It is hard to believe that it’s already been two years since we last spoke with Vanessa Van Petten, author of You’re Grounded! In our June 2009 interview, Vanessa shared the reason behind the book: she knew she wasn’t the only teen tired of fighting with her parents and she wanted to build bridges for both “sides.”

Now that she’s had time to nurture them, Vanessa is happy to share some of the “lots of projects” she talked about in June 2009. Please welcome back Vanessa Van Petten.

MCA: Hi Vanessa, we’re so glad you’ve stopped by. First, we’d like to add our own best wishes on the announcement of your engagement! How exciting!
Vanessa: Thank you so much. It is such a fun, crazy time.

MCA: So, besides planning a wedding, what have you been working on since we did our interview last year?
Vanessa: I have a new book coming out with Penguin USA called Do I Get My Allowance Before or After I’m Grounded? It is a book for parents that shares unique insights into the minds of teens and tweens. We also are the first parenting book to use the same techniques that human-lie detectors use to connect with kids–a fun and interesting approach to parent-child communication.

MCA: Wow. That’s a fascinating concept! So as you prepare for your launch, where are the best places for people to keep up with you? 
Vanessa: Well, people can always find me on the Radical Parenting website (www.radicalparenting.com) and on our Facebook Page. I have just started a new column for CNN, and we’ll launch the book in September, starting in Los Angeles. Right now, it’s a six-city tour that includes LA; New York; Fairfield County, CT; Portland, OR; Charlotte, NC; and St. Louis, MO.

MCA: Now that you are a well-seasoned honoree, what piece of advice would you offer to new alumni?
Vanessa: Always offer advice and help that is tangible and you would use yourself. This will get you followers and supporters because what you are saying is helpful and genuine.

MCA: In that first interview, you talked about the importance of dreaming really big and working really hard to reach your goals. Clearly with all the work you’ve put in those dreams are coming true. What are you most looking forward to in 2011?
Vanessa: I cannot wait to start a new book and speaking tour around the country this fall. The new CNN column is a nice stretch for me. I like how it has introduced me to many new readers … and potentially more Youthologists.