Welcome to the latest episode of Behind The Print, where we bring you the creative stories of industry leaders shaping the world of professional printing. In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Kathy Van Benthuysen, President of Converlation, to discuss her incredible journey of empowering students and parents to navigate the digital age with confidence and connection. We’ll explore Kathy’s innovative curriculum, her mission to strengthen conversations and relationships, and how the magic of print plays a pivotal role in bringing her vision to life and keeping her impactful work accessible to all.

Below, you’ll find the transcript of our conversation, edited for clarity to ensure easy reading. If you want the full, authentic experience, make sure to check out the video attached at the end of this post.

9-minute read

“Look how good this looks. This is you guys. It’s all laid out so nicely…there’s just something different and exciting about having a physical book in your hands.” Kathy Van Benthuysen

Transcripts from Behind The Print with Kathy Van Benthuysen

Welcome back to Behind the Print podcast, where we feature industry leaders and uncover the creative minds behind businesses in the professional printing world. Our mission is to provide you with inspiring, actionable resources to elevate your business projects and accelerate your journey to excellence in profit and print.

Today’s episode is Parenting Beyond the Screen: combining print and digital for real results.

Zoe Fisher: And I’m here today with a 30 year teacher, 20 year mom, author, and coach. She is a true kid whisperer, you guys, who spent more than 65, 000 hours with children, earning her expert status. Introducing Conrelation Incorporated President, Co Founder, Kathy Van Benthuyson.

Kathy Van Benthuysen: Thank you for having me, and you said my last name perfectly.

Zoe Fisher: Great! Well, how’s your day today?

Kathy Van Benthuysen: My day is excellent so far. Thank you. And yours?

Zoe Fisher: Very well, very well. Good to meet you.

Kathy Van Benthuysen: You too.

“Parents and kids who have gone through our program say the same thing: ‘We’re having better conversations, and our relationships are stronger.’ That’s what Converlation is all about—creating meaningful conversations and strengthening relationships.” Kathy Van Benthuysen

Zoe Fisher: So I see you were a teacher for about 30 years. What inspired you to retire early with Converlation?

Kathy Van Benthuysen: I’ll tell you a story because I love stories. The reason why is that every single day of my teaching career, I would greet the kids at the door and say, “Good morning, Zoe, how are you doing today?” I expected two things: eye contact and a response.

Back in 1992, every single student on the first day of school could look me in the eye and respond. Fast forward to my last year, 2021—only one student could do that on the first day of school. By December, I was still reminding kids, “You need to look me in the eye; you need to respond.”

I know various factors contributed to this, but I believe a major one is technology. Kids have gotten used to having their heads down in devices. Thirty years ago, they didn’t. Seeing that, I realized I couldn’t sit back and do nothing. I retired five years early, and I believe Converlation is making a bigger difference in kids’ lives.

Zoe Fisher: Wow, that is such a unique perspective. I’ve never heard a teacher speak about this in such depth.

Zoe Fisher: So, who does Converlation serve?

Kathy Van Benthuysen: Converlation serves two main groups. First, we work with schools. Schools see the ramifications of kids’ use of social media, gaming, and endless videos. They see kids who lack focus, can’t pay attention, have lower academic performance, and deal with more cyberbullying. Schools ask us, “You have something to counter these negative effects? Sign us up!”

For example, this is our 5th-grade curriculum, printed by PrintingCenterUSA. This is our 6th-grade curriculum, 7th-grade curriculum, and 8th-grade curriculum. Look how shiny and nice they are! You guys do such a good job. These curriculums help kids develop a healthier relationship with technology.

Second, we’re launching something for parents. Many parents say, “My child’s school isn’t doing this.” So, we provide them with knowledge about technology, such as understanding how social media is just a highlight reel, what dopamine is, the root causes of anxiety and depression, and how inappropriate posts can have long-term consequences.

We also run a book club, where we discuss The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt. We break it down to make it more approachable for parents. Another program is “Conver-Latte with Kathy,” where I answer parenting questions about raising kids in a tech-driven age.

Zoe Fisher: That sounds so engaging and necessary in today’s world. Bringing parents into this community of empowerment must really set Converlation apart.

Kathy Van Benthuysen: Absolutely. When I post on LinkedIn, people often say, “Wow, Kathy, we don’t know anyone else doing this.” Our Converlation mastermind for parents provides them with tools and strategies. Parents want to know they’re not alone in facing challenges like getting kids off Minecraft or TikTok.

Our name, “Converlation,” came from this idea of strengthening conversations and relationships. Parents and kids who go through our programs often say, “We’re having better conversations now.” That’s the goal—creating meaningful conversations.

Zoe Fisher: It’s incredible how your name reflects your mission. Thinking about the future of technology and family relationships, what do you see?

