Relationships: A Do Better Podcast

Jonathan and Justin look back on a month of hard challenges, from a polar bear plunge to some honest conversations about in-laws. They talk about what doing uncomfortable things together taught them as parents and partners.

In this episode:

How talking through family dynamics brings your own expectations to the surfaceWhy doing hard things together, like a polar plunge, is worth itFun ways to celebrate your kids’ small winsCaregiving for aging parents and the values that get passed down

If you’re dealing with in-laws, putting off a tough conversation, or just want a closer family, this one’s for you.

Get paid to be part of the study:- Website: https://www.jbabitzke.com/ - Email: [email protected] Text: 913-448-2044

Navigating the complex world of caregiving can leave you feeling invisible and overwhelmed. In this episode, we sit down with Jennifer Babitzke, a marriage and family therapist turned sociologist, who sheds light on the often overlooked mental labor of family caregivers. If you’ve ever felt the weight of caring for aging parents or loved ones, this conversation is a must-listen.

Jennifer opens up about her personal journey, having navigated the challenges of caregiving for both her parents and the profound isolation that often accompanies it. With a focus on the unseen emotional and mental burdens caregivers bear, she reveals her groundbreaking research on the mental labor involved in caregiving, an area that remains largely unaddressed in sociology. You’ll discover how societal expectations typically place this burden on women and how a shift is occurring, with more men stepping into these roles.

You’ll learn:- What "mental labor" really means and why it’s critical to recognize it in caregiving scenarios.- The stark differences between experiences caring for her parents at different life stages and what lessons can be drawn from them.- How to advocate for yourself and seek support as a caregiver, especially when you feel alone in your journey.- The importance of language in discussing caregiving roles and how naming these responsibilities can bring about change.

This episode is essential listening for anyone who finds themselves in the role of a caregiver or who wants to better understand the dynamics at play in family caregiving. Jennifer’s insights will not only help you navigate your own experiences but also empower you to advocate for the support you and others like you deserve.

Perfect for caregivers, family members, or anyone interested in the critical conversations surrounding mental labor and family dynamics, this episode will leave you with valuable tools and a renewed sense of community. Listen in and learn how to transform the caregiving experience from a place of isolation to one of shared understanding and support.

- Five Wishes link: https://www.fivewishes.org/ - Area Agencies on Aging: https://www.usaging.org/findyouraaa - AARP Caregiver Basics Blogs: https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/basics/- Eliminating Caregiver Chaos- podcast, blog, and coaching support for caregivers: https://www.eliminatingcaregiverchaos.com/- Gellert, Andrew, and Surya P. Kolluri. 2026. Unready: The State of Preparedness of -Current and Future Caregivers. Research Dialogue. 237. New York, NY: TIAA Institute. https://www.tiaa.org/content/dam/tiaa/institute/pdf/research-dialogue/2026-02/tiaa-institute-research-unready-the-state-of-preparedness-of-current-and-future-caregivers-gellert-kolluri-rd-237-jan-2026.pdf.- James, N. (1992), Care = organisation + physical labour + emotional labour. Sociology of Health & Illness, 14: 488-509. https://doi.org/10.1111/1467-9566.ep10493127

In a world where fatherhood often feels like an uphill battle, discover how the beloved children’s show Bluey redefines what it means to be a dad. Co-hosts Jonathan and Justin sit down with Bluey enthusiast and father Jack Nelson to explore the show's unique portrayal of parenting and its lessons for dads everywhere.

Jack shares his personal journey of fatherhood, revealing how Bluey has not only entertained his family but also transformed his approach to parenting. You'll discover how Bluey captures the essence of engaged fatherhood, showcasing moments that resonate deeply with parents trying to balance work, play, and life’s little challenges. Jack, Jonathan, and Justin dive into the show’s most poignant episodes, discussing how they reflect the real struggles and joys of being a dad.

- The surprising ways Bluey teaches emotional intelligence and resilience to both kids and parents.

- How the character Bandit embodies the ideal father by being present and engaged, and why it’s okay for dads to be imperfect.

- Specific episodes that highlight valuable life lessons, from dealing with disappointment to the importance of play in coping with life’s challenges.

With each anecdote, the stakes become clear: failing to engage with our children can lead to lost opportunities for connection and understanding. The insights shared in this episode aren't just for fans of Bluey, but for any parent looking to deepen their bond with their kids.

