Podcasts about LearningRx

Jonathan Tepper serves as the Chief Investment Officer at Prevatt Capital and is also the founder of Variant Perception. He previously worked as an analyst at SAC Capital and held the position of Vice President on the proprietary trading desk at Bank of America. An accomplished author, Jonathan has penned several financial bestsellers, is a Rhodes Scholar and graduated with highest honors in History and honors in Economics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He also holds an MLitt from the University of Oxford. In reflecting on his childhood and upcoming book, he says,“I grew up as a missionary kid in Madrid, Spain, where my parents founded a drug rehabilitation program for heroin addicts. Tragically, most addicts shared needles, contracted HIV and many succumbed to AIDS. They were my brothers and sisters. My new book,‘Shooting Up' not only serves as a firsthand account of the heroin and AIDS crisis during those years, but as a tale of love and compassion and loss. It's a love letter to friends and family ... and even learning.” Jonathan's Book "Shooting Up": https://a.co/d/0102r9wd   Asking Why with Clint Davis Sponsors: A special thank you to the incredible sponsors of Asking Why with Clint Davis for investing in meaningful conversations that bring hope, healing, and growth to our community.   Wellness by Dr. Natalia — a physician-led integrative and concierge medical practice in Shreveport focused on longevity, regenerative medicine, aesthetics, and whole-person wellness. Learn more at www.LuraguizMD.com   Uprising Addiction Center — helping individuals and families find lasting recovery through compassionate, evidence-based addiction treatment focused on healing the whole person. Learn more at www.UprisingCenter.com   LearningRx Shreveport — empowering children and adults by strengthening cognitive skills needed to learn, focus, read, and succeed with confidence. Learn more at www.LearningRx.com/Shreveport   We're grateful for businesses and organizations that believe in strengthening people, families, and our community.

What is active listening? Are there long-term ways to improve listening? How about short-term tactics? Michelle Hecker Davis with LearningRX joins Clint to talk it through! -- Active listening is the practice of being fully present in a conversation. It goes beyond simply hearing words. It requires actively absorbing meaning, paying attention to nonverbal cues, setting aside internal distractions, and intentionally reflecting ===== THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: (Welcome to our NEW sponsor) Signal Investigations: https://www.signalpi.com/ Nutrition World: https://nutritionw.com/ Vascular Institute of Chattanooga: https://www.vascularinstituteofchattanooga.com/ The Barn Nursery: https://www.barnnursery.com/ Optimize U Chattanooga: https://optimizeunow.com/chattanooga/ Guardian Investment Advisors: https://giaplantoday.com/ Alchemy Medspa and Wellness Center: http://www.alchemychattanooga.com/ Our House Studio: https://ourhousestudiosinc.com/ Team Montieth Real Estate - Lori Montieth: https://www.findchattanoogarealestate.com/ Ballinger and Associates - Risk Management: https://ballingerandassociates.com/ AirSpace Acoustics: https://www.airspaceacoustics.com/ BWELL4EVER: Labs and IV Therapies: https://www.bwell4ever.org/ ALL THINGS JEFF STYLES: www.thejeffstyles.com PART OF THE NOOGA PODCAST NETWORK: www.noogapodcasts.com Please consider leaving us a review on Apple and giving us a share to your friends! This podcast is powered by ZenCast.fm