Kathy Van Benthuysen: If we continue down this path, I don’t see a positive outcome. Technology has given us access to real-time information that kids aren’t developmentally ready to handle. It’s warping childhood. For example, children are exposed to things their young minds can’t process. Relationships are reduced to texting instead of talking.

But we don’t say, “Technology is bad; stop using it.” Instead, we teach families how to live alongside it. For instance, during dinner, put devices on the counter and have a meal together. It might feel awkward at first, but over time, you’ll have real conversations again.

Zoe Fisher: That’s such a thoughtful approach. Do you think once families embrace these changes, Converlation will be fully embraced as a solution?

Kathy Van Benthuysen: Yes, when families realize this comes from a place of care and love, not judgment or combativeness, they’ll come on board. Converlation is for parents of kids aged 2 to 18. Whether it’s preventing young kids from becoming dependent on devices or helping teens navigate social media, we’re here to help.

“Parents don’t realize how quickly kids can become addicted to their devices until it’s a problem. But when we come alongside them, educate them, and give them tools, they can raise children who have a healthier relationship with technology.” Kathy Van Benthuysen

Zoe Fisher: How do you use design—whether visual branding, print materials, or digital content—to make your message more engaging?

Kathy Van Benthuysen: I love books and hard-copy materials. Our curriculum is designed so teachers can guide students, and students can bring the same guide home to work with their parents. There’s something special about holding a physical book. It creates excitement and engagement in a way digital doesn’t.

Zoe Fisher: If you could go back to your first day of teaching, what advice would you give yourself knowing what you know today?

Kathy Van Benthuysen: I’d tell myself, “In 30 years, this will be completely different, but don’t be sad. You’ll move on to Converlation and make an even bigger impact.”

Zoe Fisher: What milestones have defined Converlation so far?

Kathy Van Benthuysen: One milestone was evolving our curriculum to meet schools’ needs. Initially, we had a single curriculum for 5th through 8th grades. As schools re-upped, we created unique materials for each grade level.

Another milestone is that our program aligns with educational standards like the NJ Student Learning Standards and the CASEL framework. Seeing schools re-up year after year reinforces that we’re making a difference.

Zoe Fisher: What challenges are holding your business back right now?

Kathy Van Benthuysen: Awareness. People often say, “This is amazing. I’ve never heard of Converlation.” My business partner and I avoided social media for years, but I started using LinkedIn to share our message. It’s helping, but we’re also expanding to Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Zoe Fisher: How do you balance wearing multiple hats in your business?

Kathy Van Benthuysen: We have amazing people who help us, like our designer and remote team members handling social media and outreach. Coming from education, transitioning to business has been a learning curve, but it’s exciting.

Zoe Fisher: If you had unlimited resources for a year, what bold project would you take on?

Kathy Van Benthuysen: We’d love to develop Converlation for businesses. Many people have asked us for a corporate version, but it’s on the back burner for now. With unlimited resources, we’d hire a team to make it happen.

Zoe Fisher: What’s the most rewarding success story you’ve heard from someone who’s used Converlation?

Kathy Van Benthuysen: A school recently shared posters made by 5th graders after using our program. The posters perfectly captured our message about highlight reels, conversations, and relationships. Seeing them understand and embrace these concepts was incredible.

Zoe Fisher: That’s an exciting milestone! Who knows—maybe you’ll be in every school someday.

Kathy Van Benthuysen: From your lips to God’s ears, Zoe!

“Technology isn’t bad—it’s about learning to live alongside it. When we educate kids and parents, they realize how to use their devices as tools, not just entertainment. That shift changes everything.” Kathy Van Benthuysen

Zoe Fisher: If you had a completely free day, how would you spend it?

Kathy Van Benthuysen: At the beach, boogie boarding with my husband and son. I live four minutes from the beach, so it’s my favorite place to relax and recharge.

Zoe Fisher: Sounds like a dream! How can our listeners get in touch with you or learn more about Converlation?

Kathy Van Benthuysen: You can visit our website, Converlation.com, or email me at kathy@converlation.com. You can also find us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.

Zoe Fisher: You heard her! Check out the website or shoot her an email.

That’s a wrap on another episode of Behind The Print. Thanks to our listeners for joining us as we explore the artistry and innovation of the printing world. Remember, have a strong vision, build the right strategy, and use tools like print to amplify your message and make your brand stand out.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, be sure to get your sample pack today from PrintingCenterUSA.com and share it with your fellow business enthusiasts. Until next time, keep your creative sparks flying, and remember, there’s always more to discover behind the print.

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From magical stories to heartwarming illustrations, Kathy Van Benthuysen brings the joy of learning and connection to life through her curriculum, designed to strengthen conversations and relationships. For Kathy, we have been a trusted partner in turning her vision into beautifully crafted, high-quality printed materials that inspire and educate students and parents alike. Whether it’s a curriculum, storybook, calendar, or other printed product, you can bring your own ideas to life with custom printing. Order today!

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