Marriage After Kids, Staying Connected Through Parenting Stress with Dr. Lindsay Cavanagh and Kristen McNeely

Robyn talks with psychologist and marriage expert Dr. Lindsay Cavanagh and Kristen McNeely about communication, intimacy, parenting stress, and how couples can stay connected after having kids.

In this episode, I’m joined by psychologist and marriage expert Dr. Lindsay Cavanagh along with returning guest Kristen McNeely for a conversation about something so many parents feel but do not always talk openly about—how much parenting can impact a marriage. We discuss the ways exhaustion, stress, and the constant demands of raising children can slowly erode connection between partners if those challenges are not acknowledged and addressed.

Dr. Lindsay shares insights into the most common struggles couples face after becoming parents, including communication breakdowns, resentment, emotional disconnection, and misunderstandings around intimacy. Kristen also brings perspective from her work with families and emotional regulation, helping connect how parenting stress impacts both individual well-being and relationship dynamics. One of the biggest themes throughout the episode is the importance of validation, understanding your partner’s experience, and recognizing that parenting stress often affects everyone differently.

We also explore the invisible mental load many parents carry and Dr. Lindsay introduces the “three H’s” of mental load: head, heart, and hands. The conversation highlights how emotional labor and unseen responsibilities can create tension and resentment when they are not openly discussed. Rather than focusing on blame, we talk about how couples can become more curious about each other’s experiences and communicate more clearly about what they need.

Another important part of the discussion centers around redefining connection in busy family life. Dr. Lindsay shares practical reminders that intimacy does not always have to look big or dramatic. Small gestures, moments of appreciation, emotional check-ins, and intentional communication can all help couples feel more connected over time.

By the end of the episode, I hope listeners feel reassured that relationship struggles after kids are common, understandable, and something couples can work through together with more communication, teamwork, and compassion.

Shared Resources: 

• Dr. Lindsay Cavanagh’s Website and Free Resources
• Follow Dr. Lindsay on Instagram @marriedafterkids
• Dr. Lindsay’s Podcast: Married After Kids
• Kristen McNeely’s Website
• Follow Kristen on Instagram @childhood.empowered
• Follow Robyn on Instagram @parentingtheanxiouschild 
• Parenting the Anxious Child Membership
• Sign up for Robyn’s Newsletter and find additional resources

Picky Eating, Food Pressure, and Raising Kids with a Healthy Relationship to Food with Nicole Cruz and Kristen McNeely

Robyn talks with registered dietitian Nicole Cruz and Kristen McNeely about picky eating, food anxiety, and how parents can reduce pressure and create healthier relationships with food.

In this episode, I’m joined by registered dietitian and parent nutrition coach Nicole Cruz, along with returning guest Kristen McNeely, for a conversation that I think so many parents need. We talk about food, picky eating, anxiety around meals, and the pressure families often feel when it comes to what their kids are eating.

Nicole shares how many parents come into these conversations carrying their own complicated relationships with food, which can unintentionally shape the feeding environment at home. We discuss how food culture has changed over time, why control dynamics often show up around eating, and how pressure, restriction, or constant reactions to food choices can actually backfire. One of the biggest themes throughout this conversation is the importance of creating an eating environment that combines structure with autonomy, helping kids feel both supported and empowered.

We also explore sensory issues, intuitive eating, and the importance of neutral language around food. Nicole explains why reducing shame and pressure allows children to build more curiosity and comfort around eating over time. We discuss how parents can encourage healthy habits without turning food into a battle, and why flexibility matters more than perfection.

Another important part of the conversation focuses on reducing stress for parents themselves. We talk about how overwhelming feeding concerns can become, especially when couples have different perspectives about food or when children have more significant struggles like ARFID or severe picky eating. Nicole shares practical ways parents can step back from fear and approach food with more calm, consistency, and trust.

By the end of this episode, I hope parents feel less pressure to “get food right” and more confidence in creating a supportive environment where kids can learn to trust their own bodies over time.

