Parental stress has been declared a public health crisis by the U.S. Surgeon General—and it’s a conversation we all need to have. In this episode, Emily sits down with Debbie and our dear friend and guest Yael Schonbrun, a clinical psychologist and author of Work, Parent, Thrive, to explore what’s behind the overwhelming stress so many parents are feeling and, more importantly, what we can do about it.

We’re talking about all the things that pile up: money worries, the constant rush, and that pressure to “do it all.” Plus, we dive into what parental burnout actually is (and why it’s not your fault) and share simple, science-backed tips to make life a little easier.

This isn’t just about managing parental stress—it’s about showing up for yourself and your kids in a healthier, more sustainable way. If you’ve ever felt like you’re drowning in the demands of parenting, this episode is for you. It’s a conversation that matters—and one that can truly make a difference.

Yael Schonbrun is a clinical psychologist, assistant professor at Brown University, author of Work, Parent, Thrive: 12 Science-Backed Strategies to Ditch Guilt, Manage Overwhelm, and Grow Connection (When Everything Feels Like too Much), past Psychologists Off the Clock co-host, and parent of three. In her research, private practice, and writing, Yael draws on science, philosophy, and clinical practices to share practices proven to foster healthier relationships between partners, parents and children, and between our most important life roles. Yael is a frequent contributor to The Washington Post and her writing on work, parenting, and relationships has appeared in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Greater Good Science Center, Behavioral Scientist, Tricycle, among others.

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