The Heartful Parent Podcast

In this inspiring episode of the Heartful Parent Podcast, I have the pleasure of  welcoming  the incredible Jeanne Wolz—entrepreneur, career alignment coach, and founder of Sirens Rising.  Jeanne joins the podcast to share her personal journey from educator to purpose-driven business owner, and how she now helps women and non-binary folks align their careers with their deepest callings.  Jeanne and I dig into what it really means to listen to your calling, move through the fear that comes with it, and take small but powerful steps toward creating a life—and career—that feels meaningful. This conversation goes beyond just personal growth; it's also about how we, as parents, can model courage and action for our kids. Jeanne helps us explore how embracing our own callings and standing up for what we believe in helps raise children who are empowered to do the same.  This episode is a gentle reminder to all of us that taking action isn't just brave—it's a vital part of who we are. By taking one small step at a time, and empowering our kids to do the same, we really can make a difference.  Resources: sirensrising.co Playing Big with Tara Mohr Raising Antiracist Children by Britt Hawthorne Follow Christy @theheartfulparent | Join the Heartful Parent Academy with code PODCAST

Motherhood is often shaped by the beliefs and expectations we've inherited—but what if we could rewrite the script?  In this episode of the Heartful Parent Podcast, I'm chatting with Dr. Gertrude Lyons, an author, Life Coach and creator of Rewrite the Mother Code LLC. Together, we're exploring how personal growth, emotional responsibility, and self-awareness can transform the way we parent—not just our children, but also ourselves.  Dr. Lyons challenges the traditional ‘mother code' and offers a fresh perspective on what it means to mother, extending beyond biological parenting to include all the ways we nurture and care in our lives. If you've ever felt the need to break free from outdated parenting expectations and embrace a more authentic, fulfilling path, you'll walk away from this episode with many thoughtful tidbits. Dr. Lyons shares practical steps for reparenting ourselves, prioritizing self-care, and recognizing the power of rewriting our own stories.  And she gives us a sneak peek into her upcoming book, Rewrite the Mother Code: From Sacrifice to Stardust, which promises to be a game-changer for anyone navigating the complexities of motherhood.  Don't miss this inspiring discussion—it's time to mother on your own terms! Resources: www.drgertrudelyons.com Dr. Gertrude Lyons on IG @drgertrudelyons Dr. Gertrude Lyons on YouTube @rewritethemothercode Dr. Gertude Lyons on LinkedIn @gertrudelyons Dr. Gertrude Lyons on Pinterest @drgertrudelyons Rewrite the Mother Code Podcast Rewrite the Mother Code by Dr. Gertrude Lyons Ed.D Follow Christy @theheartfulparent | Join the Heartful Parent Academy with code PODCAST

Do you ever find yourself getting overwhelmed or dysregulated when your child gets overwhelmed or dysregulated? Ah-hem, yes. We ALL do. And even though we may have the tools in our toolbox, it's challenging to use them in that exact right moment.  In this episode of the Heartful Parent Podcast, I'm talking mindfulness with with Dr. Christopher Willard, a clinical psychologist and author. We have a very heartful conversation about mindfulness and emotional regulation. We're digging into the power of being responsive rather than reactive — a skill every parent can benefit from.  Dr. Willard shares his own journey into mindfulness, offering simple, practical tips to make mindfulness an enjoyable and accessible part of daily life for both parents and kids. You'll also get a sneak peek into Dr. Willard's upcoming book, Feelings Are Like Farts, which uses (fart) humor to help kids better understand their emotions.  This lighthearted yet meaningful conversation is full of relatable insights and actionable advice, perfect for any parent looking to navigate the ups and downs of family life with a little more calm and connection. Tune in for a dose of mindfulness inspiration and share with another parent who may have a kiddo who laughs at farts.  Resources: drchristopherwillard.com Follow Dr. Chris Willard @drchriswillard on Facebook | Instagram Books: Growing Up Mindful by Christopher Willard Alphabreaths by Christopher Willard, PsyD Feelings Are Like Farts by Christopher Willard, PsyD 10% Happier: How I Tamed the Voice in My Head, Reduced Stress Without Losing My Edge and Found Self-Help That Actually Works by Dan Harris Real Happiness by Sharon Salzberg Full Catastrophe Living: Using the Wisdom of Your Body and Mind to Face Stress, Pain, and Illness by Jon Kabat-Zinn Follow Christy @theheartfulparent | Join the Heartful Parent Academy with code PODCAST

The research is showing us that our kids are not okay. They are anxious, depressed, and worried. We have to do something, and my guest today has one solution that is actually very simple.  Play! More unstructured, unsupervised, rough and tumble play time. I have Rusty Keeler, Playscape Designer and Author, joining me on the Heartful Parent Podcast today to break down all things play, playscapes, and the importance of letting our kids just BE. So. What is play? Why is it important? What happens when our kids don't get enough play? How do we help our teens and tweens play?  With over 30 years of experience in the field, Rusty shares his wisdom on the power of independent play for fostering resilience and emotional well-being in children. A “free-range” childhood has many benefits, including combating ever present anxiety and depression that haunts our kids, tweens, and teens.  Rusty is sharing insights for parents who want to nurture happier, healthier kids. Rusty and I also explore how we can design inclusive, natural play spaces that benefit not just younger children but also older kids and teens. Listen, and share, to help reimagine play and give your child the tools they need to thrive in a fast-paced world.   Resources: rustykeeler.com Adventures in Risky Play by Rusty Keeler Natural Playscapes by Rusty Keeler Seasons of Play by Rusty Keeler Rusty's FREE Outdoor Loose Parts Guide Rusty's Newsletter Play Nature Podcast Follow Rusty @rustykeelerdesigns Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn - @rustykeeler Follow Christy @theheartfulparent | Join the Heartful Parent Academy with code PODCAST

Have you ever considered how the way we parent connects to bigger societal systems like white supremacy, patriarchy, and capitalism?  In this episode of the Heartful Parent Podcast, I have the privilege of sitting down with Jen Lumanlan—host of Your Parenting Mojo podcast and author of Parenting Beyond Power—for a thought-provoking conversation about how traditional parenting methods can unknowingly reinforce these power structures.  Jen helps us see how discipline and authority play into these systems and explore how a more heartful, mindful approach to parenting can create lasting change in our families and beyond. Jen also points out how balancing our own needs with our kids' needs can actually foster connection, respect, and collaboration. And by recognizing the needs of others, we can in turn break down the power structures that are prevalent in everyday life right now. This episode is packed with insights and practical tools to help you rethink discipline, shift power dynamics, and create a home environment rooted in empathy and mutual understanding. Pass this episode along to at least 2 other parents, and you'll make a difference not only in your life and their lives, but it could begin to shift the world as a whole. Doesn't that sound pretty amazing?    Resources: yourparentingmojo.com yourparentingmojo.com/needs yourparentingmojo.com/quiz Parenting Beyond Power by Jen Lumanlan yourparentingmojo.substack.com White Women, Get Ready by Amanda Gross   Your Parenting Mojo Podcast episodes mentioned: 154: Authoritative isn't the best Parenting “Style 148: Is spanking a child really bad?   Follow Christy @theheartfulparent | Join the Heartful Parent Academy with code PODCAST

