Technology is incredible—until it starts running the show.

In this episode of The Superwoman Code, I’m joined by Jenna Poste, a tech expert, mom of two and co-founder of the Nova Scotia Chapter of Unplugged Canada, for a real, refreshing, and research-backed convo on how smartphones are impacting our kids, our brains, and our lives.

We dive into how smartphones are changing social development, attention spans, and even play, and offer practical strategies for parents navigating the "when do we give them a phone?" moment (spoiler alert: you're not alone if you're feeling overwhelmed).

This isn't about throwing tech out the window—it’s about conscious choices, setting boundaries, and giving ourselves (and our kids) the tools to grow with technology instead of against it.

Whether your kids are still in diapers or already in high school, this one’s for you. And if you’ve ever found yourself doomscrolling before bed… same. Welcome to the club.

• The difference between a phone and a smartphone

• Why we need to ask: What are we not doing when we’re on our screens?

• The Three C’s of tech: Create, Connect, Consume

• What the research says about smartphone use, anxiety, and attention

• How to delay giving your child a smartphone without feeling like the “mean parent”

• Why kids need risky play, awkward silence, and a little boredom

• How to approach screen time without guilt or constant battles

• A framework for parenting through tech with confidence and clarity

• Unplugged Canada – unpluggedcanada.org

• Books: The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt

• Devices/Tools:

  • Pinwheel — kid-safe smartphones

  • Garmin Bounce Watch

  • Fongo (for home phones)

• Other orgs: Wait Until 8th, Smartphone-Free Childhood

Next time you or your kiddos reach for a device, pause and ask: Am I creating? Am I connecting? Or am I just consuming?

Start there. It might just change everything.

Join Jenna and the Unplugged Canada NS Chapter at their next event! 

Loved this episode? Share it with a friend, tag us in your tech boundary wins, or drop into my DMs to tell me your thoughts. Let’s keep the conversation going.

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• 📖 Full Show Notes

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A Cornerstone Naturopathic Inc. Production

Welcome to this week’s episode of The Superwoman Code! Today, we're diving into an essential and often misunderstood topic: perimenopause and menopause. Joining me is Angela Johnson, CEO and co-founder of Sano Living, Canada’s first comprehensive women’s midlife health platform. Angela's passion for revolutionizing women’s health stems from her own experience, and today, she’s here to share insights that could change how we navigate this life stage, both personally and within our organizations.

Key Takeaways In Today's Episode:

Understanding Menopause in Today’s World: Angela and I tackle the complex landscape of perimenopause and menopause, exploring why women today are demanding better care and why organizations should be paying attention. We discuss how today’s midlife women are rejecting outdated norms and advocating for a proactive approach to their health.

Angela's Personal Journey: We delve into Angela’s story, starting with her early symptoms at 36 and her difficult experiences with both perimenopause and post-menopause. Her journey led her to discover gaps in women’s healthcare and inspired her mission to create lasting change.

Shifting Workplace Culture: Angela explains the economic and organizational impacts of menopause, emphasizing the need for policies that go beyond superficial fixes. We discuss how supporting women through these transitions is essential for employee retention, productivity, and equity in the workplace.

What Employers Can Do: We cover practical solutions that employers can implement to support female employees, such as integrating holistic women’s health programs into benefits packages. Angela highlights the importance of access to consistent, quality care and how it can transform workplace wellness.

Sano Living's Impact: Angela shares how Sano Living is bridging the healthcare gap with a blend of in-person and digital solutions. The platform includes licensed practitioners and a free virtual health assistant called Sano, providing accessible and credible menopause information.

Taking Action: Whether you're an individual seeking support or an HR professional looking to improve workplace policies, Angela’s insights provide actionable steps for change. We also discuss the importance of advocating for better benefits and using the tools available to navigate this life stage with confidence.

Today's episode is a call to action: Let’s support and empower women through every stage of life, prioritizing health and well-being in ways that matter

Use the code SUPERCODE10 for 10% off, today! 

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A Cornerstone Naturopathic Inc Production

Welcome to this week's episode of The Superwoman Code, where we're uncovering a game-changing secret weapon for combating burnout: white space. It's time to view intentional downtime as a necessity, not a luxury.

Key Takeaways In Today's Episode:

What Is White Space? We introduce the concept of white space—not as blank space on your calendar that makes you feel guilty but as intentional recovery time that’s crucial for managing stress and burnout.

The Science Behind Recovery We discuss research supporting the importance of recovery from stress, including findings that show how effective recovery is key to managing long-term stress loads and enhancing overall well-being.

How to Create White Space Practical strategies for building white space into your day include starting small with 15-minute pauses, reassessing commitments to avoid over-scheduling, and using breaks effectively for recovery.

Rethinking Productivity Myths We challenge the myth that constant productivity equals efficiency. Instead, white space allows for greater creativity, problem-solving, and meaningful work by giving your brain time to rest and recharge.

Modeling White Space for Kids Over-scheduling affects children as much as it does adults. We highlight how unstructured playtime is essential for kids' development and how embracing white space can benefit the whole family.

Today's discussion emphasizes that adding white space isn't about doing less; it's about doing what matters with more energy and focus. By intentionally prioritizing downtime, you're setting the stage for long-term well-being.

Remember, white space isn't wasted time—it's essential time. Let us know how you’re incorporating this into your life!

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Welcome to this week’s episode of The Superwoman Code! As we close out the year and look ahead to the New Year, we’re embracing a season all about reinvestment, restoration, and planned downtime: winter. Not just the physical winter with its cold and shorter days, but the metaphorical one that calls us to rest and recharge. So, as we ring in the New Year, join me as we explore how to bring a little more 'winter' into our lives and why it's essential for our well-being.

Key Takeaways in Today's Episode:

1. Embracing Winter’s Rhythm: We discuss how nature shows us the necessity of rest—trees let go of leaves, and animals hibernate—yet we often resist this rhythm. What if we allowed ourselves to rest and reset for the year ahead?

2. The Power of Intentional Rest: Rest isn’t laziness; it's an investment in our future selves. Studies show downtime enhances creativity, problem-solving, and emotional well-being. We dive into how to implement meaningful rest as we step into a new chapter.

3. Practical Winter Wellness Tips: From boosting your mood with outdoor walks to savoring cozy moments inspired by the Danish concept of 'hygge,' we explore ways to stay well and grounded. Think fairy lights, warm drinks, and nourishing meals that set a comforting tone for the New Year.

4. Movement in Winter: Staying active in the colder months is crucial. We discuss mood-boosting, simple exercises like yoga, brisk walks, and even dance parties to keep energy levels up as we kick off a fresh start.

5. Nourishing Winter Foods: We chat about balancing comfort food cravings with nutrient-rich options like omega-3-rich meals and hearty stews that nourish and sustain energy, preparing us for the year to come.

6. Creating Winter Rituals: Rituals bring meaning to our daily routines. From gentle morning moments to calming evening practices, we talk about ways to make this season—and the start of the New Year—feel intentional and restorative.

Today’s episode is an invitation to slow down, reflect, and invest in your well-being as we embrace a fresh start. Remember, winter isn’t a time to push harder; it’s a time to rest and prepare so we can thrive in the seasons ahead.

Thank you for joining me on The Superwoman Code. Here’s to a restful, intentional start to the New Year. Stay warm, stay well, and remember, you’ve got this!

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Welcome to this week's episode of The Superwoman Code! Today, we’re exploring the art of mindful photography and its role in reducing stress and promoting well-being. My guest is Meghan Weber of Mirror Form Foto, a seasoned photographer who has crafted a unique workshop centered around mindfulness and film photography. Get ready to see how stepping back from our digital lives can help us savor the magic of the present moment.

The Intersection of Mindfulness and Photography: Meghan shares how her meditation journey inspired her to create a mindfulness-focused photography workshop. We discuss how capturing images on film, with limited frames and no instant gratification, can ground us and elevate our everyday experiences.

The Power of Slowing Down: We delve into the beauty of using film photography to break away from perfectionism and embrace imperfections. Meghan explains how this art form invites us to connect deeply with our surroundings and be more intentional with our creative energy.

Practical Mindfulness Techniques: Discover the methods Meghan teaches, such as taking centered breaths and journaling before capturing a photo. These practices allow participants to immerse themselves fully in their environment, heightening their awareness and opening space for curiosity and wonder.

Mindfulness Beyond the Lens: Learn how these principles can apply to everyday moments, from navigating chaos at home to finding peace in mundane settings. We emphasize the importance of disconnecting from screens to reconnect with our world and the value of incorporating play and creativity into our lives.

Building a Creative Practice for Burnout Recovery: Meghan describes how her workshop supports individuals experiencing burnout, helping them reconnect with their creative side and find joy in the simple act of observing and documenting life’s wonders.

Today’s conversation invites you to unplug, engage all your senses, and cultivate mindfulness through the lens of a camera. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection but savoring the richness of each moment and fostering self-compassion along the way.

Connect with Meghan On Social  Connect with Meghan Online

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Welcome to this week’s episode of The Superwoman Code! Today, we dive into a conversation with Dr. Hasan Merali, a pediatric emergency medicine doctor and global child health researcher at McMaster University. Hasan has just released his first book, Sleep Well, Take Risks, Squish the Peas, which is full of insights drawn from the incredible world of toddlers. He joins us to discuss what we can learn from the little humans in our lives, particularly about living with more joy, presence, and intentionality.

Key Takeaways In Today’s Episode:

1. Learning From Toddlers: We explore the invaluable lessons toddlers offer us about being more present, taking risks, and embracing joy. Toddlers live in the moment, laugh abundantly, and play without a purpose—behaviors that adults can benefit from to boost creativity and well-being.

2. The Power of Saying No: Hasan shares how toddlers are masters of boundary setting, and we discuss the significance of learning to say “no” as adults to prevent overwhelm and burnout. It’s about creating the space we need to thrive, not just survive.

3. Sleep as a Non-Negotiable: One of the most crucial lessons toddlers teach us is the importance of a consistent sleep routine. Hasan walks us through a toddler-inspired sleep routine that adults can adopt, including tips like setting a strict bedtime, minimizing screen time before sleep, and engaging in calming pre-bed rituals.

4. Infusing Play Into Our Lives: From reframing everyday chores into enjoyable side quests to adopting activities like improv that encourage spontaneity, we discuss how play can make our lives richer and more enjoyable.

5. Building Joy and Laughter: Toddlers laugh multiple times more than adults, and they instinctively find ways to infuse humor into life. Hasan emphasizes the importance of laughter for stress relief and introduces concepts like laughter yoga and meditation.

6. Creating White Space: Inspired by toddlers and his own family practices, Hasan talks about the importance of unstructured time in our schedules. Whether it’s going on a spontaneous adventure or simply relaxing without a set agenda, white space can be incredibly rejuvenating.

Today’s episode will inspire you to reconnect with your inner child, prioritize what truly matters, and adopt practices that toddlers excel at, like being present, setting boundaries, and living joyfully. Remember, it’s the little moments of play, laughter, and connection that enrich our lives.

Sleep Well, Take Risks, Squish the Peas is available now, wherever books are sold. 

Connect with Hasan  Order Squish The Peas From Indigo 

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Welcome to this week’s episode of The Superwoman Code, where we address a common holiday struggle: burnout. In today’s episode, we explore how to shift from holiday stress to joy using practical strategies that make a real difference. I'm pulling out all the stops to make this holiday season one you can truly enjoy!

Key Takeaways In Today's Episode:

Turning Stress Into Appreciation: We dive into how gratitude can transform your holiday experience. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, simple practices like creating a nightly gratitude jar can help you focus on what really matters. These moments of appreciation—like the coziness of a blanket or the sound of laughter—can ground you and bring more joy to your days.

Releasing Tension from Your Body: We discuss progressive muscle relaxation, a powerful technique to let go of holiday stress. By tensing and then relaxing muscle groups, paired with deep breathing, you give your body a mini vacation from all the pressure. This tool is a lifesaver, whether you’re preparing for a holiday event or winding down at night.

Protecting Your Energy with Time Management: We break down how to prioritize essential tasks over extras, like choosing must-dos (buying groceries) over nice-to-dos (baking five different kinds of cookies). Scheduling intentional white space throughout your day can prevent burnout and keep your energy levels steady. Plus, I share my favorite ways to simplify traditions to better fit your current season of life.

Creating Traditions that Match Your Season of Life: We explore the idea of starting new, meaningful rituals that align with where you are right now. From simple activities like hot cocoa nights to reflective rituals like a gratitude jar reveal, these traditions can make the holidays feel more joyful and less overwhelming.

Today's discussion is designed to help you reimagine the holiday season with less pressure and more peace. Remember, simplifying doesn’t mean sacrificing—it means focusing on what brings you genuine joy and connection. Let me know your holiday strategies by sending a DM on Instagram. I can't wait to hear how you’re adding sparkle and joy to your season without the overwhelm!

Thank you for tuning into The Superwoman Code! Take care of yourself, enjoy the holidays, and remember, you’ve got this.

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A Cornerstone Naturopathic Inc Production

Hey friends! After a little break, we're back with a conversation that could change how you think about stress and resilience. We’re diving into the crucial difference between coping with stress and genuinely recovering from it. Trust me, it’s more than just semantics — it’s about your long-term health and energy. Let's dive in!

Key Takeaways In Today’s Episode:

1. The Difference Between Coping and Recovery: We explore how coping strategies help you handle stress in the moment, while recovery strategies fully reset your body and mind. Both are important, but only recovery builds true resilience.

2. Coping Strategies: Deep breaths, quick walks, and venting to a friend are great for temporary relief. However, they don’t address the deeper wear and tear of chronic stress.

3. The Science of Stress and Recovery: We break down what happens to your body when stress isn’t fully downregulated, leading to an accumulation of allostatic load. We also discuss how morning stress levels, like your cortisol awakening response, impact your recovery throughout the day.

4. The Role of Sleep in Recovery: Sleep isn’t just rest — it’s your body’s prime time for repair and rejuvenation. We talk about setting up evening routines that promote better sleep quality and why bedtime procrastination is a real challenge for many of us.

5. Engaging in Restorative Activities: From yoga and nature time to simply talking to your houseplants, we share how small restorative habits can make a big difference in bringing your cortisol levels down.

6. Creating White Space: Why building mini transitions between work and home can help your body switch from stress mode to recovery mode, even if it’s just listening to a song or taking a short walk.

This Week’s Challenge: Think about how you can incorporate more recovery into your daily routine. Remember, short-term stress relief is great, but full recovery is what builds your resilience. Let’s make recovery a daily habit and take care of ourselves in the process.

Thanks for tuning in, and until next time, remember that real recovery is the key to managing stress. You've got this!

Papers Cited:

Revisiting the stress recovery hypothesis: Differential associations of cortisol stress reactivity and recovery after acute psychosocial stress with markers of long-term stress and health 

The role of acute stress recovery in emotional resilience

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Welcome to this week’s episode of the Superwoman Code, where we tackle the myth that threatens our well-being: the belief that we should and can do it all. In today’s episode, we dive deep into why embracing our limitations and focusing on what matters is not just freeing but essential for our health and happiness. I'm ripping the bandaid off over here friends! 

Key Takeaways In Today's Episode:

The Myth of Doing It All: We explore the seductive, yet harmful, belief that success means excelling in every area of life. This myth leads to stress, anxiety, and ultimately, burnout.

Embracing Limitations: Through the stories of Sarah and Olivia, we see the diversity of experiences women face. Their journeys highlight the importance of partnership, community support, and setting realistic expectations.

Strategies for Realistic Goal Setting: We discuss practical strategies such as conducting an energy audit, adopting the two-list method for tasks, and aligning daily activities with core values to manage our energy and focus on what truly matters.

Letting Go: Learning to let go of perfectionism and unrealistic standards is crucial. We delve into how digital detoxes, focusing on progress over perfection, and building supportive communities can enhance our well-being.

Building a Supportive Community: Asking for and offering support strengthens bonds and fosters a culture of mutual aid. We emphasize that seeking help is a sign of strength and an essential strategy for navigating life’s challenges.

Today's discussion aims to empower you to let go of the pressure to do it all, embrace your limitations, and focus on enriching your life with meaningful connections and activities that align with your values. Remember, your worth is not measured by your productivity but by the quality of your life and the connections you foster.

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Welcome to this week’s episode of the Superwoman Code, where we tackle the often overlooked yet crucial aspect of daily living: meal preparation. Today, we dive into strategies designed to minimize decision fatigue and transform meal prep from a chore into a more manageable, and potentially enjoyable, part of your routine. 

Key Takeaways In Today's Episode:

Foundation of Meal Planning: Starting with proteins, the cornerstone of meal planning, we discuss the importance of preparing versatile proteins ahead of time. This approach saves significant time and energy, making the daily question of "What's for dinner?" much easier to answer.

Introducing Joy and Variety: To combat the monotony that often leads to mealtime burnout, we explore the benefits of diversifying your meal repertoire. Introducing one new meal every other week keeps mealtime interesting and encourages culinary exploration without overwhelming your schedule.

Reorganizing Your Fridge for Success: A novel approach to meal prep involves reorganizing your fridge with meal components for each day of the week stored in separate containers. This system not only keeps ingredients fresh but also offers a visual cue of your meal plan at a glance, adding flexibility and ease to your daily routine.

Embracing Flexibility: Flexibility is key in preventing meal prep burnout. We talk about tracking your meals to identify patterns, doubling recipes to ease lunch prep, and creating a meal plan that adapts to your busy life, ensuring you don't sacrifice nutrition or enjoyment.

Today's episode underscores the message that your worth is not tied to your productivity in the kitchen. By implementing strategies that reduce decision-making and streamline meal prep, we can alleviate the pressure of daily meal decisions. Choose one strategy from today's discussion to incorporate into your routine, and share your journey with us. Let's make meal prep a manageable, and maybe even joyful, part of our lives.

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