The Parenting Junkie Show

STOP THE SPIRAL — Day 3: The "Too Much" Spiral Why does everything feel like it's too much? Too many needs, too many tabs open, too many things only YOU seem to remember? Today we're breaking the "mental load myth" wide open — the belief that you have no choice, everything depends on you, and the only options are Superwoman or Bitter Martyr. No one chained you to the kitchen sink. You do have choices — even if they're imperfect ones. In this workshop, I'll show you: • why unconscious yeses create overload • how culture trained women to see themselves as victims of the mental load • why resentment grows when you believe you have "no choice" • how to reclaim your agency with clearer choices, boundaries, and leadership • how to delegate without guilt and simplify without shame You'll leave today feeling lighter, clearer, and more in control of your energy and your home.

STOP THE SPIRAL — Training 2: The Let-Down Spiral Today we're tackling one of the biggest sources of resentment in motherhood: when the people you love let you down. Your partner forgets something, your child ignores a request, your in-law makes a comment—and suddenly you're spiraling. In this workshop, I'll show you why nagging doesn't work, why doing everything yourself makes things worse, and why neither option actually solves the problem. You'll learn the third way: keeping your standards high while lowering resentment and raising collaboration. We'll talk about the cultural trap of labeling everyone "toxic," the real reason you feel alone in your home, and how to step into the leadership your family needs—without becoming the angry parent or the exhausted martyr. Download the Day 2 worksheet here:

Feeling triggered, tense, or like you're one tiny thing away from snapping? You're not alone — and you're not broken. You're simply at capacity. In this special episode, I'll show you how to stretch that capacity so triggers stop owning you. In this workshop, you'll learn: ✨ Why traditional "stop, drop, and breathe" advice doesn't work when you're overwhelmed ✨ The real reason you spiral — and how to interrupt it fast ✨ The ONE shift that instantly increases emotional capacity ✨ 3 practical, evidence-backed tools you can use TODAY ✨ How to stay calm, clear, and in control — even when kids, partners, and life get a lot This isn't years of therapy. This isn't spiritual bypassing. This is capacity-building — the skill every modern parent needs.

Are adults really "messing up the world"… or have we created the safest, richest, healthiest era in human history? In this episode, I debunk the doom narrative that's crushing our kids' resilience — and explain why gratitude, realism, and strength are the real gifts we should be giving the next generation. We'll talk about: - Why the narrative of "adults messed up the world" is false - How doom, pessimism, and fear harm children's mental health - The real purpose of childhood (hint: it's NOT endless happiness) - How to raise kids who are grateful, strong, antifragile, and capable - Why perspective, responsibility, and resilience protect mental health - What we should tell our kids about the world — and their role in it If you want your home to be a place of strength, gratitude, and resilience — not doom or fragility — join The Studio. https://hifam.com/studio Dive deeper with me: Get personalized, high-level guidance to transform your family, marriage, and mindset — work with me privately.

Everyone is being pushed to pick a side — feminist or traditional, gentle or strict, self-care or self-sacrifice. In this episode, I'm breaking down why the BEST marriages, families, and kids are built by people who learn to hold two truths at once, instead of joining an extreme camp. Dive deeper with me: Get personalized, high-level guidance to transform your family, marriage, and mindset — work with me privately.

Your child was resilient… so why does it feel like it all disappeared overnight? In this livestream, I'm answering three real questions from our HiFam community — and each one touches a deep, modern pain point for parents. We're diving into:

When something bad happens to my kids — a fight with a friend, a missed goal, a tough day — I don't rush to fix it. I'm actually… a little happy.

Modern dating is broken — and no one wants to admit why. We traded commitment for convenience, love for validation, and real connection for swipes on a screen. In this episode, I'm breaking down exactly how the dating system collapsed — and what we can teach our sons and daughters to do instead.

If you're ready to want your husband again... not out of duty, but true desire...! Then Desire Lab is built for you - https://hifam.com/desire , my membership for women who want to bring back passion, polarity, and partnership in marriage. He's the main provider… so why do you still feel angry when he gets to rest? In this special recording, I unpack one of the most common (and taboo) relationship triggers for modern women — resentment. We'll talk about: - The invisible scorecard in relationships - How to know if you're owning your choices or secretly blaming your partner - Why "helping" isn't the same as partnership - How to ask for support without keeping emotional receipts - And what to do when he doesn't do it "right" If you've ever muttered "must be nice…" under your breath while folding laundry — this one's for you.