I am answering 2 listener questions in this episode of the Heartful Parent Podcast!  Question #1: What do we do when we are watching our teens & tweens navigate relationships? How much do you give advice and how much do you let them figure out on their own?  Young relationships can be tricky, and there is a lot to learn. So when do you step in? When do you stay out of it? My advice is to lean in with empathy and curiosity and then to ask a key question: what would you like to do to move forward?  Your teen will probably surprise you! Question #2: What should I do about my child's cussing?   Let's talk about modeling and setting boundaries, because guess what…you really can't control your child's language. You can control your reaction to it though, so let's start there.  Get your parenting question answered, email me christy@theheartfulparent.com   Rate, review, and share! We are not meant to parent alone.  Follow Christy @theheartfulparent | Join the Heartful Parent Academy with code PODCAST  

In this episode of the Heartful Parent Podcast, I'm welcoming the inspiring Dr. Deena Kara Shaffer, founder and CEO of Awakened Learning. Our conversation is packed with insights and actionable tips for uncovering learning strategies to help your kids learn HOW to learn.  AI can get a bad rap, but it is a truly powerful tool that can make a difference in helping our kids form study habits that can span across subject areas and support them as  students of all subjects, not just cramming for that chemistry test.  Deena shares strategies that support students, parents, and professionals in navigating the demands of learning and life. From time management to task prioritization and study techniques, she shares practical tools like AI-based assignment calculators and the power of breaking down overwhelming tasks into manageable steps. But it doesn't stop there! This episode is as much about connection as it is about strategy. Deena and I are totally on the same page as she highlights the value of building strong, supportive relationships in parenting and teaching.  There is more to come from Deena (and the podcast!) so make sure you're on my mailing list so you don't miss upcoming episodes and our book club based on Deena's books. Deena's Books: Feel Good Learning by Deena Kara Shaffer Feel Good Learning Academic Reflection Journal Raising Well Learners by Deena Kara Shaffer, PhD Resources: NotebookLM Magic ToDo: goblin.tools University of Toronto Assignment Calculator TED Talk: Tim Urban “Inside the Mind of a Master Procrastinator”  Deena's TEDx Talk: How to get from to-do to done:  Deena's Essentials Class: Learning Strategies for Students Follow Christy @theheartfulparent | Join the Heartful Parent Academy with code PODCAST

In this heartful episode of the Heartful Parent Podcast, I'm hoping to help you start off 2025 right by sharing the power of positive discipline, the support coaching can provide, and the incredible community within the Heartful Parent Academy.  I have the privilege to be joined by three amazing moms—Nicole, Kate, & Ali—who open up about their personal parenting journeys. They share the ups and downs, the lessons learned, and how one-on-one coaching and support through the Heartful Parent Academy have helped them embrace a more connected, intentional approach to parenting. I am honored to have walked alongside these awesome women on their parenting journey, and this conversation honestly feels like a chat among friends as these moms talk about the real-life impact of positive discipline, the importance of self-care, and how the Heartful Parent Academy's community has been a source of strength and inspiration.  In this episode, you'll find practical tips, encouragement, and reminders that no matter your situation, you do not have to parent alone.  Reach out. I would love to hear from you, christy@theheartfulparent.com Resources: theheartfulparent.com Get Academy support (Now through February 4, get 20% off our VIP option!): theheartfulparent.thrivecart.com/vipsale Set up a FREE coaching discovery call with Christy: heartfulsavvy.as.me/Discovery Follow Christy @theheartfulparent | Join the Heartful Parent Academy with code PODCAST

In this special two-part milestone episode of the Heartful Parent Podcast, I'm taking a walk down memory lane with the top 10 moments from the first 100 episodes of the podcast! These clips capture the messages I try to convey with each and every episode. It is my goal to fill your parenting toolbox, have thought-provoking conversations, and most of all empower you to parent with more love, joy, and connection. And most of all, to remind you each week that we were never meant to do this alone. Whether you've been with me from the beginning or are just starting your heartful parenting journey, this is the perfect episode to reflect on the lessons we've shared and the incredible community we've built.  I hope this two-part episode helps you revisit some fan-favorite interviews and reflect on some of ‘ah-ha!' and ‘what the f**k?' moments we've had on the pod. I'm so grateful for you, each and every listener that has listened, subscribed, and shared an episode with another parent. I look forward to the next 100 episodes of supporting you on this beautiful, messy, and rewarding parenting adventure! Follow Christy @theheartfulparent | Join the Heartful Parent Academy with code PODCAST Resources:  Childhood Narcissism by Dr. Mary Ann Little Positive Discipline by Dr. Jane Nelsen   Full Episdoes:  #10 Ep 71 | Conscious Parenting with Yolanda Williams #9 Ep 26 | Strangers Aren't the Problem with Paul Renfro #8 Ep 17 | Overwhelmed & Underwater: The Mental Load with Laura Danger #7 Ep 86 | No Apology Needed: Navigating Motherhood & Career with Megan Whiteside #6 Ep 30 | Are Sleepovers Safe?  #5 Ep 65 | Parenting in the Digital Age: Navigating Screens & Connections  with Joey Odom #4 Ep 27 | Be Heartful & Mindful When Posting Pictures Online with Fareedah Shaheed #3 Ep 53 | Don't Raise a Narcissist with Dr. Mary Ann Little #2 Ep 56 | Marriage, Parenting, & Personal Growth with Jonas Keating #1 Ep 2 | Positive Discipline with Dr. Jane Nelsen  

In this special two-part milestone episode of the Heartful Parent Podcast, I'm taking a walk down memory lane with the top 10 moments from the first 100 episodes of the podcast! These clips capture the messages I try to convey with each and every episode. It is my goal to fill your parenting toolbox, have thought-provoking conversations, and most of all empower you to parent with more love, joy, and connection. And most of all, to remind you each week that we were never meant to do this alone. Whether you've been with me from the beginning or are just starting your heartful parenting journey, this is the perfect episode to reflect on the lessons we've shared and the incredible community we've built.  I hope this two-part episode helps you revisit some fan-favorite interviews and reflect on some of ‘ah-ha!' and ‘what the f**k?' moments we've had on the pod. I'm so grateful for you, each and every listener that has listened, subscribed and shared an episode with another parent. I look forward to the next 100 episodes of supporting you on this beautiful, messy, and rewarding parenting adventure! Follow Christy @theheartfulparent | Join the Heartful Parent Academy with code PODCAST  Resources: NurtureShock New Thinking About Children by Po Bronson and Ashley Merryman How to Live Dangerously by Warwick Cairns Stranger Danger: Family Values, Childhood, and the American Carceral State by Paul Renfro   Full Episodes  #10 Ep 71 | Conscious Parenting with Yolanda Williams #9 Ep 26 | Strangers Aren't the Problem with Paul Renfro #8 Ep 17 | Overwhelmed & Underwater: The Mental Load with Laura Danger #7 Ep 86 | No Apology Needed: Navigating Motherhood & Career with Megan Whiteside #6 Ep 30 | Are Sleepovers Safe?