Join us for a heartfelt conversation that’s perfect for new dads, seasoned parents, and anyone who’s ever wondered what it truly means to be a good father. This episode is a must-listen if you’re looking to reflect on your parenting journey and embrace the beautiful chaos of family life. Tune in to see how Bluey can inspire you to be the dad you’ve always wanted to be!

Are you confused about autism? You're not alone. In this enlightening episode, licensed clinical counselor Andrew Ryan unpacks the myths surrounding autism, providing clarity that every parent and caregiver desperately needs. Discover the truth about autism, its neurological roots, and how to support children who navigate this challenging landscape.

Andrew, who has spent over five years working with children and families, breaks down the complexities of autism in a way that's both insightful and accessible. He emphasizes that autism is not a disorder to be cured or a result of parenting failure. Instead, he explains its neurodevelopmental foundations, debunking common misconceptions about causes, including the myths about vaccines and dietary influences. You’ll learn how to better understand and empathize with the experiences of individuals on the spectrum.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

- The critical differences between autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD.

- How societal misconceptions can create feelings of shame for parents and children alike.

- Practical strategies for supporting children with autism, ensuring they feel understood and validated.

- Insight into the emotional and social challenges that children with autism face daily.

Understanding autism is vital for everyone. This conversation sheds light on the broader implications of acceptance and support in our communities. By the end of this episode, you’ll feel empowered to advocate for children with autism and foster an environment of understanding and compassion.

Perfect for parents, educators, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of autism, this episode is essential listening for those who want to make a real difference. Tune in and equip yourself with the knowledge to support and uplift those on the spectrum.

Connect with kids TLC: https://www.kidstlc.org/

Navigating in-law relationships can feel like walking through a minefield, but it doesn’t have to be that way. In this episode, therapist Justin and co-host Jonathan invite Emily Sterk, a licensed marriage and family therapist and founder of Healing Towards Wellness, to shed light on the often unspoken emotional burdens of in-laws and the mental load they can create. You’ll discover how in-law dynamics can affect your relationship and mental health, and why it’s crucial to address these challenges head-on. Emily shares her unique perspective as the leader of a nonprofit that emphasizes affordability in mental health care, addressing the stigma around seeking help. She dives deep into the common issues that arise between partners and their in-laws, from holiday gatherings to parenting disagreements, revealing the underlying familial patterns that often exacerbate these conflicts. Justin and Emily explore the importance of understanding one’s family history and how generational patterns influence current relationships. You’ll learn about Bowen theory, the significance of emotional neglect, and how these factors shape the expectations we bring into our marriages. The conversation also touches on practical strategies for communicating effectively with in-laws, ensuring that both partners feel supported and understood. Ignoring the impact of in-law relationships can lead to significant stress and strain on marriages, but Emily emphasizes that awareness and proactive communication can create healthier family dynamics. This episode is essential listening for anyone navigating the complexities of family relations, offering tools for building stronger connections with in-laws and improving your own relationship.Perfect for couples facing challenges with in-laws or those interested in understanding the deeper emotional dynamics at play, this episode is packed with insights that will leave you empowered to transform your family interactions. Tune in to discover how to lighten the mental load and foster healthier relationships today!Connect with Healing Towards Wellness at:https://www.healingtowardswellness.com/https://www.instagram.com/healingtowardswellness/

In today’s episode, we dive deep into our struggles as parents wanting to be better partners and role models for our kids. We share our challenges from previous episodes and talk about the progress we've been making. Sometimes, it’s easy to have great intentions but hard to follow through and we talk about trying to make progress when life busy. We’re all learning together. What’s your take on balancing life and parenting? Let's talk! #ParentingJourney #BetterTogether #DoBetter #DoBetterPodcast

Kristen Tremonti, author of Maybe a Note Would Help, shares her inspiring journey of writing a handwritten note every day, exploring how this practice deepens connections, fosters gratitude, and transforms lives. Discover practical tips, heartfelt stories, and the profound impact of slowing down in a fast-paced world.