If you're tired of screen battles, Reclaim Play (https://reclaimplay.com) will help you build a home where kids actually want to live offline again. Every parent has been there — your kid sneaks an iPad, cracks the passcode, or watches “just one more episode.” What do you do next? In this episode, we'll talk about how to respond when your child breaks your screen-time rules — without yelling, shaming, or losing connection. I'll show you how to turn these moments into lessons in trust, honesty, and emotional growth, so screens stop being a source of conflict and become a chance to strengthen your family culture.

►► Get your kid playing for hours a day in just 3 weeks, no screens needed: https://reclaimplay.com Ever wonder how much screen time is “okay” for your kids? The rules change as they grow — and without a clear blueprint, it's easy to spiral into guilt, panic, or constant battles.   In this episode, I'll walk you age by age (from babies all the way through teens) and show you the clear, big-picture boundaries that protect your child's brain, body, and relationships — while keeping your family culture stronger than screen culture.   And when you're ready to go deeper: The Studio –  create a meaningful family life - https://hifam.com/studio Married-U – build a thriving marriage - https://married-u.com Desire Lab – reignite chemistry & attraction - https://hifam.com/desire    

Want your kids to play for hours without begging for a device? That's exactly why I created Reclaim Play → https://reclaimplay.com/course. Because when kids are lit up by play, screens stop being the only exciting option. You don't just want kids who put down their devices — you want kids who feel truly alive without them. The laughter, the imagination, the spark that doesn't need a screen to survive. Yet, the hard truth is... if life at home feels dull, screens will always win. That's why this episode isn't about policing devices — it's about creating a family culture so rich and magnetic that screens lose their grip. We'll peel back why kids (and parents) default to scrolling, what makes “just setting limits” fail every time, and how to make real life irresistible again. Because the real question isn't how much screen time is too much… it's what are our kids living for instead? And when you're ready to go deeper: Reclaim Play – spark independent play - https://reclaimplay.com Married-U – build a thriving marriage - https://married-u.com Desire Lab – reignite chemistry & attraction - https://hifam.com/desire

You worry your kids are addicted to screens. But deep down… you know you might be, too. The endless scrolling, the quick escapes, the way it steals presence from your family—it's not just their problem. That's why I created Reclaim Play → https://reclaimplay.com/course — to help parents raise kids who can play independently, without needing a screen to stay entertained. Because when play is thriving at home, screen time doesn't have to run the show. In this episode, we're facing the truth about screen struggles and talking about what it takes to break free: ✅ How parental screen habits shape kids more than any rule ever could  ✅ The hidden ways we use screens as parents ✅ Why screen struggles are less about tech—and more about leadership ✅ Practical steps to reset your family's digital culture This is the first episode in a new series on screens and family life—helping you raise kids who thrive beyond the screen. ✨ Want more tools to simplify family life? Explore: Reclaim Play – independent play without screens https://reclaimplay.com Married-U – strengthen your marriage https://married-u.com Desire Lab – reignite attraction & connection in your marriage https://hifam.com/desire

Culture is shaping how we see marriage, parenting, and even desire itself. That's why I created Desire Lab (https://hifam.com/desire ) — my membership for women who want to reignite polarity, attraction, and chemistry in long-term relationships, even when cultural messages push the opposite. Today, I'm unpacking those same culture-wide forces and how they're driving birth rates down across the West. We're told it's about money, stability, or timing… but are those really the reasons? Or is something deeper happening beneath the surface? If you've ever questioned whether parenthood is still worth it — or felt the tension between culture's messages and your own longings — this episode is for you.

More and more women are quietly asking the same question: is motherhood even worth it anymore? Between the sacrifices, the cultural critiques, and the pressure to “have it all,” the question doesn't come with an easy answer. That's why I created The Studio (https://hifam.com/studio) — my membership where I help women design family cultures that feel joyful, resilient, and rooted in what actually matters. Because when your foundation at home is strong, everything else in life feels more grounded. But here's the tension: our culture often paints motherhood in extremes. Either it's glorified as the only path to meaning, or dismissed as a burden that drains your best years. Neither story captures the full truth. In this episode, I want to explore that tension. Let's talk honestly about the costs, the rewards, and the deeper transformations of parenthood — without giving you a packaged answer. Because this isn't about telling you what to choose, it's about asking the right questions. And if you're ready to go deeper — to rebuild your mindset, rediscover play in your home, or strengthen your marriage — you'll find that inside Alchemize (https://hifam.com/alchemize), Reclaim Play (https://reclaimplay.com), and Married U (https://married-u.com).

