Globally Thriving Families

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Hidden Skills for School Readiness in Globally Mobile Families (with Adam Griffin, Pediatric OT)

Host Clare O’Byrne interviews Adam Griffin, a pediatric occupational therapist in Dubai, CEO and medical director of Hakkini Mental Health Clinic. With children returning to school, they discuss school readiness as more than academics, emphasizing Adam’s guiding idea, “kids do well if they can,” and focusing on identifying barriers to learning rather than box-ticking skills. They cover foundational factors such as safety and emotional security, sensory processing, motor confidence, socialization, independence, self-care, and the developmental value of play for older children, including shared play and reducing screen-time competition. They address parent anxiety, understanding a child’s needs (including neurodivergence), advocating collaboratively with schools, and the added challenges of international transitions, highlighting the importance of stable family culture and supportive community connections. Adam explains Hakkini’s integrated, relationship-based multidisciplinary approach and how parents can reach him at @adamtheot.

00:00 Welcome to the Podcast
02:02 Meet Adam The OT
04:36 School Readiness Reframed
08:37 Foundational Skills Pyramid
13:00 Why Play Still Matters
14:50 Screens vs Real Play
22:00 Micro Reps Build Skills
24:52 Calming Academic Anxiety
30:07 Transitions in Expat Life
31:18 Building Roots and Community
34:15 School Fit and Stability
35:25 Neurodivergent Transition Support
36:41 Parent Advocacy Mindset
40:09 Curating Supportive Coaches
42:21 Redefining Success Metrics
44:15 Dads and Daily Presence
49:16 Inside Hakkini Clinic Model
53:14 Integrated School Partnerships
58:16 Why MDT Beats Mixed Advice
01:00:43 Closing and How to Reach Out

Adam's Summer Quest Challenge Activities: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EsYE2hYvVpvrXfptUtPsg72EGaNQBrI-/view?usp=drive_link 

Connect with Clare: [email protected]

Get the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.com

Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving

Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting 

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Moving Countries with Kids: The Mental Load, Dual Emotions, and Getting Through the Messy Middle

Host Clare O’Byrne welcomes listeners back to the Globally Thriving Families podcast after a few months off, sharing reflections from her recent move from the UAE to Canada. She describes how the mental load begins long before packing, with uncertainty, research, planning, and “project management” demands while closing down one life and starting another, all while considering children’s adjustment. After arrival, she notes there is “no autopilot,” as rebuilding systems like housing, schools, healthcare, banking, and transportation requires constant executive function and can lead to exhaustion and overwhelm. Claire emphasizes the duality of feelings—excitement and grief, gratitude and fatigue—and the inevitability of the uncomfortable “messy middle.” She recommends cultivating small “glimmers” to support regulation during prolonged stress and reminds listeners there’s no set timeline for feeling settled.

00:00 Welcome to the Podcast
01:01 Host Update and Big Move
02:46 The Mental Load Before Packing
06:01 No Autopilot After Arrival
09:05 Holding Mixed Emotions
10:09 The Messy Middle Phase
11:40 Finding Glimmers for Relief
13:20 Final Takeaways and Goodbye

Connect with Clare: [email protected]

Get the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.com

Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving

Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting 

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Managing Holiday Stress and Overstimulation for International Families

In this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne, a parent coach and occupational therapist, discusses the mental load, pressure, and overstimulation that the holiday season can bring, especially for internationally parenting families. Clare offers insights on how to handle the chaos, prioritize self-care, and create low-pressure, memorable moments that foster connection and joy. She also introduces actionable micro habits to help families thrive during the holiday season.

00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families
01:00 Holiday Season Challenges for International Parents
02:06 Managing Mental Load and Social Expectations
03:45 Sensory Overstimulation and Pressure
06:50 Creating Core Memories and Micro Moments
08:50 Practical Tips for a Balanced Holiday Season
11:05 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
12:21 Connect and Learn More

Resources mentioned in the episode: 

Thriving Through the Winter Holidays and the Heavy Work Suggestions: 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lDcIxpX-0ip7JAqkI8vMW_gygLvnpuGu/view?usp=sharing  

Connect with Clare: [email protected]

Get the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.com

Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving

Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting 

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Navigating sibling conflict: when doing less is more. 