Shared Resources: 

• Nicole Cruz’s Website and Free Resources
• Follow Nicole on Instagram @nicolecruzrd
• Nicole’s Podcast: The Intentional Table
• Kristen McNeely’s Website
• Follow Kristen on Instagram @childhood.empowered
• Follow Robyn on Instagram @parentingtheanxiouschild 
• Parenting the Anxious Child Membership
• Sign up for Robyn’s Newsletter and find additional resources

Screen Time, School, and Parenting in the Digital Age with Emily Cherkin and Kristen McNeely

Robyn sits down with Emily Cherkin and Kristen McNeely to talk about parenting, education, and raising kids in a world shaped by technology.

In this episode, I’m joined by Emily Cherkin, widely known as the Screen Time Consultant, along with returning guest Kristen McNeely, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, for a conversation about technology, parenting, and the growing role of screens in our kids’ lives. Emily shares how she went from being a classroom teacher to becoming an advocate for more intentional technology use, especially as EdTech became more deeply embedded in schools and everyday family life.

We talk about the complicated relationship between parents, schools, and technology. From online grading portals and student privacy to digital literacy and the pressure parents feel to constantly monitor everything, this conversation explores how difficult it can be to navigate parenting in the digital age. We also discuss the impact technology can have on child development, anxiety, attention, and emotional well-being, especially for kids who are already more sensitive or vulnerable.

One thing I really appreciated about this conversation is that it stayed rooted in curiosity rather than judgment. We talked honestly about the challenges families and educators face, while also recognizing that most people are trying to do their best in a rapidly changing world. Emily and Kristen both bring thoughtful perspectives about building trust between parents, schools, and kids, and helping children develop healthier relationships with technology over time.

We also explore the importance of allowing kids to make mistakes, reducing pressure around achievement, and approaching parenting decisions with more intentionality and less fear. By the end of this episode, I hope parents walk away feeling less overwhelmed and more empowered to make thoughtful choices that align with their family’s values.

Shared Resources: 

• Kristen McNeely’s Website
• Follow Kristen on Instagram @childhood.empowered
• Emily Cherkin’s Website and Substack
• Follow Emily on Instagram @thescreentimeconsultant
• Follow Robyn on Instagram @parentingtheanxiouschild 
• Parenting the Anxious Child Membership
• Sign up for Robyn’s Newsletter and find additional resources

Calm Parenting in Real Life, Supporting Anxious Kids Without Power Struggles with Kirk Martin and Kristen McNeely

Robyn talks with Kirk Martin and Kristen McNeely about anxiety, behavior, and how parents can stay calm and steady without getting pulled into power struggles.

In this episode, I’m joined by Kristen McNeely and Kirk Martin for a conversation that brings together both the emotional and behavioral sides of parenting anxious kids. Kristen returns with her dual background in therapy and behavior, and Kirk brings his perspective from the Calm Parenting approach, which focuses on staying grounded and connected even in the middle of hard moments.

We talk about what it actually looks like when kids are overwhelmed, reactive, or struggling with anxiety, and how easy it is for parents to get pulled into those moments. This conversation focuses on what it means to stay calm without shutting down, and how to respond in a way that helps your child feel safe while still holding boundaries.

Throughout the episode, we explore how behavior and anxiety often overlap, especially for kids who are already more sensitive or reactive. We also talk about how parents can shift out of power struggles and into a more steady, confident role that supports long-term growth.

If you’ve ever felt like your child’s reactions pull you into frustration or conflict, this episode will help you step back and see another way forward. You’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of how calm, consistent responses can change the tone of your home and help your child build confidence over time.

Shared Resources: 

• Kristen McNeely’s Website
• Follow Kristen on Instagram @childhood.empowered
• Kirk Martin’s Website
• Kirk Martin’s Calm Parenting Podcast
• Follow Kirk Martin on Instagram @calmparentingpodcast
• Robyn’s 6-Week Parent Cohort
• Follow Robyn on Instagram @parentingtheanxiouschild 
• Parenting the Anxious Child Membership
• Sign up for Robyn’s Newsletter and find additional resources

Anxiety and Behavior, How to Understand What Your Child Is Really Showing You with Kristen McNeely

Robyn and Kristen talk about the connection between anxiety and behavior, and how parents can respond in ways that support both emotional and behavioral needs.

In this episode, I’m joined again by Kristen McNeely, and I’m so glad she’s back because this is a conversation so many parents need. Kristen brings both a therapy background and a behavior background, which makes this discussion especially helpful when we’re trying to understand what’s really going on with our kids.