When desire goes offline, everything in marriage feels harder. That's why I created Desire Lab (https://hifam.com/desire) — my ongoing membership that helps women reignite polarity, chemistry, and attraction. Because when the spark is alive, conflict shrinks, connection grows, and everything else gets easier. But here's the problem: today, so many couples are talking about their marriages in clinical terms. Words like unsafe, gaslighting, narcissism, or stonewalling have crept into everyday conversations — and instead of bringing couples closer, they often drive them further apart.   In this episode, I share the five most common “diagnoses” put on marriages — and why those labels make things worse. More importantly, I'll show you how to replace them with clear, honest, and practical ways of communicating that lead to repair, grace, forgiveness, and forward motion. Because your marriage isn't a pathology. It's a living relationship. And when you're ready to go deeper and actually build the marriage of your dreams with the partner you already have, that's exactly what I teach inside Married-U (https://married-u.com).

Mindset is everything. It shapes whether life's challenges make us stronger — or keep us stuck. That's why I created Alchemize, my signature mindset course where I teach you how to transform struggles into strength, and turn setbacks into resilience - https://hifam.com/alchemize Because here's the truth: self-help promises transformation, but too often it does the opposite. Hidden beneath the buzzwords and labels is a trap. Instead of growing, we get boxed in by identities like “people-pleaser,” “perfectionist,” “trauma survivor,” or “high-functioning.” At first, those labels feel validating. They explain why you are the way you are. But very quickly, they shrink your confidence and keep you fragile. They give language, but also limits. Instead of helping you heal, they make you feel broken. Instead of empowering you, they keep you small. In this episode, I unpack five popular self-help labels that secretly hold women back — and show you how to let them go. Because you are not your label. You don't need another box to live in. You need freedom, strength, and the courage to face life without constant self-diagnosis. Let's drop the baggage, quiet the noise, and get back to real growth.

Most "sensory-seeking," "strong-willed," and "high needs" children don't need therapy — they need THIS → https://reclaimplay.com/course Here's what I've discovered after raising 5 kids: When children get the movement, exploration, and independent play they're designed for, most of those "diagnostic" behaviors naturally resolve. They develop focus, emotional regulation, social skills, and confidence — not through intervention, but through what their developing brains actually crave. Before you label your child, give them what they're biologically designed to thrive with. Yet... Here's what's happening instead - we live in a world where diagnostic labels are everywhere — and sometimes they help. But too often, we're taking language meant for clinical settings and casually applying it to normal childhood behavior. That's why we start parenting the label instead of the child. In this episode, we'll explore: - Why common diagnosis terms might not mean what you think - How these labels can quietly limit your child's growth (and your confidence as a parent) - What to focus on instead — so you can meet your child's real needs without boxing them in This isn't about ignoring challenges. It's about seeing your child fully — and giving them the chance to rise beyond the story they've been given. The shift we'll talk about today can change the way you see your child, your family culture, and even yourself.

Not everything is trauma.  Not every disagreement is gaslighting. Not every meltdown is dysregulation. As therapeutic language becomes more mainstream, it's seeping into how we talk about everything — from parenting and marriage to how we see ourselves. But what if constantly labeling our family dynamics through a therapy lens is doing more harm than good? In this episode, I share 10 ways therapy-speak might be unintentionally hurting your family culture — from overdiagnosing normal struggles, to turning illness into identity, to undermining repair in relationships. Whether you're a parent, partner, or simply someone trying to build a healthier home life, this episode will help you reclaim your confidence, your connection, and your clarity — without the constant need for a label.

“Something feels off with my child…” “Is this just a phase… or something more serious?” “Should I get them evaluated?” When your child is struggling socially, emotionally, or behaviorally, the pressure to seek a diagnosis can feel overwhelming — from teachers, doctors, friends, even your own inner panic. But what if we're rushing to label what's actually part of normal — if difficult — child development? In this episode, I share 10 things every parent should try before going down the path of evaluation. Not to deny or delay treatment — but to slow down, reconnect, and make sure we're not pathologizing something that's entirely natural… and potentially solvable at home. ❤️ This is NOT about avoiding hard truths. ✅ It's about checking the basics first. There's a powerful bonus tip at the end that might be the most important of all — one that could completely change how your child sees themselves (and how you support them).

