding purpose, staying open to life’s possibilities, and helping kids thrive.Follow us at @GroundControlParenting and on groundcontrolparenting.com!And don’t forget to subscribe to the Substack newsletter for behind-the-scenes info, bonus parenting tips, and more!.

This week Carol welcomes two of her two longtime friends Crystal McCrary McGuire and Anne Williams-Isom for a lively and enriching group chat about the highs and challenges of raising their children (all nine of them!) with intention and care. Together, they reflect on the power of parenting conversations, balancing generational influences, and adapting their parenting styles to fit each child’s unique needs.In this heartfelt discussion you’ll hear about:The importance of leading with values when raising children.How to nurture individuality while creating a strong family foundation.Crystal’s experience raising a spirited firstborn and the lessons learned.Anne’s reflections on parenting with emotional intelligence and fostering vulnerability.The skill of practicing restraint as a parent.The lasting impact of generational wisdom and support This episode is packed with wisdom, laughter, and moments that will leave you inspired to parent with purpose.  Tune in, share with a friend, and join the conversation!Follow us at @GroundControlParenting and on groundcontrolparenting.com.And don’t forget to subscribe to the Substack newsletter for behind-the-scenes info, bonus parenting tips, and more!.