Bob Thames is a community builder, entrepreneur, and nonprofit leader based in Shreveport, Louisiana. He serves as Treasurer for Shreveport Green, Development Director for Cohab, and sits on the board of Community Renewal. In addition, Bob leads Single Source Business Solutions, a firm dedicated to helping small businesses and individuals with accounting, tax, and consulting services. He is also the owner of Marilynn's Place, a community-loved favorite known for its authentic Cajun cuisine and local Shreveport charm. Known for his ability to connect people and ideas, Bob has organized events that highlight Shreveport's creativity, entrepreneurship, and local culture. His work blends business development with community engagement, creating opportunities for small businesses, makers, and nonprofits to thrive. Across his roles, Bob is committed to strengthening Shreveport's economic and cultural landscape while supporting organizations that foster collaboration and renewal. As a husband, father, and active leader, he brings both professional expertise and personal passion to every project, always focused on building a stronger, more connected community.   Marilynns Place: https://www.facebook.com/MarilynnsPlace/ Single Source: https://www.singlesourcebiz.com   Asking Why with Clint Davis Sponsors: A special thank you to the incredible sponsors of Asking Why with Clint Davis for investing in meaningful conversations that bring hope, healing, and growth to our community.   Wellness by Dr. Natalia — a physician-led integrative and concierge medical practice in Shreveport focused on longevity, regenerative medicine, aesthetics, and whole-person wellness. Learn more at www.LuraguizMD.com   Uprising Addiction Center — helping individuals and families find lasting recovery through compassionate, evidence-based addiction treatment focused on healing the whole person. Learn more at www.UprisingCenter.com   LearningRx Shreveport — empowering children and adults by strengthening cognitive skills needed to learn, focus, read, and succeed with confidence. Learn more at www.LearningRx.com/Shreveport   We're grateful for businesses and organizations that believe in strengthening people, families, and our community.  

Educator and homeschool mentor Christy Faith is brutally clear on what's driving so many families to rethink education. On this mash-up of the best moments from previous conversations with Christy Faith on The Brainy Moms Podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy talk with her about the gap between what modern kids need and what mass schooling often rewards, and why more parents are choosing homeschooling for school environment, mental health, and real learning instead of constant performance.Christy walks through why the structure of compulsory schooling can stay archaic even as we learn more about the brain, motivation, and child development. We dig into teen stress and anxiety, how letter grades can turn learning into identity, and why bullying can become normalized trauma. Then we take on the socialization debate head-on by defining what healthy socialization actually looks like, why age mixing matters, and how peer orientation and attachment theory help explain what kids are really hungry for.You'll also get practical next steps: why “just tell me what curriculum to buy” is the wrong starting point, how deschooling creates breathing room, what to watch for with reading and math foundations, and how homeschool transcripts and college admissions work in real life. If you know parents on the fence about homeschooling, share this conversation with them. Then subscribe and leave a review so more families can find it. What's the biggest pressure point in your child's schooling right now?ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore and Sandy Zamalis. Dr. Amy and Sandy have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, homeschooling, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping parents and kids thrive. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMomsSubscribe to our free monthly newsletterVisit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

Do you love the tips from Tidy Dad on Instagram? Then you'll love this hour with us! On this episode of The Brainy Moms Podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy sit down with Tyler Moore, better known as Tidy Dad, to talk about small space living, decluttering, and the kind of simple home organization that actually holds up in real family life.Tyler shares what it's like parenting three daughters in a NYC triple bunk setup in 750 square feet, why an early bedtime boundary can be a sanity saver, and how “just enough” square footage can protect what matters more: time, flexibility, and the ability to say yes to the life you want. We also unpack the deeper idea behind “tidy” as more than clean counters. For Tyler, tidying is about clearing visual clutter and decision fatigue, building systems where everything has a home, and aiming for “easily tidied” instead of “always tidy.”Because many of you are homeschooling or supporting learning at home, we dig into how his teacher brain shapes his approach: kid independence, supply stations that make sense, and routines that serve you rather than control you. You'll also hear practical strategies like starting small when decluttering, toy rotation and “yes spaces” for younger kids, and his favorite concept of all, scruffy hospitality: invite people in, stop apologizing, and just make sure the bathroom is clean.If this conversation helps you rethink your space, your stuff, or your routines, subscribe, share it with a friend who feels buried by clutter, and leave a review so more parents can find us.ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore and Sandy Zamalis. Dr. Amy and Sandy have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, homeschooling, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping parents and kids thrive. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMomsSubscribe to our free monthly newsletterVisit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