Marriage doesn't come with a manual—but Married-U is close. Doors are OPEN - https://married-u.com/university “It was just a kiss cam… until it wasn't.” “How could they not know they'd be on camera?” “Serves them right.” Chances are, you've already seen the infamous Coldplay kiss cam clip. A CEO and his HR exec caught in a scandal, ducking for cover, going viral for all the wrong reasons. But why did this cheating story blow up more than any other? Why was it so satisfying to watch—and so easy to shame? In this episode, I'm not here to pile on. I'm here to ask:

"He just gave me the ick again." "The way he eats. The way he breathes." "I can't explain it… I just can't unsee it." At first, it was funny. Relatable. A little cringe, maybe. But lately? You're noticing how quick the shift happens — from love to annoyance. From playfulness to disgust. From feeling chosen… to feeling trapped. You still care. You still want to want him. But something about him — about you with him — makes your skin crawl. Is it a sign? A red flag? The beginning of the end? Or could it be something deeper — something no one told you to expect when real life and real love collide? This episode isn't here to shame or mock. It's here to hold a mirror up to what might really be happening when “the ick” shows up in your relationship… and how it might actually be a path back to connection, if you're willing to see it differently. Listen all the way through — there's something in here you won't be able to un-hear. The FREE Marriage By Design Masterclass - https://married-u.com/marriagebydesign

"We're just not compatible." "Why is marriage this hard?" "I keep getting the ick every time he does that thing." "Maybe I married the wrong person." You didn't think it would feel like this. The silence. The tension. The resentment that creeps in even when he's just breathing. You're not dramatic. You're not broken. But something isn't right — and no one prepared you for what happens when the story in your head about your marriage starts to shift. You've Googled it. You've tried to talk about it. You've done everything “right”… and still feel more alone than ever. This episode isn't about blaming anyone — not you, not him. It's about one shift — a new perspective you've likely never heard put this way — that might completely reframe the story you've been telling yourself… and give you a way back to what you've been aching for. Listen to the end. It changes everything.  

Remember when you couldn't keep your hands off each other? Now you're lucky if you make eye contact over the dinner dishes. You've gone from lovers to logistics managers, and frankly, you're both exhausted. So you do what everyone tells you to do: you talk about it. You go to therapy. You communicate your feelings. You hash out every grievance, every unmet need, every way he's disappointing you. And somehow... things get worse. Here's the brutal truth no one wants to admit: You're talking your marriage to death. While you're sitting in therapy sessions dissecting every problem, the real issue is dying a slow death. And it's not what your therapist thinks it is.  In this episode, I'm exposing the biggest lie about fixing marriages—and revealing what actually brings back the spark you're desperately missing. And this isn't about communication skills or conflict resolution. It's about something much more primal that creates the bond you're craving. Warning: This approach goes against everything you've been told about "working on your relationship." But if you're tired of analyzing your marriage to death and ready to feel something again, this changes everything.   

Do you ever feel like your husband is like another child? He disappears into the bathroom for 45 minutes right as dinner starts. Heads off golfing without thinking who's watching the kids. Leaves dirty socks for you to pick up like you're his personal maid. You're constantly picking up after him, reminding him of basic responsibilities, and wondering how someone who functions perfectly fine at work can suddenly become helpless at home. The frustration is real. The exhaustion is real. That nagging feeling that you're more like his mother than his wife? Also real. But what if I told you there's something happening in this dynamic that no one talks about? Something that might completely change how you see this entire situation? In this episode, I'm diving into the psychology behind why so many capable women feel like they're raising their husbands instead of partnering with them. And trust me—the real story behind this epidemic is not what you think. If you've ever felt like you're the only adult in your marriage, this one's for you. But prepare yourself: what you discover might surprise you more than you expect.

"Why do good women want to leave good men?" If you're married to someone who's loyal, faithful, and not abusive—but you sometimes find yourself thinking "maybe we're just not compatible" or "maybe it would be easier without him"—this question might hit closer to home than you'd like to admit.  You're not alone in these thoughts. There's a growing trend of women in their late 30s and early 40s walking away from perfectly good marriages, and the reasons aren't what you'd expect. Not infidelity. Not abuse. Not addiction. Something else entirely. But what if these feelings aren't actually about him at all? In this video, I'm diving into the psychology behind this phenomenon—why capable, loving women start questioning solid relationships, and what's really driving these thoughts. Because there's something happening that no one's talking about, and it's affecting more marriages than we realize. But there is good news! Once you understand what's really going on, everything can change. This isn't a problem without a solution—it's a pattern that can be broken. If you've ever felt this way about a good man, or if you're curious about what's behind this trend, this episode will give you answers you didn't know you were looking for.