Let's build connection and embrace heartfulness this holiday season. Do you need a little help? In this episode of the Heartful Parent Podcast, I'm sharing holiday traditions that listeners shared with me!  I'm hoping you can walk away with something new to try, whether it's baking sugar cookies, honoring loved ones at cemeteries, creating a personalized advent calendar, starting the New Year with a family hike, or spreading cheer through ‘candy cane bombs' (it's harmless, I promise!) These simple yet powerful traditions could be just what you need to bring love, joy, and some heartfulness to your family's celebration this year. Resources: Old Salt Farm: Christmas Light Scavenger Hunt for Families Ask Amy: Readers should put a book on every bed Follow Christy @theheartfulparent | Join the Heartful Parent Academy with code PODCAST

Have you ever felt trapped in a moment of parenting, where your reaction just happens, and then afterward, you know you've screwed up? An eye roll, a slammed door, a snarky comment from your teen or tween just sets you off!?  Guess what? We've all been there. Really. In this episode of the Heartful Parent Podcast, my guest Mary Wilcox Smith, fellow parent coach, is explaining that there is actually science to back up what is going on in our kids' brains AND our reaction to it! That feels freeing to me. What about you? Mary is a seasoned parent coach and founder of the Micro-Step Method, which can help you make very small changes each day to overcome stress and frustration and nurture the connection you have with your kids.  Our conversation covers various 'parent traps,' the importance of repairing ruptures in relationships, and the effectiveness of small, consistent positive interactions (micro steps). Christy and Mary emphasize the importance of obtaining support as a parent and highlight practical tips for fostering resilience and connection with children. Resources: marysmithparentcoach.com Follow Mary on IG - @marysmithparentcoach Follow Mary on LinkedIn - @mary-wilcox-smith Join Mary's Facebook Group - @marysmithparentgroup The Microstep Method for the Overwhelmed Parent by Mary Wilcox Smith  Mary's FREE Download: mspc.cc/stopstruggles Toni Morrison: Does Your Face Light Up? | The Oprah Winfrey Show  Follow Christy @theheartfulparent | Join the Heartful Parent Academy with code PODCAST

Listener Question: How do I convince my partner, or my child's teacher, that traditional forms of punishment don't work? Get your parenting question answered, email me christy@theheartfulparent.com Rate, review, and share! We are not meant to parent alone.  The Heartful Parent Academy is a great way to find support. Use code PODCAST to get your first month for only $7. Join HERE.

Whether you're ready or not, the moment will eventually come when your kid starts to wonder 'Is Santa Real?' When they ask you, do you know what you'll say, how you'll handle it?  In this episode of the Heartful Parent Podcast, I'm encouraging you to keep the magic alive, even if your kids are past the believing stage. Don't let go of the hope or the spirit of what Santa represents. Instead, dig in with connection, share the reality, and invite them to help keep the magic going. How? Well, I'm here to help with that! I have a couple of books to share, a little bit of practical advice, and a few ways to help explain Santa in a loving and magical way. Use the inevitable conversation as a way to invite heartfulness and connection into your relationship and your holiday season.  I'm sure you know a parent who may also need a little guidance for the Santa conversation, pass this episode along to them. And if you need more support that is specialized to you, your family, and your situation, The Heartful Parent Academy is a great place for you. I would absolutely love to see you there.  Resources: How Judy Blume Nearly Ruined Christmas by Christy Keating [full Lucy letter included] Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus by Chris Plehal  Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus (Classic Version) by Frances P. Church   The (Wonderful) Truth About Santa by B.K. Gordon Love, Santa by Martha Brokenbrough (currently out of print)  

'Let bygones be bygones.' 'Forgive and forget.' These two common sayings are how many of us have been taught to view forgiveness. Sometimes those ways of “forgiving” just don't sit quite right. So, this episode of the Heartful Parent Podcast aims to shift that perspective a little bit. Forgiveness Coach, Brenda Reiss is my guest and she is here to help us explore the profound impact of forgiveness on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being, especially within the parenting space. Brends presents us with a 5-step process to redefine and embrace forgiveness. She emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and walks us through how to get to a place of peace and empowerment in our lives.  Brenda does not want you to let it go, forget it happened, or try to figure it out on your own, which makes this such a fascinating conversation. You'll walk away from this conversation ready to tackle radical forgiveness for yourself and feel empowered doing so.  Resources: brendareisscoaching.com Forgive Yourself Podcast  Forgive Yourself by Brenda Reiss Journey to Your Heart Space by Brenda Reiss @Brenda.Reiss.Coach on Facebook   @brendareisscoaching on Instagram  

Listener Question: How do we create a whole-family strategy? How do we choose and implement parenting strategies with both parents on board? Get your parenting question answered, email me christy@theheartfulparent.com Rate, review, and share! We are not meant to parent alone.  The Heartful Parent Academy is a great way to find support. Use code PODCAST to get your first month for only $7. Join HERE.

Sometimes life gives you lemons, sometimes it sends you a bomb cyclone! Well, for my family this week it was the bomb cyclone.  And while this situation came with its challenges, no power, no internet, no school, no way to record a brand new episode for you––there was a little bit of a silver lining around the clouds that lingered after the storm.  One, a chance to reflect on what's important as we approach U.S. Thanksgiving, the holiday all about gratitude. And two, the chance for me to pull a GREAT past episode out of the vault and polish it up for you this week.  In this fabulous throwback, I'm digging into all the benefits of inviting more gratitude into your life daily, weekly, and beyond.  I'm giving you the numbers of how an active gratitude practice benefits your emotional and social wellbeing and helps you get the D.O.S.E. chemicals that benefit your overall physical health.  BUT not all gratitude practices are created equal! While even just listing things you are grateful for can benefit your overall health, today I'm sharing some ways to take your gratitude practice a little deeper. And I'm giving you some ideas of things you could do to help deepen the connection you have with your family by inviting more gratitude into your lives.  No matter if it's lemons or a bomb cyclone, I'm here for you. I'd love to hear how you're inviting more gratitude into your life. Reach out, christy@theheartfulparent.com. And pass this episode along to someone you appreciate so they can invite more gratitude into their lives too.  Resources Ep 6 | Heartful Parenting Practice: Family Meetings  

Listener Question: How much should I push my child to succeed? Should I be a tiger mom? Am I doing her a disservice by being laid back and not pushing her to do more? Get your parenting question answered, email me christy@theheartfulparent.com Rate, review, and share! We are not meant to parent alone.  The Heartful Parent Academy is a great way to find support. Use code PODCAST to get your first month for only $7. Join HERE.  

Balancing parenthood with work and life demands a lot of our mental energy, which can end up leaving us feeling completely mentally depleted. If you're stuck in a place of negative emotions––feeling constant exhaustion, anger, or resentment––you may feel like you are trying to function with an empty tank. Your stress might feel chronic and inescapable. Can you relate? If you are nodding and thinking 'yes, that's me!', it may be burnout that you're experiencing. It's not a great place to be, but there is a way out.  In this episode of the Heartful Parent Podcast, I've invited Marissa McCool to join the conversation. Marissa is a renowned burnout coach, specializing in helping female leaders and mid-career professionals manage work stress and achieve work-life balance. Marissa shares her personal journey overcoming burnout and offers practical strategies for processing emotions, setting boundaries, and prioritizing self-care.  For parents who are juggling the stress of parenting alongside anything else that life throws at you, you'll find some really valuable tidbits in this conversation. Marissa and I highlight the connections between chronic stress, burnout, and its impacts on personal and professional relationships. Marissa also shares the signs of burnout and how to recognize if you are in burnout or you're just tired. We also both strongly believe seeking support is SO important to crawling out of burnout and finding a healthier balance. We cannot do this alone. This episode is a great place to start, so share it with another exhausted, possibly burnt-out, parent.  If you need more support, reach out! Marissa and I would both love to support you.  Resources: Marissa McKool on LinkedIn - @marissa-mckool mckoolcoaching.com  

Listener Question: How do I handle my teen's big feelings about boundaries, as she's going between two households? Get your parenting question answered, email me christy@theheartfulparent.com Rate, review, and share! We are not meant to parent alone.  The Heartful Parent Academy is a great way to find support. Use code PODCAST to get your first month for only $7. Join HERE.

