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A Time to Sharpen

A Time to Sharpen

By: Axel Liimatta & Brandon Maxwell
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About this listen

A bi-weekly podcast that examines how working with teenagers can make us better versions of ourselves: better teachers, better counselors, better parents…better people. Join two of Whetstone Boys Ranch's co-founders, Axel Liimatta and Brandon Maxwell, as they discuss what twenty years of serving struggling teenagers and their families has taught them about how to address the most challenging of behaviors. You'll find answers without dogma, encouragement without false hope, and sharpening without shame. Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/time-to-sharpen/supportAxel Liimatta & Brandon Maxwell Parenting & Families Relationships
Episodes
  • Harvard-Bound
    Aug 20 2025

    It’s not everyday that a former student of yours says that he’s been accepted to Harvard Law School - or every year...or every lifetime! But recently, Whetstone was honored by the news that one of its graduates has done just that.

    Join us this week on A Time to Sharpen for an in-depth discussion with our friend and colleague, Kiernan the Wise. That’s not his actual name, but after listening to this podcast, I think you’ll agree that the moniker fits.

    By God’s grace, Kiernan was able to turn things around during his 6 and a half months at Whetstone and get going in the right direction. And while this is a feat all by itself, he was able to keep things going far past the point that most people would think possible. It’s an inspiring story, and every bit of the 90 minute conversation is true. So get comfortable, or start folding that laundry so that you can focus your attention on what he has to say.


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    1 hr and 34 mins
  • Sleep Matters
    Jul 31 2025

    Sleep is the secret weapon most of us are too tired to use. We hustle, grind, and caffeinate our way through exhaustion, ignoring the one thing our minds and bodies need most.

    In this episode of A Time to Sharpen, we explore why sleep isn’t a luxury—it’s a lifeline. From better mood and focus to healing trauma and building resilience, quality sleep plays a vital role in personal growth, especially for the boys at Whetstone.

    Whether you're a parent, educator, or just running on fumes, this conversation will remind you: rest isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom.


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    41 mins
  • Neurodivergence
    Jul 14 2025

    We all think differently. But some of us think more differently than others…if that makes sense. Maybe it doesn’t. I don’t know.

    Which is why we invited Jonathan Page to talk with us about the very important, complex,, and sometimes uncomfortable topic of neurodivergence in our society and at Whetstone. From Autism to Tourette’s, to OCD and ADHD, we’ve seen it all in the 14 years and 150+ residents we’ve served since 2011.

    Mr. Page, which is what the boys call him, has learned the hard way about how to embrace his Autism instead of running and hiding from it in shame. His story is an inspiring one, and one that has a lasting impact on Whetstone staff and residents.

    Join us this week on A Time to Sharpen for an honest conversation that invites us all to listen more carefully, to judge less quickly, and to honor the image of God reflected in every individual—regardless of how their mind may work.


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    49 mins
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