“I think my husband's a narcissist…” If you've whispered those words to yourself — in the dark, after another disconnected conversation, or mid-scroll through TikTok — this video is for you. We live in a culture quick to diagnose, quick to label, and even quicker to tell women to walk away. But what if the truth is more complex… and more hopeful? In this episode, I gently unravel the difference between a truly narcissistic partner — and one who is imperfect, avoidant, or simply different from you. I share the hard-earned truths I learned in my own marriage, and the lessons that thousands of women around the world are now living by. This is not about blame. It's about clarity. It's about reclaiming intimacy, polarity, and respect — with the partner you already have.

"The mental load is crushing me." If you've ever felt this way—tracking every appointment, remembering every snack preference, carrying the invisible weight of running your household—you're not the only one! The internet is full of women sharing their exhaustion, their resentment, and their anger about shouldering this "unfair burden." But what if everything you've been told about the mental load is making your marriage worse, not better? In this video, I'm challenging the popular narrative that's turning normal adult responsibilities into a crisis. While TikTok coaches teach you to catalog every invisible task and demand your husband "open his eyes," I'll show you why this victim mindset is destroying the very thing you're trying to protect: your partnership. Discover why responsibility is actually a mental health protector (not a destroyer), how the "mental load crisis" dismisses the massive burdens men carry, and why reframing your perspective could transform your marriage from resentful roommates back into a loving team. The truth is, being needed isn't a burden—it's a privilege. And when you stop fighting against your strengths and start embracing them as gifts, everything changes.

What happens when parenting becomes a battlefield for something much bigger? You've probably felt it. Heard it. Maybe even argued about it. In this episode I explore what's really going on beneath the surface — and why it matters more than ever.

"I Don't Like Playing With My Kids—And That Makes Me a Better Parent" Finally, someone's saying what you've been thinking. You love your children fiercely, but toy cars and dollhouses just aren't your thing. Before you spiral into parent guilt... this might actually be your secret weapon for deeper connection. The parenting world has convinced us that meaningful bonding requires endless hours of pretend play, but what if that advice is actually keeping you from the authentic relationship you're craving? What if your resistance to forced fun is your intuition telling you there's a better way? Here's what no one talks about: children can sense when we're going through the motions. When you're sitting on the floor feeling drained and resentful, pretending to enjoy something that bores you to tears, your child feels that energy. They know you're not really present—you're performing. But when you stop forcing behaviors that drain you and start connecting authentically, something magical happens. Your child gets the real you. The engaged you. The parent who shows up with genuine energy instead of forced enthusiasm. In this episode, I reveal 10 research-backed ways to build deeper bonds than forced play ever could. From the bonding behaviors that naturally release oxytocin, to the everyday moments that create unshakable security, these methods honor who you are while giving your child what they truly need. The parents who've embraced this approach report something surprising: their children seem not just more connected, but actually more independent and secure. Because when connection is authentic, children stop seeking constant validation and start thriving in their own play. Your child doesn't need another playmate—they need you at your best. And that happens when you connect from your strengths, not your weaknesses. ________________

Do you ever worry that your nurturing instincts might be holding your children back from true independence? Today I'm diving into the strange world of "son-bands" - when a mother attaches to her son in a way that's more appropriate for a partner. In this episode, I explore how modern parenting culture has blurred the boundaries between healthy attachment and unhealthy dependence. You'll discover: - The shocking social media trend normalizing mother-son enmeshment - Why the "devouring mother" phenomenon prevents children from launching - How gentle parenting can accidentally create codependence when boundaries disappear - Six practical strategies to foster healthy attachment without sacrificing independence - The surprising reason your partner should come before your child in your emotional hierarchy This isn't about making you feel guilty—it's about recognizing the subtle patterns that might be keeping both you and your children from thriving. However, with small adjustments to your approach, you can maintain deep connection while empowering your children to become truly independent. Ready to implement these strategies in your family? Join us in The Studio (https://hifam.com/studio) for ongoing support and implementation (and so much more!). And remember - a strong marriage is your child's best protection against unhealthy attachment patterns. Discover how to revitalize your relationship at Married U: https://married-u.com/university 