In this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne, addresses the common parenting challenge of sibling conflict. Clare provides insights into why sibling bickering is hard for parents to tolerate and how it impacts our emotional regulation. She offers practical strategies for managing sibling rivalry and conflict by distinguishing between different types of conflicts, emphasizing the importance of allowing children space to develop essential social skills. Clare also discusses how parents can stay calm and use grounding techniques to support their children's emotional development. The episode includes advice on how to co-regulate with children, the significance of post-conflict repair and reconnection, and offers resources for further support.

00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families Podcast
01:03 The Reality of Sibling Relationships
02:16 Understanding the Root Causes of Sibling Conflicts
04:21 Defining Sibling Rivalry and Conflict
06:10 The Importance of Conflict in Child Development
08:20 Parental Strategies for Managing Sibling Conflicts
12:28 Repairing and Reconnecting After Conflicts
15:33 Conclusion and Further Support

Resources mentioned in the episode:

Guide to Sibling Dynamics: Rivalry, Conflict, Aggression or Abuse.

 https://www.unh.edu/saara/sites/default/files/media/2025-10/classification-of-sibling-dynamics-handout.pdf

Connect with Clare: [email protected]

Get the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.com

Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving

Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting 

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How your body, your past and your current reality collide in tough parenting moments.

In this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne, a parent coach and occupational therapist, delves into the challenges of 'staying calm' as a parent, particularly in high-stress moments triggered by a child's big emotions. Clare explains the neurobiological factors at play, including the activation of the amygdala, stress hormones, and mirror neurons, which make staying calm difficult despite knowing effective strategies. She also explores how past childhood experiences and the unique stressors of parenting in an international context can affect emotional regulation. Clare emphasizes the importance of awareness, self-compassion, and co-regulation—being present and connected with your child, rather than solely focusing on staying calm—as crucial steps in managing these challenging situations. This episode offers valuable insights and practical advice for parents seeking to support their children's emotional well-being and navigate their own reactions.

00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families
01:02 Understanding Parental Stress and Child Emotions
02:54 The Neurobiology of Stress Responses
06:02 Impact of Past Experiences on Parenting
08:58 Challenges of International Parenting
15:21 The Importance of Co-Regulation
18:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Connect with Clare: [email protected]

Get the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.com

Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving

Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting 

Send us Fan Mail

Thriving in Chaos: Micro Habits for Parents and Caregivers

In this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne, a  parent coach and occupational therapist, explores the concept of thriving amidst the chaos of daily life, especially for parents and caregivers raising children internationally. She delves into the dynamic nature of thriving, emphasizing that it's not about perfection but about feeling alive and learning. Clare discusses the importance of understanding the brain-body connection, particularly through the lens of our eight senses, including proprioception, vestibular, and interoception. She offers practical micro habits to help individuals feel more grounded and connected, despite the hectic nature of life. This episode is a guide to building resilience and nurturing oneself through small, manageable actions.

00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families
01:02 The Myth of Perfect Timing for Thriving
02:14 Defining Thriving and Its Challenges
10:59 Understanding the Brain-Body Connection
18:15 Practical Tips for Sensory Regulation
24:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

References mentioned in the episode: 

A Socially Embedded Model of Thriving at Work. Gretchen Spreitzer et al, Oct 2005, Organization Science, Vol 16. 

Connect with Clare: [email protected]

Get the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.com

Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving

Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting 

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A flexible lens for parents that considers the child, the caregiver, the context, and core values to guide your parenting. 

In this episode of Globally Thriving Families, host Clare O'Byrne emphasizes the importance of moving beyond popular parenting styles by understanding the unique needs of each child, the parent's background, the context of upbringing, and core family values. She introduces a simplified framework using the Four Cs—Child, Caregiver, Context, and Core Values—to guide parents in their daily interactions. Clare also explores foundational studies on parenting approaches and how to navigate the nuances of raising children, particularly in globally mobile and neurodivergent families.

00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families
01:06 Podcast Schedule 
01:46 Understanding Popular Parenting Styles
03:02 Beyond Parenting Styles: The Nuances
04:12 Historical Perspectives on Parenting Approaches
05:51 Modern Parenting Styles and Their Implications
08:06 The Need for Nuanced Parenting
14:41 The Four Cs: A New Parenting Framework
17:11 Implementing the Four Cs in Your Parenting
18:24 Conclusion and next steps

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

The Conscious Parent. Dr. Shefali Tsabary.

