What does it take to thrive, to have well being, to be happy? MaryRuth discusses the five factors that contribute to happiness and challenges us to take a closer look at how these areas operate in our lives.

We are built for relationships. If we don't three different types of relationships - intimacy, friendship and community, we can be lonely. Michelle Benzinger joins MaryRuth to discuss creating connections and building good relationships.

All of us will suffer. Grief is part of life. How do we deal with loss and how do we help our children with suffering and grief? Rita Morton joins MaryRuth to explore grief, suffering, loss and healing.

We are in a mental health crisis, especially with children and teens. What are parents to do? Bishop Dolan joins MaryRuth to explore strategies and resources to help those who suffer.

When is a good time to get your kid a phone? It's a tough question and one that varies from family to family, and child to child. MaryRuth breaks down some of the considerations to keep in mind when making decisions about phones.

Personality tests, especially enneagrams are so popular, but are spiritually dangerous. In addition to not being based in science or truth, enneagrams have their foundations in the occult.  Jordan Burke joins MaryRuth to explore the validity and spirituality behind these practices.

What is it to be a son of God? Mike Phelan joins MaryRuth to discuss what healthy masculinity is and how to cultivate it in our sons.

What does it mean to be a daughter of God? MaryRuth is interviewed by Dulce Aguirre to explore what it means to cultivate a healthy concept of femininity.

Parenting Smarts blends together the science of child development and the realities of family life. We hope it helps you. Be sure to subscribe, download, and share with other people you know who could use some Parenting Smarts!

Where do we begin to talk about sex, intimacy and puberty with our sons? Michael Villanueva, Coordinator for the St. John Paul II Resource Center, joins MaryRuth to explore language, tips and ideas for cultivating healthy conversations about these potentially awkward topics.

Where do we begin to talk about sex, intimacy and puberty with our daughters? Kris Forbes and Katy Hansen, leaders with the St. Philomena retreats, join MaryRuth to explore language, tips and ideas for cultivating healthy conversations about these potentially awkward topics.

Parenting Smarts blends together the science of child development and the realities of family life. We hope it helps you. Be sure to subscribe, download, and share with other people you know who could use some Parenting Smarts!