Ever feel like you're not measuring up as a parent? Like everyone else has it figured out while you're just trying to make it through the day? In this episode, I reveal the 7 different parenting superpowers that make families thrive - and help you identify which one is YOUR zone of genius! The truth is, none of us excel at everything in parenting (or in life). We each have unique strengths that are shaping our children in powerful ways - strengths that might come so naturally to you that you don't even recognize them as special. Stop comparing yourself to other parents and start recognizing your own gifts. Because incredible families aren't built by perfect parents—they're built by parents who leverage their natural strengths and build meaningful family cultures one habit at a time. Listen to discover your parenting superpower, learn to be confident in it, and see how you can use it to create the family life you dream of! Join the Studio waitlist: https://hifam.com/studio Reclaim Play book & course: https://reclaimplay.com  

Ever wonder what would happen if your family just unplugged completely? No phones, tablets, TV, or devices - even for just a few hours? While this might sound challenging in today's digital world, my family takes a complete technology break for 25 hours every weekend. What started as a religious practice has become the cornerstone of our family connection, creating space for what truly matters. In this glimpse into our screen-free time, I share: - What actually fills those hours when Netflix isn't an option - How kids naturally return to imaginative play without prompting - The simple activities that create deeper family bonds - Why meaningful conversations happen more easily without digital distractions This isn't about suggesting everyone needs a full day unplugged or imposing strict rules. It's about sharing practical ideas you might adapt for your own family - even if it's just a screen-free dinner or Sunday morning. The surprising truth is that when screens go away, something beautiful happens. Children play differently. Parents connect more deeply. And time somehow feels both slower and more valuable. Whether you're looking to implement a brief weekly tech break or simply curious about building stronger family bonds, these practical insights might inspire your own version of sacred family time. Want to reclaim your family time from screens? Join parents worldwide in the Studio at https://hifam.com/studio and discover simple ways to create tech boundaries that strengthen connection without daily battles. 

Everyone's talking about Adolescence on Netflix — toxic masculinity, Andrew Tate, and the crisis in teen boys. But what if we're all looking in the wrong direction? In this episode, I react to Adolescence and the public conversation around it — and I share a different perspective on what's really going on with boys today.  You'll hear: - Why I believe the current narrative is missing the mark - What Adolescence got right — and what it left out - The uncomfortable truth we don't want to face as parents - And the one question we should be asking, but aren't If you're a parent, educator, or just someone worried about where things are heading — this one's for you.

Our culture teaches kids to be fragile. I'm here to show you how to do the opposite. If you want strong, confident, emotionally stable kids who don't crumble at every slight, you need to raise them differently — and it starts with you. In this episode, I break down: ⚡ How to move past endless pity parties and teach real accountability. ⚡ Why endless empathy backfires — and what your child actually needs. ⚡ The 2 questions every child must ask when insulted (game changer). ⚡ How to teach your kids to laugh, let go, and stay cool under fire. Fragile kids grow into fragile adults. Let's not let that happen. Let's raise humans who are unshakable, unvictimized, and unstoppable.

"I don't restrict screen time so my kids aren't obsessed with it." "I don't like limiting my kids from anything." "It helps them self-regulate." These popular claims are spreading rapidly across social media. But does removing limits actually create more balanced children, or is it simply a convenient way to avoid difficult boundaries? In this episode, I examine the flawed logic behind the "no limits" approach and what screen use actually does to developing brains. I explore: - Why the "forbidden fruit" theory about restrictions doesn't hold up to scrutiny - The false equivalence between screen time and food restrictions - The uncomfortable truth about why many parents avoid setting boundaries - What research actually tells us about screen time's impact on development - The alternative solution most parents aren't aware of (that doesn't involve screens OR constant parent attention) Beyond trends and convenient solutions lies the truth about what children truly need to thrive. I offer practical alternatives that benefit both overwhelmed parents AND developing children - no guilt, just better options.  ____________________

Many parents are walking away from gentle parenting—and for good reason. Our children lose the boundaries they need to thrive when it morphs into permissiveness. But in our rush to correct course, we risk losing what made this approach valuable in the first place. In this episode, I share 10 treasures from gentle parenting that transformed my relationship with my five children—principles worth preserving even as we move toward a more balanced approach. These elements create children who feel both loved and capable of meeting life's challenges. This isn't about parenting dogma. It's about discernment—taking what works and leaving what doesn't. Join me for this honest conversation about creating a family culture that prepares children for a meaningful life.  __________________ Ready for balanced parenting? Join The Studio waitlist for personalized guidance on combining connection WITH boundaries - https://hifam.com/studio