The Gentle Parenting Book. Sarah Ockwell-Smith.

Brain-Body Parenting. Dr. Mona Delahooke.

Connect with Clare: [email protected]

Get the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.com

Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving

Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting 

Send us Fan Mail

How to support our kids (and ourselves) to navigate international moves with Mika Izekor.

In this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, Clare talks with Mika Izekor, a cultural intelligence consultant and adult third culture kid. Clare and Mika dive deep into the emotional impacts of big transitions, strategies for fostering resilience, and the importance of maintaining connections to one's cultural roots. Mika shares her personal journey and professional insights, offering practical advice for parents to support their children through relocations. The discussion touches on the value of compassion, authenticity, and the power of shared experiences in helping kids adapt to new environments.

00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families Podcast
01:07 Meet Mika Izekor: Cultural Intelligence Consultant
02:25 Mika's Journey: From Makeup to Coaching
04:35 Understanding Cultural Intelligence
08:06 The Emotional Impact of Relocation on Families
12:56 Navigating Relocation: Practical and Emotional Challenges
21:07 The Role of Parents in Supporting Children Through Transitions
29:50 Parental Stress and Child's Reevaluation
30:16 Navigating New School and Cultural Differences
31:20 Overinflating Positives of Relocation
32:58 Addressing Children's Fears and Concerns
38:28 Balancing Parental Uncertainty and Support
42:00 Building Resilience in Children
45:46 Practical Strategies for Supporting Children
50:04 Understanding Cultural Impact on Parenting
56:08 Conclusion and Workshop Information

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Third Culture Kids: The Experience of Growing Up Among Worlds. David C. Pollock & Ruth E. Van Reken.

Connect with Mika:

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mika-holborow 

Website: www.inelementcoaching.com 

Instagram: in.element.coaching 

Connect with Clare: [email protected]

Get the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.com

Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving

Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting 

Send us Fan Mail

Letting Go of Perfection: Embracing Good Enough Parenting

In this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne addresses the pressure parents, especially those raising children internationally, feel to create perfect experiences for their kids. She unpacks the sources of this pressure, including guilt, fear of missing out, and social media comparisons. Clare introduces the concept of 'good enough parenting,' backed by scientific research from experts like Dr. Dan Siegel and Dr. Tina Payne Bryson. She explains the four S's (safe, seen, soothed, secure) that children need to develop a secure attachment, emphasizing that perfection is not required. Clare encourages parents to reflect on their own experiences and to focus on showing up for their children in everyday moments.

00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families
01:11 The Pressure of Perfect Parenting
03:48 Understanding the Source of Parenting Pressure
06:51 The Science of 'Good Enough' Parenting
11:50 Practical Tips for Showing Up
14:01 Reflecting on Your Parenting Journey
15:27 Conclusion and Next Steps

Resources mentioned in this episode:

The Power of Showing Up: how parental pressure shapes who our kids become and how their brains gets wired. Dr. Dan Siegel and Dr. Tina Payne Bryson

Connect with Clare: [email protected]

Get the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.com

Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving

Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting 

Send us Fan Mail

Navigating Summer Breaks as an International Family: Strategies for a Thriving Experience

In this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne, a parent coach and occupational therapist, explores strategies for managing the unique challenges of summer breaks for internationally mobile families. Clare recaps the previous discussion on the difficulties of living out of a suitcase during holidays and delves into practical tips including using visual supports for trip planning, creating daily anchor routines, understanding sensory preferences, handling external parenting advice, and the power of storytelling. 

00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families Podcast
01:01 Recap of Previous Episode: Challenges of Holiday Travels
03:40 Strategies for Managing Executive Function Overload
04:48 Establishing Anchor Routines for Stability
05:38 Understanding Sensory Preferences for Better Parenting
08:51 Maintaining Autonomy While Staying with Others
11:15 Exploring Identity and Belonging
12:51 Recap and Final Thoughts

Connect with Clare: [email protected]

Get the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.com

Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving

Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting