Most of parenting has very little to do with our kids.

In this episode, we explore how our childhood experiences show up in moments of parenting stress, why everyday parenting moments can trigger us, and how this can lead us to respond in ways we might not intend, all through the lens of Internal Family Systems framework. This isn't another parenting style or item we need to check off the list. This episode simply offers another way of understanding ourselves, so we can parent with calm, clarity, and connection.

We are well into January, but it's never too late to reflect. In this episode, we review key parenting themes from 2025 and share what parents should leave behind and what they should bring into 2026.

Play is fun, but it's also how children communicate. In this episode, we are joined by psychologist and play therapy expert Dr. Rachel Altvater to explore what kids express through play and why it’s such a powerful therapeutic tool. From understanding play themes and symbolic behavior to learning why children need control, autonomy, and emotional safety, this conversation helps parents see play as a window into their child’s internal world.

Dr. Altvater practices at Creative Psychological Health Services. Follow her and her work!

It happened; you yelled. You swore you never would, but you did. You are not alone. There isn't a parent in the world who hasn't lost their cool, and honestly, it's important you did. Repair is an essential skill for parents to learn and to model for our kids. 

Entitlement shows up in many families — whether it’s resistance to chores, frustration when things don’t go their way, or racing through Christmas gifts and asking, “Is that it?” In this episode, we break down the roots of entitlement in kids and why today’s instant gratification culture makes it even harder for them to wait, cope, and problem solve.

Small doses of practical parenting advice based on real-life experiences. If you're wondering how much tech is too much, what counts as responsible AI use, or how to protect your child’s cognitive development in a digital world, this episode offers actionable insights straight from the research.

The digital world can literally feel like its own world. In this episode, we discuss the importance of media and digital literacy, the benefits and risks of media, and how to protect their own safety, privacy, and sovereignty. This conversation empowers families to build safer, healthier digital habits together.

TW: discussion of suicide

In this episode, we outline how to co-create a suicide prevention safety plan with your adolescent—what it is, what goes in it, and how to keep it accessible. Talking about suicide doesn’t put the idea in kids’ heads. Open conversations are where it starts. 

Plan templates to use:

• Stanley-Brown Safety Plan
• SAMHSA
• Child Mind Institute

Peer-to-Peer Support

• 988 (call or text)
• The Trevor Project for LGBTQ youth
• Born This Way Foundation’s Be There Certificate

Legal for adults doesn’t mean safe for teens. In this episode, we detail adolescent risks, clarify medical uses, and walk parents through how to talk with teens about smoking, vaping, and edibles. Enjoy this practical, fact-forward guidance for having ongoing, open conversations at home.

This episode shares fluid targets, when electrolytes matter (and a DIY recipe), the surprising recovery power of chocolate milk, and why sleep and nutrition are integral to a hydration strategy—quick, evidence-based tips to keep your athlete safe and performing their best.