Awww….Elf on the Shelf. One of those holiday traditions that maybe you grew up with, maybe you didn't––but come December 1st, pictures and posts of crazy shenanigans that all the happy little elves (SPIES!) are doing will be all over the place. Are you feeling pressure to join in the *fun* for the sake of your kids? Does this holiday tradition bring you–not your kids–but YOU joy? Does pressuring your kids to “be good” by having an elf spy on them foster love and connection during the holidays? I'm diving into this holiday tradition today, not to tell you to stop doing it, but to help you think about how it serves your family. If you would like to use “Shirley” the Elf or “Rocco” the Elf to create magic around your house during the holidays, more power to you! But as we do that, let's think about how we can use Shirley and Rocco to spread love, joy, connection, and heartfulness with our kids during the holiday season. And if you do not take part in the Elf on the Shelf tradition, don't worry! There are still some really insightful tips for you in this episode too! Positive Discipline and Heartfulness have a place in all seasons, no matter what you believe or how you celebrate. Listen and share as we dive into this busy time.   Resources: You Better Watch Out, You Better Not Cry: Positive Discipline and Elf on the Shelf

In this Heartful Bonus episode, I am coming to you to help bear the emotional weight we are feeling following the U.S. Presidential Election earlier this week. If you are grieving, feeling lost, wondering what to say to your kids, and how to move forward, I'm here to support you. I'm sharing my thoughts, the thoughts of a few others, and giving you a little guidance on what to say to our kids in light of the outcome. Thanks for joining me. If you need more support, reach out, christy@theheartfulparent.com. We are not in this alone.

Learning multiple languages can benefit our kids in more ways than just being able to speak two or more languages. Being bilingual, or multilingual, can give kids more confidence and increase their ability to use both sides of their brains. Above all else, it can give kids an understanding of other cultures and provide them with tools to navigate a multicultural world. Dr. Sugely Solano is an Administrator of Multilingual Learners and has over 16 years of experience as a school counselor, ESOL teacher, coordinator, and administrator of multilingual learners. As an English language learner and language enthusiast,  she advocates for multilingual learners' education. Dr. Solano collaborates with parents, teachers, and leaders in the school district where she works. Dr. Solano joins me on the Heartful Parent Podcast today to discuss the challenges she faced while pursuing her own education, which motivated her to become a school counselor and help others. Dr. Solano and I touch on the importance of bilingualism and the cultural and cognitive benefits of learning multiple languages. She also shares some advice for those listeners who would like to support your own child on their language-learning journey. You can connect with Sugely, sign up for her newsletter, and learn more about raising a language learner at raisinglanguagelearners.com. Resources: raisinglanguagelearners.com NEA Article: Why Pronouncing Students' Names Correctly is So Important  

Listener Question: How do I start difficult conversations when my teen just shuts down? Get your parenting question answered, email me christy@theheartfulparent.com Rate, review, and share! We are not meant to parent alone.  The Heartful Parent Academy is a great way to find support. Use code PODCAST to get your first month for only $7. Join HERE.  

Have you noticed that kids seem more anxious and overwhelmed than ever?  Doesn't it feel like parenting now poses unique and difficult challenges compared to generations before? How do we equip our kids to be resilient through all they will face in today's world? Laura Gaines, a mental health professional with decades of experience supporting kids, teens, and their parents, joins me on the Heartful Parent Podcast today. We're exploring resilience from many angles, including its psychological basis and its practical application in parenting.  Laura points us to lean into joy, meaning, and healthy routines to nurture resilience. We both agree that the broader goal is to raise well-adjusted adults, not just children.  Find Laura's comprehensive blog at learnmodelteach.com, full of tips and tools for growing resilience in your kids.  Resources: learnmodelteach.com Atlas of the Heart by Brene Brown Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl How to Raise an Adult Julie Lythcott-Haims  

Listener Question: How do we help our children stay authentic to themselves? Get your parenting question answered, email me christy@theheartfulparent.com Rate, review, and share! We are not meant to parent alone.  The Heartful Parent Academy is a great way to find support. Use code PODCAST to get your first month for only $7. Join HERE.  

I love October and I love Halloween. How about you? HOWEVER, the pumpkin patch, trunk-or-treating, and fall festival season can get a little overwhelming.  Well, rather than do All.The.Things, this year I'm inviting you to join me in taking back Halloween. And by that I mean, let your kids be kids, go out on October 31st and trick-or-treat to their little heart's desire.  Stop making Halloween more complicated and overwhelming by participating in more activities than bring you joy. Stop taking the fun out of Halloween by taking your child to alternate activities instead of around your own neighborhood, or a nearby neighborhood: on Halloween to go door to door.  It's actually really simple, and easy, to have a fun and safe Halloween. So let's dig into it! I hope this episode will help you have fun, feel like you can let your kids be kids, and balance fall fun with some time for yourself. Resources: Ep 38 | Halloween Myths BUSTED Ep 25 | STOP Saying Stranger Danger Ep 26 | Strangers Aren't the Problem with Dr. Paul Renfro  

Listener Question: How can I help my daughter, who is shy, feel more confident in making friends at her new secondary school where she doesn't know anyone? Resources:  Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking Quiet Power: The Secret Strengths of Introverts Get your parenting question answered, email me christy@theheartfulparent.com Rate, review, and share! We are not meant to parent alone.  The Heartful Parent Academy is a great way to find support. Use code PODCAST to get your first month for only $7. Join HERE.

Communicating with our teens is challenging, and I'm not talking about THE talks, I'm talking about the every day stuff: Did you get that project done? Do you have everything you need for soccer? Where are you going, who will be there, and when will you be back? These everyday conversations can cue eye rolls, sighs of frustration, and blank looks. And that doesn't feel like communication. I'm in the thick of this, and maybe you are too. Even if you're kids aren't teens yet, when it comes to learning the Dos and Don'ts of communicating––the earlier the better. So on this episode of the Heartful Parent Podcast, I'm sharing some essential DOs and DON'Ts in the hope that I can help you communicate better with your teens. You'll hear the importance of empathy and respect, the common mistakes we make as parents, and some practical suggestions you can implement right away to really get through to your teen. Finding ways to communicate about everyday stuff lays the groundwork for more sensitive conversations, which are inevitable at some point. It also helps our teens and young adult children turn toward us in difficult moments, instead of away from us. And isn't that the end goal?  Thank you for listening. Please share this episode with another parent, we are not meant to do this alone! I would love to hear from you if you could use more support like this. I work with parents both in one-on-one coaching and in the Heartful Parent Academy. Send me an email at christy@theheartfulparent.com. Resources: Ep 6 | Heartful Parenting Practice: Family Meetings theheartfulparent.com/heartful-parent-coaching theheartfulparent.com/heartful-parent-academy  

Get your parenting question answered, email me christy@theheartfulparent.com Rate, review, and share! We are not meant to parent alone. The Heartful Parent Academy is a great way to find support. Use code PODCAST to get your first month for only $7. Join HERE.

“The opposite of opting in is not opting out, it's living free.” --Erin Loechner  Does it seem like screens are totally taking over in your house? It feels almost impossible to put our phones and tablets aside when so much of our daily lives is completely dependent on staying connected. Does being connected through technology really give our kids that rich fulfilling childhood we're all striving for? In this episode of the Heartful Parent Podcast, I have Erin Loechner, author of The Opt-Out Family here to explore the benefits of a low-tech lifestyle, and how to really make that happen in our homes.  Erin shares her journey of going from being a social media influencer, with over a million followers, to embracing a more intentional tech-free life for herself and her family. There have definitely been challenges along the way, but there are ways to find a community that you can connect with and take the journey together.  This discussion with Erin will give you practical steps to reduce your family's dependence on screens, remind you of the importance of real-life interactions, and give you some tips and ideas of how to start with some really fun ideas for your kids.  Resources: optoutfamily.com  

Get your parenting question answered, email me christy@theheartfulparent.com Rate, review, and share! We are not meant to parent alone.  The Heartful Parent Academy is a great way to find support. Use code PODCAST to get your first month for only $7. Join HERE.