In a world of hookup culture, casual sex, and dating apps, what relationship advice will actually serve our children well? While many parents avoid these uncomfortable conversations altogether, I believe our children deserve real guidance about dating, relationships, and marriage. They need more than just 'follow your heart' or 'do whatever feels right.' In this honest discussion, I share the dating advice I'll give my own children as they enter their teen years. Drawing from both traditional values and practical wisdom, I cover: - The fundamental purpose of dating (and why 'just for fun' might be setting them up for heartbreak) - The surprising benefits of marrying younger rather than waiting for perfect 'readiness' - Why involving family and friends in relationship decisions is actually wise, not old-fashioned - The hidden costs of casual relationships that most dating advice ignores - How to maintain personal independence while building a strong partnership This isn't about imposing restrictive rules or outdated thinking. It's about equipping our children with the tools to build meaningful, lasting relationships in a culture that often treats commitment as optional and marriage as outdated. Whether you agree with my approach or have a completely different perspective, this conversation matters. Our children need more guidance, not less, when navigating today's confusing relationship landscape. ____________________  Ready to create a family culture that values commitment? Join the Studio waitlist at https://hifam.com/studio and start building the foundation your children need for healthy relationships. Stop waiting to develop relationship skills. Join the Married U waitlist at https://married-u.com and learn to build a thriving partnership. Books mentioned: The Case Against the Sexual Revolution by Louise Perry (https://amzn.to/4izEAWH) A New Guide to Sex in the 21st Century: The Young Adult Adaptation of 'The Case Against the Sexual Revolution' by Louise Perry (https://amzn.to/4kS7rHd) 

Are you stuck in the 'I'm not ready yet' cycle? Watching your child hesitate before every new challenge? Waiting for that perfect feeling of readiness that never quite arrives? This persistent trap keeps parents delaying important transitions and Gen Z postponing adulthood altogether. With 52% of young adults still living with parents into their 20s and 30s, something has clearly shifted in how we approach life's milestones.  In this episode, I share: - The surprising truth about readiness (and why it's often just an excuse) - How some parenting approaches could have created a generation afraid to act without perfect preparation - The critical difference between real developmental barriers and self-imposed limitations - Practical steps to break free from the perfectionism that keeps us and our children small From potty training a 5-week-old to challenging conventional wisdom about when children are 'ready' to read, sleep independently, or take on responsibility - discover how taking bold action creates the growth that waiting never will. If you're ready to stop waiting for ready and create the family culture you've always wanted, join me in the Studio at https://hifam.com/studio. And discover how play naturally encourages children to challenge themselves and grow with my Reclaim Play course at https://reclaimplay.com. Stop waiting for the perfect moment - true progress happens in the doing, not in the preparing. 

Have your kids started asking ChatGPT for homework help? Are they creating AI art instead of drawing? Or maybe you're wondering what skills will actually matter in their future when technology seems to be advancing at warp speed?  As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into our daily lives, parents are navigating uncharted territory. While some see unlimited possibilities, others wonder how to prepare children for a world that might look dramatically different from our own. But what if we could raise our children with confidence rather than confusion about this technological shift? What if we could equip them with skills that will remain valuable no matter how advanced AI becomes? In this practical episode, you'll discover: - Why balancing online and offline experiences is more crucial than ever - Ten essential skills that will remain valuable in an AI-dominated world - How to harness AI as a parenting tool while protecting your child's development - The mindset shift that transforms technological anxiety into optimism This isn't about rejecting progress or living in fear—it's about raising adaptable, creative children who can thrive alongside technology rather than compete with it. Learn how to prepare your children for a future that looks dramatically different from our present, while preserving what makes them uniquely human. _________________ Feeling overwhelmed by the pace of technological change? Join thousands of parents in The Studio at https://hifam.com/studio who are creating family cultures that balance technology with timeless human skills. 

Are "luxury beliefs" destroying family values? Rob Henderson exposes how elite intellectuals critique the nuclear family without experiencing its consequences. From foster care to Harvard, he reveals a shocking double standard: those benefiting most from traditional family structures are often the first to undermine them. In this discussion, let's challenge the modern narrative that "all family structures are equal" and explore the real-world impact of these convenient, consequence-free beliefs. Discover how virtue signaling hurts the most vulnerable in society. ___________________ Ready to provide your children with moral clarity? Join us at https://hifam.com/studio to develop confident, value-driven parenting. 