In this episode, Dr. Jody Jedlicka shares insights on auditory processing disorders, learning challenges, and how cognitive training through Learning RX can transform children's lives. Discover practical strategies for parents and educators to support children's development and unlock their potential.   Dr. Jody Jedlicka is a doctor of audiology with more than 30 years of experience helping children who struggle with reading, listening, and learning. She began her career in Milwaukee Public Schools and later helped train clinicians while supporting families firsthand through auditory processing evaluations and treatment. Now the Director of Support for LearningRx, Dr. Jedlicka helps parents understand why learning feels hard and what can actually help. Her work is grounded in research, guided by experience, and designed to help you understand your child better so you can give them every opportunity to succeed.  Website: https://www.learningrx.com/   Asking Why with Clint Davis Sponsors: Wellness by Dr. Natalia — a physician-led integrative and concierge medical practice redefining modern healthcare in Shreveport, Louisiana. Wellness by Dr. Natalia offers personalized care focused on longevity, regenerative medicine, peptide therapy, IV therapy, advanced aesthetics, and whole-person wellness. Their approach is designed to help patients move beyond symptom management and take ownership of their long-term health through innovative, relationship-driven care. Learn more: www.LuraguizMD.com Looking for a more personalized healthcare experience focused on prevention, vitality, and wellness? Visit Wellness by Dr. Natalia to learn more about their concierge medicine and integrative wellness services. www.LuraguizMD.com    

If you've ever felt like you're failing your ADHD child, this episode is for you.Dr. Amy Moore is a cognitive psychologist, neuroplasticity researcher, and mom with ADHD who has spent 30 years working with neurodivergent kids and families. She joins us to break down what's actually happening in the ADHD brain, why emotional meltdowns are not defiance, and what parents can do differently starting today.We cover why attention is not actually the core deficit in ADHD, how sleep, nutrition, and physical activity affect ADHD symptoms, what rejection sensitive dysphoria is and why it matters, why sending your child to their room during a meltdown backfires, how to become the detective your child needs, and why your calm is the most powerful tool you have.If you have a child with ADHD, suspect you might, or just want to understand the neurodivergent brain better, this conversation will change how you see your child and yourself.0:00 Introduction and Dr. Amy Moore's background1:25 How Amy got into cognitive psychology and ADHD research3:28 Growing up with undiagnosed ADHD in the 70s and 80s5:00 Getting diagnosed in college and what changed6:34 How her family responded to the diagnosis7:55 What is dysregulation and rejection sensitive dysphoria9:23 The ADHD brain vs the non-ADHD brain10:05 Chronic stress and why everything feels like a crisis12:03 Amygdala hijacking and why your child can't hear you13:50 Co-regulation and why your calm is the most powerful tool you have15:15 Parents need regulation too16:54 Your child can't, not won't18:30 Strong-willed or dysregulated?19:48 Why sending your child to their room backfires20:25 Sensory seekers vs sensory avoiders23:44 Bedtime battles and unmet sensory needs24:21 Becoming a detective for your ADHD child25:01 Why sleep is the first question Amy asks27:13 Nutrition, food dyes, sugar, and ADHD29:21 Pesticides, organic food, and omega-3 deficiency32:53 Physical activity and BDNF35:01 The cognitive skills study with 5,000 ADHD patients36:00 ADHD is too much attention, not too little37:03 Cognitive training and neuroplasticity40:23 Guilt, shame, and diverse causes of ADHD41:18 What treatment at LearningRx actually looks like42:12 The range of parents Amy encounters44:11 Grace for parents and children47:19 Closing thoughts on faith and science togetherLearn more about Amy here: http://www.AmyMoorePhD.comLearn more about Amy's brain training research at www.LearningRx.com and find her podcast at www.TheBrainyMoms.com

