College, Curves, and Letting Go: A Conversation with Harlan Cohen
Fri Feb 06 2026
Send us an email @ info@parentcoachesunleashed.com
Summary
In this episode of Parent Coaches Unleashed, hosts Carrie Wiesenfeld and Jessica Anger welcome Harlan Cohen, a New York Times bestselling author and expert on the college experience. The conversation delves into the unique challenges students face as they transition to college, the role of parents in supporting their children, and the importance of resilience in the face of rejection. Harlan shares valuable insights on how parents can guide their children through this pivotal time, emphasizing the need for open communication, understanding, and patience. The discussion also touches on the significance of building relationships with professors, navigating loneliness, and embracing the curvy paths that each student's journey may take. Harlan's practical advice and personal anecdotes provide a roadmap for parents and students alike, making this episode a must-listen for anyone preparing for the college experience.
Takeaways
Harlan Cohen emphasizes the importance of meeting kids where they are in their unique experiences.Parents should focus on guiding their children rather than directing them.Understanding that struggles belong to the child while victories belong to the parent can help maintain a healthy dynamic.The first year of college is often filled with loneliness, and it's crucial to prepare students for this reality.Rejection is a natural part of life, and learning to cope with it is essential for personal growth.Students should approach new experiences with curiosity rather than a need to be accepted.Building relationships with professors can significantly impact a student's success.Parents should allow their children to experience natural consequences to foster independence.The college experience is not just about academics; social and emotional aspects are equally important.Every child's journey is different, and comparisons can be detrimental.Contact Harlan Cohen
Instagram: @harlancohen
Facebook: @helpmeharlan
Tik Tok: @helpmeharlan
Podcast: The Harlan Cohen Podcast
www.harlancohen.com
Books:
The Naked Roommate: And 107 Other Issues You Might Run Into in College
Win or Learn: The Naked Truth About Turning Every Event into Your Ultimate Success
The Happiest Kid on Campus
Getting Naked: Five Steps to Finding the Love of Your Life (While Fully Clothed ans Sober)
Dad's Expecting Too: Expectant Fathers, Expectant Mothers, New Dads and New Moms Share Advice
🔗 Connect with Jessica Anger and Carrie Wiesenfeld:
Instagram | info@parentcoachesunleashed.com
Soaring Hawk Life Coaching | Ocean Waves Parenting
More
Send us an email @ info@parentcoachesunleashed.com Summary In this episode of Parent Coaches Unleashed, hosts Carrie Wiesenfeld and Jessica Anger welcome Harlan Cohen, a New York Times bestselling author and expert on the college experience. The conversation delves into the unique challenges students face as they transition to college, the role of parents in supporting their children, and the importance of resilience in the face of rejection. Harlan shares valuable insights on how parents can guide their children through this pivotal time, emphasizing the need for open communication, understanding, and patience. The discussion also touches on the significance of building relationships with professors, navigating loneliness, and embracing the curvy paths that each student's journey may take. Harlan's practical advice and personal anecdotes provide a roadmap for parents and students alike, making this episode a must-listen for anyone preparing for the college experience. Takeaways Harlan Cohen emphasizes the importance of meeting kids where they are in their unique experiences.Parents should focus on guiding their children rather than directing them.Understanding that struggles belong to the child while victories belong to the parent can help maintain a healthy dynamic.The first year of college is often filled with loneliness, and it's crucial to prepare students for this reality.Rejection is a natural part of life, and learning to cope with it is essential for personal growth.Students should approach new experiences with curiosity rather than a need to be accepted.Building relationships with professors can significantly impact a student's success.Parents should allow their children to experience natural consequences to foster independence.The college experience is not just about academics; social and emotional aspects are equally important.Every child's journey is different, and comparisons can be detrimental.Contact Harlan Cohen Instagram: @harlancohen Facebook: @helpmeharlan Tik Tok: @helpmeharlan Podcast: The Harlan Cohen Podcast www.harlancohen.com Books: The Naked Roommate: And 107 Other Issues You Might Run Into in College Win or Learn: The Naked Truth About Turning Every Event into Your Ultimate Success The Happiest Kid on Campus Getting Naked: Five Steps to Finding the Love of Your Life (While Fully Clothed ans Sober) Dad's Expecting Too: Expectant Fathers, Expectant Mothers, New Dads and New Moms Share Advice 🔗 Connect with Jessica Anger and Carrie Wiesenfeld: Instagram | info@parentcoachesunleashed.com Soaring Hawk Life Coaching | Ocean Waves Parenting