What skills will your child need in a world where AI can do everything from writing essays to providing therapy? As a parent, you're likely wondering: should I be terrified or thrilled about raising children in the AI revolution? In this in depth conversation with AI expert Daniel Shreiber, we dive deep into how artificial intelligence is transforming our world faster than most parents realize. While it's easy to dismiss AI as 'just another tech trend,' the reality is far more consequential for your child's future. You'll discover: - Why AI isn't just changing jobs—it's fundamentally redefining what it means to be human - The surprising truth about which careers will survive (and which won't) in the coming decade - Why your child's relationship with AI could be more important than their grades - The four critical skills parents must nurture that AI can never replicate - How family life may become more central to our identity than careers ever were This isn't about fear-mongering—it's about practical preparation for a future arriving faster than we think. Learn how to help your child thrive in a world where AI handles the mechanics, leaving humans to focus on meaning, relationships, and purpose.  _________________ As AI transforms careers, family becomes more central to identity and fulfillment. At The Studio membership (https://hifam.com/studio), I'll show you how to create the strong family foundation that gives your children the resilience, creativity, and purpose they'll need in an AI-powered world. What questions do you still have about preparing your children for a world with advanced AI? Drop them in the comments and let's continue this important conversation! 

'Am I a dog boy or a cat girl today?' might sound like innocent play for a 5-year-old. But when teens are seriously asking this question - and expecting the world to validate whatever answer they give - we need to pay attention. The internet has created a marketplace of identities where our children shop for labels, diagnoses, and micro-communities that make them feel special. But at what cost?  In this episode, I explore: - The fundamental differences between Gen Z identity formation and previous generations - How online communities fragment rather than unite our children - Why 'loafing' and self-diagnosis are replacing character development - Four practical strategies to help your child develop a stable, meaningful identity This isn't about judging - it's about understanding what's really happening and equipping you with concrete strategies to help your child develop a stable core identity in a world pushing them toward constant reinvention. __________________ Want to protect your child from harmful identity trends without rejecting them? The Studio at https://hifam.com/studio provides the exact framework I've used with thousands of families to build the strong family culture that becomes your child's identity foundation. 

Are you constantly running worst-case scenarios in your head? The racing thoughts that keep you up at night... the endless scrolling for reassurance... the persistent feeling that something bad is just around the corner. It's become normal to move through life in a perpetual state of worry—but what if anxiety isn't actually mandatory? As parents, we've been sold the idea that anxiety is just part of modern life. But what if we could parent from a place of steady confidence instead of constant fear? What if we could model emotional stability rather than emotional fragility for our children?  In this episode, you'll learn: - Why anxiety has become our cultural default setting (and how to opt-out) - The five practical steps that transformed me from crippling PTSD to calm leadership - How to replace anxious "what if" spirals with vision-focused thinking - The identity shift that makes anxiety-resistance your new normal It's not about denying real challenges—it's about facing them with a backbone instead of a breaking point. Learn how to become the calm, confident leader your family needs, especially during life's storms. It's time to bring back simply being 'okay' - comfortable in your skin, capable of handling what comes, and modeling real resilience for your children. Anxiety-free parenting isn't just possible—it's trainable. Join thousands of parents in The Studio at https://hifam.com/studio who are learning to replace worry spirals with clear planning, future vision, and unshakeable mental strength.

"My 7-year-old punched me in the face this morning. My 5-year-old kicked me in the chest. I've tried EVERYTHING." Imagine waking up every day dreading the battle just to get your kids dressed for school. You've given them more love, more toys, more treats than you ever had... yet they respond with violence and disrespect. What's gone wrong? The answer might shock you. It's not about what you're GIVING them. It's about what you're not EXPECTING from them. In this raw episode, I reveal: - Why 'doing everything right' might be creating the very problem you're fighting - The missing half of the parenting equation most gentle parenting advice ignores - How to establish authority without resorting to physical discipline - The captain-of-the-ship approach that works even during life's storms This isn't about blame—it's about reclaiming your power. Because when you shift from doormat to captain, your children aren't the only ones who transform. Ready to take back the helm? Join the Studio at https://hifam.com/studio to learn my complete system for balancing expectations with support. Transform from victim to captain and raise children who respect boundaries without losing connection.