Your child's health starts in the gut. The immune system and brain are taking cues from the same place every day. On this episode of The Brainy Moms Podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy sit down with integrative pediatrician Dr. Elisa Song, a leading voice in pediatric functional medicine, to map out what the gut microbiome actually is and why it matters even when your kid's poop looks “normal.” If your family is dealing with eczema, allergies, frequent illness, anxiety, sleep issues, attention struggles, or big mood swings, this conversation connects the dots with clear science and practical next steps.We dig into the research linking early microbiome disruption especially from antibiotics and antacid medications to higher risks of allergic disease and later mental health concerns. Dr. Song explains how microbes help train immune tolerance, support the gut-brain axis, and even produce key compounds like short-chain fatty acids and neurotransmitters tied to calm, sleep, motivation, and focus. We also name the common disruptors parents run into: ultra-processed food additives like emulsifiers, artificial sweeteners, certain medications, environmental chemicals, and chronic stress.Then we get real about what to do. Dr. Song shares a framework for rebuilding: start with foundational nutrients, feed beneficial bacteria with fiber and plant diversity, use fermented foods, and consider probiotics strategically after antibiotics. We also talk about how to help teens change without power struggles by teaching label reading, explaining the “why,” and tying food choices to goals they care about like skin, sports, sleep, and stress.If this helped you, subscribe to Brainy Moms Podcast, share the episode with a parent friend, and leave a review so more families can find it. What's one food swap your family could try this week?ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore and Sandy Zamalis. Dr. Amy and Sandy have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, homeschooling, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping parents and kids thrive. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMomsSubscribe to our free monthly newsletterVisit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

Firm parenting isn't the same as 'mean' parenting. And your child isn't “pushing your buttons” because they're broken. Sometimes the real problem is that we've never been taught a clear, repeatable way to stay calm, set firm boundaries, and teach kids how to regulate themselves. Parenting behaviorist and family advocate Nicholeen Peck joins Dr. Amy and Sandy to redefine strict parenting as self-government: living by principles, staying emotionally steady, and using skills that make conflict predictable instead of explosive.On this episode of The Brainy Moms Podcast. we dig into how Nicholeen's years of working with traumatized and neurodiverse teens shaped a home culture that felt safe enough for even the most reactive kids to calm down. She explains why firmness does not require meanness, how scripts reduce power struggles, and what it looks like to teach children to follow instructions or disagree appropriately without manipulation. We also talk about brain-based parenting, getting everyone back to the “front brain” before solving problems, and why this approach is not about stuffing emotions but about timing and clarity.Then we move into the practical foundations: building a family vision, defining family roles, and rebuilding belonging and bonding when outside influences pull kids away from home. If you're homeschooling, parenting a strong-willed child, or navigating teen resistance, you'll hear concrete ways to shift your mindset, hold boundaries with love, and invite responsibility without constant lectures.Subscribe for more smart, compassionate parenting conversations, share this with a friend who needs calmer days, and leave a review so more families can find us. What's the one moment at home where you want more self-control and less conflict?ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore and Sandy Zamalis. Dr. Amy and Sandy have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, homeschooling, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping parents and kids thrive. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMomsSubscribe to our free monthly newsletterVisit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

A lot of parenting advice sounds like a to-do list. Dr. Will Dobud joins us to make the case for something both simpler and harder: stop chasing the perfect technique and start rebuilding the conditions where kids can actually thrive. We talk about youth mental health trends, why anxiety can rise even when “support” increases, and how easily adults can confuse more intervention with better outcomes. We dig into research on school-based social emotional learning and universal stress management programs, including why broad rollouts can sometimes make students more anxious. The thread running through it all is co-regulation: kids learn emotional regulation through safe, trusting relationships with adults, not by being pushed into independent coping skills before they are developmentally ready. We also connect the dots to psychotherapy research and why the relationship matters more than the modality, whether you're a therapist, teacher, counselor, or parent. Then we go practical. We explore risky play, challenge, and why “be careful” can transfer adult anxiety onto kids at the exact moment they need focus and confidence. We also question perfection-driven schooling, the pressure to be exceptional, and the importance of community and a real village of adults. If you've felt overwhelmed by parenting tips, school pressure, screen time debates, or youth anxiety headlines, this conversation offers a calmer, more evidence-informed way forward. Subscribe for more Brainy Moms conversations, share this with a parent or educator who needs it, and leave a review. What's one change you'd make to give kids more connection and real-world practice?ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore and Sandy Zamalis. Dr. Amy and Sandy have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, homeschooling, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping parents and kids thrive. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMomsSubscribe to our free monthly newsletterVisit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