What steps can you take to get comfortable with being successful in your career AND being a parent? Is it even possible to do both, and do it well? Are you ready to let go of mom guilt and stop comparing yourself to others? In this episode of the Heartful Parent Podcast, I'm talking about it all with Megan Whiteside. Megan is a friend, a colleague, and a remarkable mom of four who is breaking down barriers for women in the law field.  I invited Megan on today to share her inspiring story of bringing her infant to two national legal conferences. But that is not all you're getting in this episode.  Megan is unapologetically shattering norms and reshaping perceptions around working motherhood. She is sharing the importance of setting boundaries and finding the people who are “her people” while leaving the rest behind. Megan shares the importance of learning to name her core values and how thoughtwork was the big shift she needed to start finding fulfillment in both motherhood and her professional life––at the same time.   You will walk away from this episode feeling inspired and encouraged, and hopefully being able to find the same fulfillment that Megan shares.  If you could use some help with your core values, I'd love to support you with some parent coaching or see you in The Heartful Parent Academy, where your Values Trio is one of the first things we work on.  Resources: whitesidelegal.com Megan on LinkedIn @megan-whiteside Megan on IG @momlifeandlaw Megan on Facebook @momlifeandlaw Whiteside Legal on Facebook @whitesidelegal Megan's full bio: Megan Whiteside is an experienced DC and Maryland trial lawyer, mom of four, law firm owner, national speaker, tv legal analyst, and podcast host of Mom Life and Law. She is a passionate advocate for her clients, as well as for fellow moms in the legal profession. Megan believes that representing the victims of nursing home neglect and their surviving families is a great honor and a great responsibility. She uses her skills in the courtroom and her prior experience on the defense to gain a competitive advantage in her nursing home abuse and neglect cases.  She currently serves as the co-chair of the Maryland Association for Justice's Nursing Home Section. She is an active member of the American Association for Justice's Nursing Home Litigation Group and The Nursing Home Trial Lawyers Association Top 10. She has been recognized as a Super Lawyers Rising Star in Maryland and DC. Megan is also an active member of the Women's Caucuses of the American Association for Justice, Maryland Association for Justice, and Trial Lawyers Association of Washington,  

Hey there, Heartful Parent listeners! In today's episode, we're diving deep into a topic that touches every single part of our lives as parents, partners, and professionals—effective time management. Now, before you roll your eyes and think, “Oh no, not another time management talk,” trust me, you'll want to stick around for this one. Time management can feel like an impossible dream, right? I get it! We're all juggling so much, and sometimes it seems like planning is just another thing we *don't* have time for. But today's episode brings a refreshing perspective that I think you're going to love! I had the pleasure of speaking with the amazing Megan Sumrell, the CEO and founder of The Pink Bee. Megan's a wife, mom, and business owner who truly understands the chaos of juggling it all. What's really special about her approach? She's not your typical productivity guru—Megan's all about practical, down-to-earth strategies that work for everyone, whether you're the super-organized type or, like many of us, just trying to keep your head above water. In our conversation, Megan shares her wisdom on how to achieve work-life harmony (not just balance!) through smart time management, organization, and productivity systems. Her tips are *so* relatable and actionable, and the best part? Megan is fun, real, and someone you'd totally want to grab a glass of wine with after a long day. Whether you're a stay-at-home parent, working outside the home, or a grandparent, Megan's advice is for everyone—even the busiest and most disorganized among us!    Key Takeaways: Time management isn't one-size-fits-all – Megan shares how her approach adapts to different lifestyles and needs, making it accessible for everyone. Work-life harmony vs. balance – Megan explains the difference and why harmony is the goal. Practical, doable tips – From systems that simplify your day to productivity hacks that even the busiest person can adopt. Fun and relatable – Megan's tips are realistic, grounded, and honestly just fun to hear! Thanks for tuning in! I hope you enjoyed this conversation as much as I did. If you found this episode helpful, don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review—we love hearing from you. And as always, take care and keep being the heartful parent you are!  Cheers, Christy   Links Mentioned: Plan a Palooza | Time Management for Creatives | Free Training to TOP Program https://www.megansumrell.com/a/2147912766/vtLAFmeT   Follow Us: https://theheartfulparent.com/heartful-parent-academy/   Facebook: @theheartfulparent Instagram @theheartfulparent Subscribe & Leave a Review: Don't forget to subscribe to The Heartful Parent Podcast and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!     Stay tuned for more Heartful conversations on parenting, love, and inclusivity. Thank you for listening!  

Hi friends! Welcome back to the Heartful Parent Podcast. This week, we're diving into an important but tough topic: child safety. Specifically, we're discussing child sexual abuse in educational settings. As parents, grandparents, and loved ones, it's our responsibility to ensure kids grow up brain and body safe. This episode might be triggering for some of you, especially if this is part of your history. If that's the case, please take care of your heart. Pause or come back when you're ready. Also, this episode isn't suitable for little ears, so if kids are around, come back to it later. If you're co-parenting, consider listening with your partner so you're both aligned on this critical topic. I'm honored to have Rosalia Rivera with us today. She's a consent and child sexual abuse prevention specialist, speaker, and co-founder of the BRAVE Movement. Rosalia's insights offer practical, empowering steps to help us protect our children and move from fear to action. Without further ado, let's get started!     Key Takeaways: How to protect kids from educator sexual misconduct Moving from fear to empowerment as a parent Practical steps to ensure kids are both brain and body safe Resources Mentioned: Rosalia Rivera's work: Consent Parenting https://www.consentparenting.com About Consent podcast Thanks for joining me today! If this episode was helpful, please share it and subscribe for more. Stay safe, and see you next week!   Follow Us: https://theheartfulparent.com/heartful-parent-academy/   Facebook: @theheartfulparent Instagram @theheartfulparent Subscribe & Leave a Review: Don't forget to subscribe to The Heartful Parent Podcast and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!     Stay tuned for more Heartful conversations on parenting, love, and inclusivity. Thank you for listening!  

Hey there, friends! Welcome back to the Heartful Parent Podcast, and a big warm welcome if you're tuning in for the first time. I'm so glad you're here!   Now, let's be real—wherever you go these days, you're probably hearing a lot about the upcoming presidential election. Whether it's through phone alerts, social media, the news, or even in conversations with friends, politics is on everyone's mind. And let's face it, regardless of which side of the aisle you're on, if you're in the U.S., you care deeply about what happens in November. Even if you're outside the U.S., you know how much this election can impact the world.  What You'll Learn in Today's Episode: Why we need to start talking to our kids about politics at home. How to make these conversations approachable and age-appropriate. Surprising statistics about what adults know (or don't know) about government. Practical tips for engaging your kids in discussions about civic responsibility. Lindsey also shares her journey in creating a massive database of congressional newsletters and gives us a sneak peek into the second half of her book, which simplifies politics for parents. This episode is not only thought-provoking but also super practical. Whether you're a political buff or someone who avoids the topic entirely, you're going to walk away with valuable insights.  Connect with Lindsey: www.lindseycormack.com www.howtoraiseacitizen.com  @howtoraiseacitizen   Follow Us: https://theheartfulparent.com/heartful-parent-academy/ Facebook: @theheartfulparent Instagram @theheartfulparent

