Do you ever feel like you're reacting to your kids in a way you never intended? You're not alone. Our own history and childhood experiences often shape our parenting more than we realize.

In this powerful episode of It Takes a Family, hosts Andy and Kelly are joined by licensed professional counselor and dear friend, Molly Hughes. As a counselor at Eagle Ranch's Wing Center, Molly has seen firsthand how understanding your personal story is the first crucial step toward whole-family healing. She unpacks the core question: How does the family you grew up in impact the family you lead now?

You’ll learn why it’s so important to explore your past, what a genogram (or family tree on steroids) can reveal about your family's patterns, and how birth order might be a key piece of your parenting puzzle.

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Episode Highlights:

• [01:10] Introducing our guest, Molly Hughes, and her experience at Eagle Ranch.
• [02:29] Molly shares her personal family story, from her childhood to her current family of eight, including twins and adopted children.
• [05:58] How important is it to understand your own personal history and story?
• [08:52] What is a genogram, and why is it a powerful tool for self-discovery?
• [11:51] Does birth order really matter, and how does it impact your personality and parenting style?
• [16:50] How to find introspection and begin exploring your story without a therapist.
• [21:20] A common family dynamic and the challenge of seeing ourselves clearly.
• [23:00] The science behind why your early childhood experiences matter.

Links & Resources:

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• Learn more about the work of Eagle Ranch at EagleRanch.org.
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