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By Dr. Meg Meeker
Parents today face the challenge of guiding their children through a world that feels increasingly complex. Dr. Meg Meeker, known as America's Mom and a leading authority on parenting, teens, and c
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11451,145 ratings
The podcast currently has 311 episodes available.
The most played episodes among Podcast App listeners.

What happens when every instinct tells you something is wrong, but no one can find answers? In this deeply moving conversation, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with Christina Bernardo, Cuban-American mother of five and co-founder of Avocado Health, to discuss parenting through uncertainty, navigating unimaginable grief, and learning to trust your instincts. Christina shares the story of her daughter, Aviva, whose health struggles began at just nine days old. Despite six unexplained hospitalizations, extensive testing, and consultations with specialists, doctors were never able to determine why Aviva experienced recurring episodes of lethargy, low body temperature, slow heart rate, and breathing difficulties. At just 10½ months old, Aviva passed away when her heart suddenly stopped. Christina opens up about the guilt, questions, and heartbreak that followed, as well as the unique challenges of grieving during the COVID pandemic. She discusses how writing became a lifeline in processing not only the loss of Aviva, but other layers of grief connected to family relationships and past experiences. The conversation also explores how friends and family can better support those who are grieving, the importance of self-compassion, and how Christina transformed her pain into purpose by helping launch Avocado Health. Designed to empower parents, Avocado Health combines clinician-vetted AI guidance with access to parent coaches, workshops, and trusted resources to help families advocate confidently for their children. If you've ever questioned your instincts as a parent, struggled through loss, or wondered how to support someone who is grieving, this episode offers wisdom, hope, and practical encouragement. In This EpisodeChristina's experience with postpartum anxietyAviva's first medical emergency and six unexplained hospitalizationsThe grief, guilt, and "what ifs" that follow child lossProcessing grief through writing and creative expressionHow friends can show up for grieving familiesLearning self-compassion after tragedyThe story behind Avocado HealthHow AI can support parents without replacing medical professionalsWhy trusting your gut matters as a parentFinding purpose after profound loss Connect with Avocado Health Learn more about Avocado Health and its parent-support resources at https://avocadohealth.com. Episode Timestamps 00:00 Tragic Cold Open 00:15 Meet Christina Bernardo 01:26 Postpartum Anxiety Reality 03:25 Aviva's First Scare 06:09 Six Hospitalizations 09:46 Aftermath and Guilt 14:13 Writing Through Grief 17:55 How Friends Can Help 19:33 Show Up For Grief 21:04 Turning Pain Into Purpose 23:14 Self Critic To Self Kindness 25:02 Parent Coach In Pocket 26:13 How The AI Works 27:51 Origin Story And Pivot 30:04 Human Coaches And Workshops 31:56 Why Avocado Health 32:18 Trust Your Gut 36:06 How To Join And Connect 37:00 Final Takeaways See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Dr. Meg Meeker talks with Jessica Robertson about the family values behind Duck Dynasty, the role of faith in shaping their home, and the challenge of raising grounded children in a culture obsessed with fame, screens, and constant noise. Jessica shares how her family protected their marriages, children, and routines during the height of public attention, and why authenticity, forgiveness, and prayer resonated so deeply with viewers. They also dive into adoption, identity, and Jessica’s heart behind her children’s book Dear Valor. Drawing from her experience raising Gus, her Black son adopted into their white family, Jessica explains why honest conversations about identity matter, how adoption reflects biblical truth, and why intentional parenting is essential in every season. This conversation is filled with wisdom on faith, family values, adoption identity, homeschooling, and raising grounded kids with confidence and love. Episode Highlights: Why Duck Dynasty connected with so many families Jessica explains how the show’s emphasis on prayer, faith, forgiveness, and family made people feel seen and encouraged. How the Robertsons protected their kids from fame She shares the boundaries they set around filming, routines, social media, and keeping family life as normal as possible. Adoption, identity, and honest family conversations Jessica opens up about raising Gus, talking about race and belonging, and why adoption should be discussed with truth, compassion, and intention. Parenting with presence in a distracted world The conversation explores schooling choices, technology boundaries, support systems, and why kids need parents who stay engaged. Encouragement for overwhelmed parents Jessica offers practical reassurance for moms and dads trying to build strong families without doing everything perfectly. About Jessica Robertson: Jessica Robertson believes children thrive when parents lead with consistency, faith, and presence. Whether navigating fame, adoption, technology, or school decisions, her message is clear: grounded kids are shaped by grounded families. Parents do not need celebrity platforms to build strong homes, but they do need intentionality, courage, and a willingness to protect what matters most. Buy her latest book, Dear Valor here. Disclaimer: This is an affiliate link through Amazon, which means we may earn a small commission—at no additional cost to you—if you choose to make a purchase. We only recommend resources we genuinely trust and believe in. SponsorsHungryroot – 40% off + free gift with code DRMEGBring calm to the chaos—get $30 off the Cozyla Calendar+ 2 at cozyla.com with code DRMEG and simplify your family’s life today.Laundry Sauce – Make laundry day the best day of the week! Get 20% off your entire order at LaundrySauce.com with code DRMEGThrive Causemetics – Luxury beauty that gives back. Get 20% off your first order at ThriveCausemetics.com/DRMEG and support products that empower women while helping communities thrive.IXL – Help your child build confidence and master essential skills in math, reading, science, and more. Visit IXL.com/DRMEG to get an exclusive 20% off an IXL membership today.Get 25% off at boogiebuster.com plus an ADDITIONAL 20% OFF with code DRMEG — that’s 45% OFF your Boogie Buster today! 