There’s something powerful about watching kids fully lose themselves in what they love. In this episode, we’re talking about healthy obsession — and why letting your kids dive headfirst into the things that light them up might be one of the most confidence-building (and regulating) gifts you can give them.

We unpack our own complicated relationship with “obsession,” how many of us were taught to earn our interests instead of explore them freely, and what shifts when we stop interrupting our kids’ passions just because they’re loud, messy, or uncomfortable for us. From soccer balls bouncing off the walls to rollerblades flying through the kitchen, we share the real-life moments that forced us to sit with our own discomfort — and what changed when we did.

You’ll hear how allowing space for obsession can reduce power struggles, support emotional regulation, and build the kind of confidence that carries far beyond childhood. This conversation is as much about parenting as it is about self-trust, letting go of control, and learning when our comfort isn’t the thing that needs to come first.

Today we cover:

• Why obsession isn’t a problem — and how it helps kids discover what lights them up
• How letting kids repeat, practice, and “annoy us” builds real confidence
• The surprising link between physical obsession and emotional regulation
• When setting limits is about safety… and when it’s about our own discomfort
• How supporting your child’s passion strengthens trust — for them and you

Connect with Whitney & Stephanie: [email protected]

Stephanie IG: @_stephanie_hanna_

The Other 85: https://theother85.net/ 

Whitney IG: @whitneyabraham