We talk about something that comes up all the time for parents. When a child is struggling, it can be hard to tell what’s anxiety and what’s behavior. And more importantly, how do we respond in a way that actually helps? Kristen shares how these two things are often deeply connected, especially for kids who are anxious or who may also have ADHD.

Throughout the episode, we explore how looking at behavior alone can miss the bigger picture, and how focusing only on emotions can leave parents without clear tools. This conversation helps bring those two pieces together so parents can feel more confident in how they respond in real time.

If you’ve ever felt stuck trying to figure out how to handle your child’s reactions, this episode will help you step back and see things more clearly. You’ll walk away with a better understanding of what your child’s behavior might be communicating and how to support them in a way that feels both grounded and effective.

Shared Resources: 

• Kristen McNeely’s Website
• Follow Kristen on Instagram @childhood.empowered
• Robyn’s 6-Week Parent Cohort
• Follow Robyn on Instagram @parentingtheanxiouschild 
• Parenting the Anxious Child Membership
• Sign up for Robyn’s Newsletter and find additional resources

Let Them Be Bored: Why Doing Less Helps Kids Play, Create, and Grow with Lizzie Assa

Robyn talks with Lizzie Assa about boredom, play, and how stepping back helps kids build creativity, independence, and confidence.

In this episode, I’m joined by Lizzie Assa, founder of The Workspace for Children and author of But I’m Bored, for a conversation that gets right to the heart of doing less parenting. Lizzie shares her perspective as a mom of three and someone who deeply believes in the power of play and giving kids more space to figure things out on their own.

We talk about boredom, something so many parents feel pressure to fix. When kids say “I’m bored,” it can feel like we’re supposed to jump in with ideas, solutions, or entertainment. But Lizzie explains why boredom is actually an opportunity. It’s often the starting point for creativity, problem-solving, and independence.

Throughout the episode, we explore how stepping back, talking less, and resisting the urge to constantly engage allows kids to take more ownership of their time and their ideas. Lizzie shares how this approach has played out in her own home and why doing less doesn’t mean being disengaged. It means being intentional about when we step in and when we allow space.

If you’ve ever felt stuck in the cycle of entertaining your kids or solving boredom for them, this episode will feel like a breath of fresh air. It’s a reminder that your child doesn’t need more from you in those moments. They need more room to discover what they’re capable of on their own.

Shared Resources: 

• Follow Lizzie on Instagram @theworkspaceforchildren
• Lizzy’s Website
• Lizzy’s book But I’m Bored
• Robyn’s 6-Week Parent Cohort
• Follow Robyn on Instagram @parentingtheanxiouschild 
• Parenting the Anxious Child Membership
• Sign up for Robyn’s Newsletter and find additional resources

Do Less Fighting Over Routines: Building Healthy Dental Habits That Stick with Emily Krausz

Robyn talks with Emily Krausz of Pediatric Dental Mom about kids’ dental health, parenting habits, and how to balance structure without power struggles.

In this episode, I’m joined by Emily Krausz, the voice behind Pediatric Dental Mom on Instagram, for a conversation that every parent can relate to—how do we take care of our kids’ health without turning it into a constant battle? Emily shares her unique perspective as a mom who has spent years immersed in pediatric dentistry through her family, and how that has shaped the way she approaches daily routines with her own kids.

We talk about the mental load that comes with knowing “too much” as a parent. When you understand the long-term impact of things like brushing, snacking, and habits, it can feel like everything matters all the time. Emily shares how that awareness has led her to create clear, non-negotiable routines around dental care, while still navigating the realities of parenting young kids.

Throughout the conversation, we explore how structure and consistency can actually reduce stress—for both parents and kids. Instead of constantly negotiating or reacting in the moment, having clear expectations around things like brushing teeth can take the pressure off.

If you’ve ever found yourself in a nightly struggle over brushing, snacks, or routines, this episode offers a grounded way to think about it. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being clear, consistent, and intentional in the areas that matter most.

Shared Resources: 

• Follow Emily on Instagram @pediatricdentalmom
• Emily’s Guides & Links
• Robyn’s 6-Week Parent Cohort
• Follow Robyn on Instagram @parentingtheanxiouschild 
• Parenting the Anxious Child Membership
• Sign up for Robyn’s Newsletter and find additional resources

Navigating Neurodivergence: Parenting Strategies for Autism and Anxiety with Dr. Hannah Samaha

Robyn talks with psychologist Dr. Hannah Samaha about the overlap between anxiety, autism, and ADHD, and how parents can support neurodivergent kids while still encouraging growth and independence.

In this episode, I’m joined by psychologist Dr. Hannah Samaha for a conversation that many parents have been asking about. One of the most common questions I receive is whether the SPACE model works for kids who also have autism or ADHD. Hannah brings an important perspective because she works right at the intersection of anxiety and neurodivergence.

We talk about how conversations around autism and ADHD have become a major topic in parenting and clinical spaces. Some approaches focus heavily on accommodating children’s needs, while others emphasize helping kids stretch beyond their comfort zones. Hannah helps unpack what this tension actually looks like for families and how parents can think about support and growth at the same time.

Throughout the episode, we explore how anxiety often shows up alongside neurodivergence and why understanding that overlap matters. Hannah shares insights from her work doing psychological testing and supporting kids with both anxiety and developmental differences.

If you’re parenting a child who is neurodivergent, anxious, or both, this conversation offers a thoughtful way to approach the challenge. It’s not about choosing between accommodation and independence. It’s about finding a balance that helps your child feel understood while still building confidence and capability over time.

Shared Resources: 

• Follow Dr. Hannah on Instagram @itsdoctorhannah
• Dr. Hannah’s website
• Robyn’s 6-Week Parent Cohort
• Follow Robyn on Instagram @parentingtheanxiouschild 
• Parenting the Anxious Child Membership
• Sign up for Robyn’s Newsletter and find additional resources

Closing Season One, Most Frequently Asked Questions

Robyn wraps up season one by reflecting on the top three questions people ask her regularly! 

In this final episode of the season, I wanted to take a moment to look back at what we’ve talked about and what so many of you are living every day. Throughout season one, we’ve explored how anxiety shows up in kids in all kinds of ways—hesitation around separation, clinginess, avoidance, or big emotional reactions during transitions. And as I share in this episode, your child doesn’t need a formal diagnosis for these experiences to matter. If it’s impacting your child, it’s worth paying attention to.

I talk about how important it is for us as parents to stay steady and supportive in those moments instead of jumping in to fix everything. Doing less isn’t about being hands-off. It’s about giving our kids room to feel their feelings, try things on their own, and build the skills they need to handle hard moments. This approach is grounded in research, and I want you to feel confident that stepping back a little can actually help your child move forward.

As we wrap up season one, I’m so grateful for the community that has formed around these conversations. Thank you for being here, for doing your own work, and for showing up for your kids in such intentional ways. I hope you carry these tools with you and trust that small changes really do lead to big growth.

Shared Resources: 

• Follow Robyn on Instagram @parentingtheanxiouschild 
• Parenting the Anxious Child Membership
• Sign up for Robyn’s Newsletter and find additional resources

Why Having a Strategy Helps Us When We Have No More Energy to Parent

Robyn explains how using these tools helps parents when we are depleted and our battery is drained.

In this solo episode, therapist and mom Robyn Isman talks about the power of stepping back so children can step forward. She reflects on how easily parents slip into doing too much—rescuing, fixing, smoothing things over—and how those patterns unintentionally reinforce anxiety. Robyn shares why giving kids more space is not about neglect. It is a research-supported approach that strengthens emotional regulation, problem solving, and independence.

Robyn walks through the core ideas behind doing less, and how this framework has helped her in her own parenting, especially during times when grieving the loss of her own mom.

Throughout the episode, Robyn reminds listeners that stepping back can feel counterintuitive at first, especially for anxious parents, but it ultimately brings relief and connection even when we have no energy. 

By the end of this episode, parents will feel encouraged to pause, breathe, and allow their children to experience more of their own lives. You’ll come away with a clearer understanding of how less interference leads to more confidence—and why this shift feels like permission rather than pressure.

Shared Resources: 

• Follow Robyn on Instagram @parentingtheanxiouschild 
• Parenting the Anxious Child Membership
• Sign up for Robyn’s Newsletter and find additional resources