If you've got a middle schooler, high schooler, or a kid heading off to college, this one's for you. And if you're feeling that mix of pride and panic as they head off into the world, you're in the right place. Today, I'm chatting with Carrie Pasquarello, the amazing CEO and co-founder of Global Secure Resources, Inc. Carrie's all about helping parents keep their kids safe at college and when studying abroad—definitely a topic close to many of our hearts.   Carrie has a fascinating background as a victim advocate and has worked with the State Department. She's turned all that experience into a mission to help families like ours navigate safety. From must-have conversations with your kids to practical tips like dorm room safety (did you ever think about the importance of bed railings? Neither did I!), Carrie's got us covered. She also wrote a fantastic book called Study Abroad Safety: A Parent's Guide to Sending Your Child Abroad, which is packed with insights to help us sleep a little better at night while our kids are off exploring the world.   This conversation is filled with valuable tips, whether your kiddo is about to start college or you just want to be prepared for the future. Carrie's passion for this topic shines through, and I think you'll walk away feeling a lot more confident about keeping your child safe as they step into this next chapter of their life.   Key Takeaways: Carrie Pasquarello shares her journey and expertise in safety and security. The crucial safety conversations you should have with your child before they head to college. Practical dorm room safety tips and products you might not have considered. Essential advice for keeping your child safe while studying abroad.   Resources Mentioned:- Study Abroad Safety: A Parent's Guide to Sending Your Child Abroad by Carrie Pasquarello. - Global Secure Resources, Inc. https://www.globalsecurestudent.com/ https://globalsecureresources.com/  - Have a parenting question? Email Christy: christy@theheartfulparent.com   Thanks for tuning in! I can't wait to chat with you again next week on the Heartful Parent Podcast! Follow Us: https://theheartfulparent.com/heartful-parent-academy/   Facebook: @theheartfulparent Instagram @theheartfulparent Subscribe & Leave a Review: Don't forget to subscribe to The Heartful Parent Podcast and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!     Stay tuned for more Heartful conversations on parenting, love, and inclusivity. Thank you for listening!  

In this episode, I'm thrilled to introduce you to Dr. Melanie McNally. We crossed paths a few months ago through mutual contact, and from our very first conversation, I knew we were on the same page about how to best support parents and their teenagers. But here's the thing—while Dr. McNally's work focuses on parents of tweens and teens, there's a ton of value here for parents with younger kids too. We talk a lot on this show about parenting with the end in mind, and this episode is a perfect example of why that's so important. Links Mentioned in this Episode: BOOKS: Melanie's book: Helping Your Unmotivated Teen: A Parent's Guide to Unlock Your Child's Potential https://amzn.to/3AsC96Y The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt: https://amzn.to/4doaAKJ iGen: Why Today's Super-Connected Kids Are Growing Up Less Rebellious, More Tolerant, Less Happy—And Completely Unprepared for Adulthood (and What that Means for the Rest of Us) by Jean m. Twenge, Ph.D  https://amzn.to/3WUqWDR The New Adolescence: Raising Happy and Successful Teens in an Age of Anxiety and Distraction by Christine Carter PhD https://amzn.to/3YVqNTg   GIVEAWAY LINK: https://www.destinationyou.net/podcast-giveaway Facebook: @theheartfulparent Instagram @theheartfulparent  

As summer winds down, I hope you're settling into the new school year with ease, whether your kids are already back in class or you're soaking up the last few weeks of summer. After a break, I'm thrilled to kick off the fall season with some amazing guests and content that you've come to expect from the Heartful Parent Podcast. Our guest today is Tosha Schore, the founder of Parenting Boys Peacefully. If you're parenting girls, don't tune out! Tosha's insights are universal and relevant, regardless of your child's gender. The way boys are raised impacts everyone, including girls, so this episode is for all parents. Key Takeaways: Tosha's Mission: Tosha is dedicated to creating a more peaceful world by nurturing boys with empathy and emotional intelligence. Universal Lessons: The strategies Tosha shares apply to all children, emphasizing the importance of connection, setting loving limits, and using play as a tool for growth. Broader Impact: How we raise boys affects the experiences of girls and non-binary children, making Tosha's work crucial for everyone. Expertise and Reach: Tosha has co-authored the book Listen: Five Simple Tools to Meet Your Everyday Parenting Challenges, and her work has been featured on numerous platforms, including Dr. Shefali's Parenting Mastery Summit. Why Listen? Tosha's wisdom goes beyond parenting boys; it's about creating a compassionate world where all children can thrive. Whether you're raising boys, girls, or non-binary kids, this episode offers valuable insights to help you on your parenting journey. Links Mentioned in this episode: Book: Listen: Five Simple Tools to Meet Your Everyday Parenting Challenges (https://amzn.to/3At2ZMw Connect with Tosha: https://parentingboyspeacefully.com/reconnect/ Tune in and join us for this insightful conversation with Tosha Schore! Connect with us!   https://theheartfulparent.com/heartful-parent-academy/   Facebook: @theheartfulparent Instagram @theheartfulparent Subscribe & Leave a Review: Don't forget to subscribe to The Heartful Parent Podcast and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!     Stay tuned for more Heartful conversations on parenting, love, and inclusivity. Thank you for listening!  

  In this episode of the Heartful Parent Podcast, we're diving into a topic that hits home for many families—sibling rivalry. With the summer winding down and school either starting or just around the corner, the dynamics between siblings can often become more tense. Whether your kids are getting on each other's nerves or engaging in outright fights, it's a common challenge that many parents face. Christy Keating shares her insights on why sibling rivalry happens, how we might inadvertently contribute to it as parents, and practical strategies for fostering a more peaceful environment at home. Tune in for thoughtful advice that can help you manage sibling conflicts and maintain your sanity!   Key Takeaways: Understanding Sibling Rivalry: Explore the underlying reasons why sibling rivalry occurs and how family dynamics might contribute to it. Parental Influence: Learn how parents may inadvertently create or exacerbate sibling conflicts. Practical Strategies: Discover actionable tips and strategies to reduce tension and promote harmony between siblings. Real-Life Examples: Hear about Christy's personal experiences with her own children and how she navigates sibling rivalry in her household. Managing Expectations: Understand that even with the best intentions, sibling conflicts are natural and can be managed with patience and the right approach.    This episode is perfect for any parent looking to better understand and manage sibling rivalry, especially as the summer comes to a close and the school year begins.   Links Mentioned in this Episode: theheartfulparent.com Facebook: @theheartfulparent Instagram @theheartfulparent Subscribe & Leave a Review: Don't forget to subscribe to The Heartful Parent Podcast and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!     Stay tuned for more Heartful conversations on parenting, love, and inclusivity. Thank you for listening!  

Today we're sharing an interview from the 2024 Safe Parenting Summit. Feather Berkower joins me to discuss teaching body safety to children and teens. Feather is a licensed clinical social worker and holds a Master's of Social Welfare from the University of California, Berkeley. She has been a leader in child sexual abuse prevention since 1985 and has educated nearly one-hundred fifty thousand schoolchildren, parents and youth professionals. Her well-regarded workshop, Parenting Safe Children, empowers adults to keep children safe from sexual assault. Feather believes that adults are responsible for protecting children from sexual assault. Feather makes this difficult topic less scary, and consistently impresses audiences with her knowledge, commitment, and warmth. Key Takeaways: Importance of Language: Understand the impact of the words we use when discussing safety with children. Do's and Don'ts: Learn which terms to use and which to avoid to ensure clear and effective communication. Empowering Parents: Feather emphasizes that parents are the best conduits for delivering safety information to their children. Practical Advice: Feather provides actionable tips and strategies to help parents navigate these challenging conversations. Links Mentioned in this Episode:   parentingsafechildren.com   Facebook: @parentingsafechildren Instagram @parentingsafechildren   theheartfulparent.com   Facebook: @theheartfulparent Instagram @theheartfulparent Subscribe & Leave a Review: Don't forget to subscribe to The Heartful Parent Podcast and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!     Stay tuned for more Heartful conversations on parenting, love, and inclusivity. Thank you for listening!  