🎉 Join the Parenting Great Kids Community, where you'll find support from like-minded parents who are committed to raising emotionally healthy, spiritually strong, and digitally safe kids. Join today at meekerparenting.com/community See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this Christmas episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker invites parents to slow down and reflect on the deeper meaning of Emmanuel—God with us—during seasons when parenting feels uncertain, overwhelming, or out of control. Through reflections on Christmas traditions, gingerbread houses, and the sacred rhythms that shape family life, Dr. Meeker explores how simple rituals create belonging and emotional safety for children. These traditions are not about perfection—they’re about presence. Dr. Meeker also shares deeply personal experiences, including a medical mission trip to the Dominican Republic, where she came face-to-face with the limits of control and the ache parents feel when they can’t fix what’s in front of them. She parallels these moments with Mary’s story as the mother of Jesus—reminding parents that fear, uncertainty, and surrender have always been part of the parenting journey. This episode is a gentle but powerful reminder: uncertainty does not mean abandonment. Even when answers are unclear, Emmanuel is present—offering comfort, hope, and steadiness to parents and children alike. 🎄 A Simple Holiday Note If you’re still looking for a meaningful last-minute gift, the Ask Dr. Meg Community is open. You can try it free, or gift an annual membership with 10% off using code Holiday2025—a gift that supports families well beyond Christmas. 🤝 SponsorsRula makes quality mental healthcare accessible and affordable—matching you with licensed therapists who accept your insurance, often with appointments as soon as tomorrow. Get started at Rula.com/drmegBorn Shoes – 15% off full-price styles + free shipping with code DRMEG at BornShoes.comHungryroot – 40% off + free gift with code DRMEG 🎧 As Heard on PGK Check out other books we've talked about on the podcast. https://amzn.to/46IsRjD Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 📩 Subscribe to the Parenting Great Kids Newsletter: https://bit.ly/46G4Niw See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this insightful episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker welcomes Larissa May and Dr. Raghu Appasani, co-founders of Ginko—an AI-powered parenting tool designed by clinicians to help families manage screen time and support their children's mental health. As screens increasingly dominate our kids' lives, this episode offers a powerful look at how Ginko promotes digital wellness through early intervention, behavioral insight, and personalized parenting support. Ginko is not just another screen-limiting app—it’s a clinically informed platform that helps parents understand their children's emotional state through their digital activity. Larissa and Dr. Appasani share how Ginko personalizes digital guidance, supports healthier habits, and equips families to foster stronger, emotionally connected relationships in the digital age. Whether you're a parent feeling overwhelmed by tech, or a professional navigating the intersection of mental health and technology, this episode provides compassionate and data-driven solutions for raising healthy, tech-savvy kids. Our Guests: Larissa May: Globally recognized as the face of digital wellness, Larz has shaped policy and youth-centered advocacy. Dr. Raghu Appasani: An Integrative & Addiction Psychiatrist and Clinical Professor at UCSF and Mount Sinai. Check out Ginko here. 🎧 As Heard on PGK Check out other books we've talked about on the podcast. https://amzn.to/46IsRjD Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 📩 Subscribe to the Parenting Great Kids Newsletter: https://bit.ly/46G4Niw 🎓 Join the PGK Insider Community – Free Access! Explore our newly launched online courses, parenting forums, and expert Q&A library—all available in our PGK Insider Community. Start for free today and become a more confident, connected parent. Sponsors:Rula makes quality mental healthcare accessible and affordable—matching you with licensed therapists who accept your insurance, often with appointments as soon as tomorrow. Get started at Rula.com/drmegBorn Shoes – 15% off full-price styles + free shipping with code DRMEG at BornShoes.comHungryroot – 40% off + free gift with code DRMEG See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this powerful episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with bestselling author and pastor Max Lucado to talk about parenting peace, faith-based mindset shifts, and the concept of "picky thinking." Learn how to guard your mind, model faith for your teens, and help your children battle anxiety, negative self-talk, and social media pressures. Max shares his personal stories, parenting wisdom, and biblical insights to help families thrive in truth and peace. What You’ll Learn:Why “picky thinking” can transform your parenting mindsetHow to identify and overcome UFOs (Untruths, False Narratives, and Overreactions)The impact of modeling prayer and emotional control for teensThe vital role fathers play in shaping daughters’ self-worthPractical ways to take your thoughts captive for a calmer home Resources: Max Lucado’s book: Tame Your Thoughts 🎧 As Heard on PGK Check out other books we've talked about on the podcast. https://amzn.to/46IsRjD Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 📩 Subscribe to the Parenting Great Kids Newsletter: https://bit.ly/46G4Niw 💡 Feeling Stuck or Overwhelmed as a Parent? Dr. Meg Meeker Can Help You Move Forward with Confidence If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure how to move forward in your parenting journey, Dr. Meg Meeker can help. With decades of experience as a pediatrician and parenting coach, Dr. Meg offers 1-on-1 coaching to help you build confidence, strengthen your family, and parent with purpose. Start your coaching journey today Sponsors:Rula makes quality mental healthcare accessible and affordable—matching you with licensed therapists who accept your insurance, often with appointments as soon as tomorrow. Get started at Rula.com/drmegBorn Shoes – 15% off full-price styles + free shipping with code DRMEG at BornShoes.comHungryroot – 40% off + free gift with code DRMEGIXL Summer Bridge – Keep kids learning with just 15 minutes a day. Shop at summerbrains.com/DRMEGHomeaglow – Get your first 3 hours of cleaning for only $19 at Homeaglow.com/DRMEGListen to Aidee, "Nothing Rhymes With Orange": https://platoon.lnk.to/nothing-rhymes-with-orange See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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