Cathy and Todd discuss an article from The New York Times titled, 'Parents Are Highly Involved in Their Adult Children’s Lives, and Fine With It,' explaining that staying intimately connected to our older children has benefits, not just risks, and most young adults agree. They discuss the perspectives of previous generations and why things have changed, as well as why it’s easy to stay connected due to devices and the research around effective parenting. They also discuss the fascination with OOTD (outfit of the day) and GRWM (get ready with me) on social media and how we can talk to our kids about comparison culture and self-worth.

Are We Over-Involved in Our Adult Children’s Lives? The Research Might Surprise You- Episode #752

Zen Parenting is a weekly podcast discussion between a spiritual and emotional mom (Cathy Cassani Adams) and a logical and practical dad (Todd Adams). Every episode is a reminder to wake up to our lives; to be ever more mindful, self-aware, and compassionate in how we parent and how we treat ourselves and others.

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Self-Improvement

Todd and Cathy discussed the importance of developing talents and the challenges of pursuing one's passions. They also emphasized the need for understanding and empathizing when teenage boys lash out or question their belonging (they share an audioclip from Dr. John Duffy). They shared the difference between empathy and sympathy, and why it’s important to be really clear about what you need and ask for it. They ended the show by discussing the victim, villain, hero triangle and what it really means when you are 'hero-ing' someone.

Teenage Boys and Belonging- Episode #761

Cathy and Todd discuss the distinction between weaponized incompetence and regular incompetence, exploring how gender norms and societal expectations shape these ideas. They engage in real-time reflection on how they navigate these dynamics within their partnership and parenting, and they stress the need for communication and flexibility depending on the situation. This is a good episode to listen to with your partner or friends! Lots of issues to discuss and process.

Weaponized Incompetence- Episode #760

Todd and Cathy discuss two factors that make parenting feel more self-directed and understandable. While it will still be messy, unpredictable, and tiring, at least you will feel more in your integrity while doing it! They also talk about listening skills, anxiety, NCAA basketball, and Beyoncé's new album.

The Two Secrets to Parenting – Episode #759

Todd and Cathy discuss about how genuine curiosity helps our kids really hear us and value what we're saying. The same goes for understanding each other in a partnership or empathizing with someone from a different gender perspective. When we're open about not having all the answers, it paves the way for learning and staying connected.

Curiosity Creates Connection- Episode #758

Cathy and Todd discuss the importance of emotional conversations with our kids and why we need to pay attention to how we experience and perceive what our children are telling us. They discuss what kids really need from us when they are emotional and how we can support them without absolving or absorbing their pain. They also discuss Friday Night Videos and commercials from the 80’s.

Are We Over-Involved in Our Adult Children’s Lives? The Research Might Surprise You- Episode #752

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