Hey there, podcast listeners! Welcome back to another episode of the Heartful Parent Podcast. I'm thrilled you're here, especially as we're in the thick of summer. I hope you're finding some time for rest, relaxation, and connecting with your kids in fun and meaningful ways.  I'm currently on vacation with my family, so this week, I'm bringing you an interview that originally aired during the 2023 Safe Parenting Summit.  This conversation is with the incredibly knowledgeable and impactful Renée Hopkins, CEO of the Alliance for Gun Responsibility. During our conversation we discuss: Importance of body safety and gun responsibility. Fact-based discussion on gun safety. Non-judgmental approach to gun ownership. Actionable tools and tips for keeping children safe.   Renee's organization is based in Seattle, but their insights and recommendations are valuable no matter where you live. She shares fact-based, non-judgmental, actionable tools to help keep your children safer. Links Mentioned in this Episode:   gunresponsibility.org   Facebook: @AllianceforGunResponsibility Instagram @allianceforgunresponsibility   theheartfulparent.com Facebook: @theheartfulparent Instagram @theheartfulparent Subscribe & Leave a Review: Don't forget to subscribe to The Heartful Parent Podcast and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!     Stay tuned for more Heartful conversations on parenting, love, and inclusivity. Thank you for listening!  

I'm thrilled to share an insightful interview with Lenore Skenazy, originally conducted for the 2023 Safe Parenting Summit. Lenore, the author of *Free Range Kids* and founder of the Let Grow Foundation, discusses the importance of fostering children's independence. Last week, I talked about helping kids grow their confidence and competence. Reflecting on a recent airport incident where my daughter wasn't allowed to fly alone, I thought of this conversation. Lenore and I explore why we should stop fear-based parenting and allow our children to develop resilience and problem-solving skills. Whether you've heard it before or it's your first time, this interview is packed with valuable insights. Enjoy and thanks for joining me!  During our conversation we discuss: The Importance of childhood Independence Cultural shifts and Parenting Anxiety Balancing Safety and Autonomy Redefining Intelligence and Encouraging Practical Skills Impact of Technology on Parenting Promoting Independence through Let Grow  Tune in to hear Lenore Skenazy's inspiring insights and practical advice on fostering childhood independence. Discover how giving children the freedom to explore can contribute to their growth and well-being, helping them become resilient and confident individuals.   Links Mentioned in this Episode: Connect with Lenore https://www.freerangekids.com/ Let Grow https://letgrow.org/ Subscribe & Leave a Review: Don't forget to subscribe to The Heartful Parent Podcast and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!     Stay tuned for more Heartful conversations on parenting, love, and inclusivity. Thank you for listening!  

To help kids become more independent, it's great to encourage their autonomy, give them responsibilities, and offer meaningful encouragement. Things like sleepaway camps and job roles can really boost their confidence and resilience, setting them up for future success. Just recently, my daughter went to sleepaway camp, and I've got a funny story to share about her experience getting there. We'll also be chatting about various ways you can help your children build their competence, capability, and confidence.   In this episode you'll learn: 2:34 Story time from my own life 12:06 The impact of parenting on children's confidence 14:01 The problem lies with adults 15:02 Suggestions for building kids' confidence 29:24 The significance of fostering independence 33:31 Suggestions for building life skills in kids 41:44 The larger purpose behind parenting strategies 46:48 Let's do better in our own homes   Subscribe & Leave a Review: Don't forget to subscribe to The Heartful Parent Podcast and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!     Stay tuned for more Heartful conversations on parenting, love, and inclusivity. Thank you for listening!  

Today, we're diving into a really important topic: the impact of pornography on children. We've got two amazing guests with us, Amy Lang and Casey O'Roarty, to help unpack this. We're seeing some worrying trends with kids being exposed to explicit content online, and it's more important than ever for parents to step in and have open, honest conversations. We'll talk about the role of proactive parenting and the neurological effects of pornography on young minds.  Plus, we'll discuss the importance of teaching kids about consent and critical thinking to counter harmful stereotypes. Our chat also touches on the broader societal implications, encouraging parents to have conversations that align with their personal values. We'll highlight the need for ongoing monitoring and filtering of online content, and we'll inspire parents to take action in fostering healthy relationships and tackling tough topics like pornography with joyful courage.   In this episode you'll learn: 0:00 Introduction 13:53 Hidden Pornography 20:19 Impact of Brain Development 22:51 Breaking the "Not My Kid" Mentality 25:59 Initiating Conversations about Pornography 31:45 Shifting Perspectives: Pornography Consumers 35:00 The Role of Parents to Protect their Child 36:34 Connecting Pornography to Transactional Sex 46:42 Final Thought on Pornography and Kids Links Mentioned in this Episode:  Casey O'Roarty Joyful Courage Podcast besproutable.com/teens www.facebook.com/joyfulcourage IG - @joyful_courage   Amy Lang Birds+Bees+Kids Podcast birdsandbeesandkids.com www.facebook.com/birdsbeeskids IG - @birdsandbeeskids   Subscribe & Leave a Review: Don't forget to subscribe to The Heartful Parent Podcast and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!     Stay tuned for more Heartful conversations on parenting, love, and inclusivity. Thank you for listening!  

Hi Friends,  If you've listened to the podcast for any period of time, you've heard me talk about positive discipline and relationship and the importance of parenting in a different way than we were likely parented and we're going to dig into that and even more detail today with my guest, who I'm so thrilled to introduce you to Reem Raouda Reem is a certified conscious parenting coach certified through Dr. Shafali Sabari's program, and she is the parent of a strong willed child and the founder of the Connected Discipline Method, which is a coaching program for parents of strong willed children. And what she and I really dig into in this conversation is discipline and what does discipline look like when we are not coming at parenting from an authoritarian sort of traditional approach, but what, how we do it or what discipline looks like, how we think about discipline when we are being more conscious, intentional, gentle, positive parents.   In this episode you'll learn 0:27 Introduction to Positive Parenting 1:23 Reimagining Discipline 6:37 Common Parenting Mistakes 10:58 The Importance of Connection 20:37 Adjusting expectations and Tone 30:25 Understanding Children's Capacities 34:53 Nurturing Environments for Growth   Links Mentioned in this Episode:  Follow Reem Raouda:  Website:  https://www.highloveparenting.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/highloveparenting Subscribe & Leave a Review: Don't forget to subscribe to The Heartful Parent Podcast and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!     Stay tuned for more Heartful conversations on parenting, love, and inclusivity. Thank you for listening!  