Get Kristen's Book: https://amzn.to/4wHbdc1

Follow Kristen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristen.t.reiter/

- The significance of handwritten notes in building relationships

- Kristen Tremonti's journey of writing a note every day for a year

- The emotional and mental health benefits of slow, intentional communication

- Practical tips for starting and maintaining a note-writing habit

- The role of gratitude and active kindness in personal growth

- How notes can deepen community bonds and foster authenticity

- The impact of slowing down in a fast-paced world

- Creative ways to personalize and expand note writing

In this episode, Sher Foy shares vital water safety tips, the importance of swimming lessons for children, and practical advice for parents to prevent drowning accidents. Learn how confidence, access, and proper safety measures can save lives.

- Importance of early swimming lessons

- Water safety rules and best practices

- Parental involvement and modeling

- Safety equipment and environment precautions

- Recognizing signs of distress in water

- Community resources for CPR and first aid

- Building confidence and endurance in children

- Cultural perspectives on water safety

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Water Safety

02:14 Sher's Personal Water Safety Journey

04:09 Starting Water Acclimation Early in Infants

07:13 The Role of Parental Modeling in Water Safety

11:14 When to Start Swimming Lessons for Kids

14:04 Gender and Cultural Differences in Parental Involvement

16:51 Milestones and Mastery in Children's Swimming Development

20:13 Community and Cultural Impact on Water Safety

23:06 Practical Water Safety Rules for Parents

29:56 Designating Water Watchers and Safety Monitors

35:14 Signs of Water Struggle and Rescue Techniques

40:02 CPR and First Aid Training for Parents

45:01 Proper Use of Floaties and Safety Equipment

50:11 Sun Safety and Rash Guards for Water Activities

55:00 Encouraging Lifelong Water Skills and Confidence

59:58 Adult Swim Lessons and Overcoming Water Anxiety

01:05:01 Final Water Safety Tips and Parental Challenges

In this episode, we explore the journey of a school counselor, Jeff Graham, discussing practical strategies for parenting and social-emotional development in today's world of technology and social media. We explore the struggles of children in today's schools and how we can support our children to develop.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Healthy Relationships

05:59 The Journey to Becoming a School Counselor

12:04 Understanding Children's Struggles Today

17:57 The Impact of Social Media on Kids

24:02 Navigating Technology and Parenting

30:00 Boredom and Engagement in Education

32:38 Building Rapport and Responsibility in Children

35:55 Restorative Practices and Conflict Resolution

39:00 Mindfulness Techniques for Emotional Regulation

43:06 Empathy and Social Emotional Learning

46:42 Positive Reinforcement and Behavioral Interventions

51:46 Advice for Parents: Accountability and Apologies

57:44 The Importance of Transparency and Integrity

01:01:09 Encouraging Participation in Clubs and Activities

01:05:26 Finding Balance in Children's Activities

01:10:04 The Decline of Independent Play and Walking to School

01:11:31 The Changing Landscape of School Commutes

01:14:11 Recess: A Fundamental Right for Children

01:16:38 Understanding Alfred Adler's Parenting Philosophy

01:19:09 The Importance of Emotional Reflection in Parenting

01:22:16 Building Resilience Through Relationships

01:26:51 Navigating Technology and Parenting Challenges

01:30:55 The Role of Environment in Child Development

01:34:17 Mindfulness and Reflection in Parenting Challenges

In this episode, Justin and Jonathan explore personal challenges, home renovation, and navigating the emotional impact of layoffs. They share insights on supporting loved ones through tough times and reflect on growth from adversity.

- Supporting a spouse through layoffs

- Personal growth from adversity

- Practicing self-compassion in stressful times

- The stages of grief related to job loss

- Building trust and leaning on support systems

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Challenges and Growth

04:02 Culinary Challenges: Cooking and Connection

09:48 Home Renovation: Design Decisions and Partnership

17:10 Exploring New Horizons: Reading and Self-Discovery

24:01 Self-Compassion: Understanding Personal Needs

30:01 Navigating Layoffs: Supporting Each Other Through Tough Times

31:57 The Shock of Layoff

34:11 Navigating Emotions: Fear and Anger

37:31 Loss of Identity and Future Plans

40:36 Grieving the Loss of Relationships

43:57 Finding Growth in Adversity

46:35 Making Meaning from the Experience

54:14 Supporting a Partner Through Layoff

01:01:20 The Importance of Trust and Teamwork

01:05:25 Processing Grief Together