Whether you are the parent of an LGBTQIA+ kiddo or you don't know yet whether or not you are the parent of an LGBTQIA+ kiddo, or you have an LGBTQIA+ family member, neighbor, friend, or colleague you're going to want to tune into today's episode.  I'm talking with Susan Cottrell. Susan is an international speaker and passionate advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community. Susan shares her personal journey of accepting and supporting her LGBTQ children, despite the conservative teachings of her evangelical church. She discusses how her deep faith led her to deconstruct harmful religious teachings and embrace values of love, empathy, compassion, inclusion, justice, and kindness. You'll Learn:  0:27 Introduction to Today's Issue 1:47 Susan's Faith Journey 11:53 Deconstructing Faith 24:13 Importance of Pride Month 29:19 Engaging in Productive Conversations 31:53 Love Your Neighbor Principle 35:25 Reasonable Approach to Acceptance 40:42 Starting the Deconstructing Process 45:12 Bible as a Story, Not a Rule Book 46:09 Bible as a Vehicle for Oppression 47:06 Spreading Radical Love 47:51 Conclusion and Gratitude   Thank you so much for being with me today and for listening to this conversation. I know religion is not something I typically dive into on The Heartful Parent Podcast, but I felt like this was a conversation that was worth having here during Pride Month, and just in general as we, as those of use who do choose to love unconditionally and unequivocally work to protect all of us who are LGBTQIA+ from being vilified and being scapegoated as we move forward in the year 2024 and beyond.  And let us know how you're celebrating Pride Month where you live! Links Mentioned in this Episode:  Follow Susan Cottrell: https://www.freedhearts.org/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/freedhearts/id1533444664 https://www.youtube.com/stcottrell https://www.instagram.com/freedheart Subscribe & Leave a Review: Don't forget to subscribe to The Heartful Parent Podcast and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!     Stay tuned for more Heartful conversations on parenting, love, and inclusivity. Thank you for listening!  

Hey everyone! Welcome to The Heartful Parent Podcast. Today, we have an amazing episode lined up with the incredible Yolanda Williams, a conscious parenting coach and social justice instructor.   We dive into the world of conscious parenting and talk about how we can raise socially aware kids through meaningful conversations about race and privilege.   Yolanda will be sharing her personal journey and discussing why inclusivity is so crucial in parenting spaces, especially after the tragic events surrounding George Floyd's murder.   Wel chat about the ups and downs of parenting, the importance of having open discussions about race with our children, and the ways society shapes our parenting experiences. You won't want to miss it! You'll Learn: 0:29 Introduction 3:36 Welcoming Yolanda Williams to the Podcast 4:13 Yolanda's Journey to Parenting Decolonized 9:09 Reflections on Shifts Post- George Floyd's Murder 12:47 The Shift from Gentle Parenting to Conscious Parenting 15:48 The Challenge of White Activism Fatigue 20:04 Urgency for While Parent Coaches to Address Race 23:18 Addressing Difficult Conversations on Police Brutality 23:55 The Essential Conversations 27:33 Revisiting Conscious Parenting 31:25 The True COnscious Parenting Approach 38:04 Embracing Freedom Through Feeling 40:10 From Surviving to Thriving 42:56 The Hardest Job with No Vacation 45:35 Making Real Systemic Changes Connect with Yolanda: https://www.instagram.com/prntgdcolonized/ https://parentingdecolonized.com   Join the Conversation: We'd love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Share your experiences and connect with other parents in our community. Follow us on Instagram and use the hashtag #HeartfulParentPodcast to join the discussion. Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us bring more heartful content to parents like you. Tune in next week for another inspiring episode of The Heartful Parent Podcast!  

Hey, friends and podcast listeners! Welcome back to another episode of the Heartful Parent Podcast. I'm so excited to be here with you today.   If you've been listening for a while, we don't just discuss parenting here. As I always say, we wear a lot of hats—we're people, partners, professionals, and so much more. That's why I love exploring various topics on the pod.    This week, I'm particularly thrilled to introduce someone truly inspirational: my friend, colleague, mentor, and teacher, Kristi Rible. Kristi is the founder and CEO of The Human Group and is dedicated to humanizing the workplace by preparing leaders for a future that demands flexibility, empathy, trust, connection, and psychological safety. She champions a diverse, equitable, and inclusive representation of our collective humanity.   Kristi's international leadership experience spans over 25 years, covering technology and consumer products in public and startup ventures across the US, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. She is a fierce advocate for the advancement of women, which is how I met her through her Stanford course, "Motherhood and Work." She teaches an incredible class once a year, and it's open to continuing ed students. It is conducted remotely so that you can join from anywhere.    Kristi holds an impressive array of credentials, including an MBA in International Business from Thunderbird and Arizona State University, a BA in African Studies and Classical Archaeology from Franklin and Marshall College, and Executive Certifications in Organizational Gender Balance from INSEAD, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from Cornell, Executive Coaching from UC Berkeley, and the Fair Play Method.   In today's conversation, Kristi and I dive into the power of language, the modern movements and setbacks affecting parents, mothers, and women in particular, and so much more. I'm super excited to share this enlightening discussion with you.    So, without further ado, let's dive into my conversation with Kristi Rible.   Connect with Kristi https://www.thehuumangroup.com   https://www.kristirible.com   Join the Conversation: We'd love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Share your experiences and connect with other parents in our community. Follow us on Instagram and use the hashtag #HeartfulParentPodcast to join the discussion. Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us bring more heartful content to parents like you. Tune in next week for another inspiring episode of The Heartful Parent Podcast!  

Parenting in public can be HARD. Rachael Fritz, founder of Parenting on Mars, joins me and we discuss parenting in public spaces. Rachael, a mom of three and a former preschool teacher, brings her wealth of knowledge to the table, sharing practical tips and heartfelt advice for handling challenging parenting moments outside the home. In This Episode: Maintaining Boundaries in Public: Rachael discusses the importance of sticking to your parenting values, even when others are watching. She shares strategies for being prepared and setting clear expectations with your kids. Generational Patterns and Triggers: We dive into the impact of our own upbringing on our parenting style. Rachael provides insight on recognizing and addressing these influences to become more mindful parents. Parenting Out Loud: Learn about the concept of parenting out loud, where open discussions with your children about decisions and actions can foster transparency and accountability. Dealing with Judgment: Rachael offers advice on handling criticism from family members and partners, emphasizing the need to stay true to your values rather than conforming to societal pressures. Rachael's candid insights and practical advice will leave you feeling empowered and ready to tackle parenting challenges with confidence. Connect with Rachael: Website: Parenting on Mars Instagram: @ParentingOnMars Join the Conversation: We'd love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Share your experiences and connect with other parents in our community. Follow us on Instagram and use the hashtag #HeartfulParentPodcast to join the discussion. Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us bring more heartful content to parents like you. Tune in next week for another inspiring episode of The Heartful Parent Podcast!

Today, I want to chat about something that might not be the picture-perfect family life we often imagine: divorce. We all envision a loving, committed partnership raising happy kids, but for many, that's not the reality. If you're in a relationship that's run its course or has turned negative, you might be wondering if staying for the kids is the right choice or how to move forward. I recently spoke with Kim Korven, who's been through it all – a retired lawyer and judge, mom, divorcee, and judo coach. Kim's approach to divorce is different. She doesn't treat it as just a legal issue. Instead, she helps parents see themselves as the CEOs of their families, using divorce as a tool to improve relationships and help everyone thrive, even in tough situations like dealing with coercive control, narcissism, or mental health challenges. We talked about: Kim's own divorce journey and how she kept her kids' well-being front and center. The real impact of divorce on kids and how to create a healthy environment for them, even if it means ending a bad relationship. Tips for communicating with a partner who might not be on the same page. Making choices that honor everyone's well-being. Divorce isn't ideal, but sometimes it's necessary.  Divorce isn't ideal, but sometimes it's necessary. Our conversation with Kim is packed with insights on how to navigate this tough time with your kids' best interests at heart and maintain healthy communication. Even if divorce isn't on your horizon, there's a lot here about relationships and communication that can benefit anyone. If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with anyone who might need Kim's wisdom. New episodes drop every Tuesday. Until next time, stay heartful and intentional in your parenting and relationships. Cheers, Christy   Links & Resources Mentioned in this episode: Kim Korven's YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiHQSHzsPT9S2AzOC8EIaRA Flow Chart for Amicable Divorce: https://www.kimkorven.com/free-gift Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/theheartfulparent