Have you tried parenting through playfulness? "Play" isn't usually what we think of as our kid melts down when it's time to leave the park, ignores us at clean-up time, or suddenly “can't remember” the three things we just asked them to do. But maybe we should try it! On this episode of The Brainy Moms Podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy talk with Dr. Kim Van Dusen, a licensed marriage and family therapist and registered play therapist known as The Parentologist. We talk about a calmer path that actually works in real homes with real schedules.We dig into what “parenting through play” really means and why it's less about long pretend-play sessions and more about tiny, strategic moments of playfulness that change the whole emotional tone. Dr. Kim explains how she blends play therapy, solution-focused therapy, and positive behavior interventions and supports to help families build better behavior, deeper connection, and clearer communication. You'll hear practical ideas you can use today, including micro “play pockets” that reduce power struggles without adding more work.We also unpack what's underneath misbehavior with her ABC framework: avoidance, boredom, connection, and the need for power. From tantrums and transitions to lying and screen time limits, we focus on lowering the temperature, validating big feelings, and setting firm boundaries without getting stuck in tug-of-war. Dr. Kim shares simple tools like playful prompts, storytelling strategies that uncover the “why,” and parent self-regulation techniques that help you stay steady when your child can't.If you want more cooperation with less conflict, press play, then subscribe, share this with a parent friend, and leave a review so more families can find these playful parenting tools. What's the hardest moment in your day right now: transitions, mealtime, homework, or screens?ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore and Sandy Zamalis. Dr. Amy and Sandy have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, homeschooling, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping parents and kids thrive. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMomsSubscribe to our free monthly newsletterVisit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

In Episode 209 of The Homeschool Show, Amanda and Melanie talk about social media etiquette and online safety as part of their Real World Readiness series. They share practical guidance for families on setting boundaries, teaching empathy, protecting personal information, and helping teens think carefully about what they post. They also emphasize the importance of parents leading by example and staying actively involved in their children's digital lives.They also walk through key end-of-year homeschool responsibilities, including standardized testing, graduation options, transcripts, and updating information with the Division of Non-Public Education. In addition, they discuss how families can transition into summer while maintaining learning rhythms and preparing for the next school year.Resources MentionedNCHE testing information page NCHE high school transcript template DNPE homeschool portal LearningRx homeschool partnership News and Upcoming EventsThrive! Conference preregistration

A child's diagnosis can feel like a lifeline and a weight at the same time. When your child struggles with attention, learning, anxiety, behavior, or social connection, the question isn't only “What is it?” It's also “What will a diagnosis change for my child, for school, for insurance, and for how they see themselves?” On this episode of The Brainy Moms Podcast, Dr. Amy is joined by pediatric neuropsychologist Dr. Rebecca “Dr. F” Fontanetta to talk through why diagnoses like ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, dyslexia, anxiety disorders, Tourette syndrome, ARFID, and developmental coordination disorder often overlap. Dr. F explains why the DSM shifted to allow more co-occurring diagnoses, how that can improve access to the right services, and why the real value is usually the full neuropsychological evaluation report that links test data to everyday life. We also dig into the “overpathologizing” trap, what a meaningful change from baseline looks like, and when a wait-and-see approach is reasonable versus risky. You'll hear practical guidance for public school and homeschool families, including how IEP and 504 accommodations work, why insurance reimbursement often drives the need for formal documentation, and how to choose the right clinician for your child's age and needs. We close with a reminder that no word on paper changes who your child is, and that understanding barriers and building support matters more than chasing the perfect label.Subscribe for more parenting and learning science, share this conversation with a friend who's wrestling with testing, and leave a review telling us: what's the hardest part of deciding whether to seek a diagnosis?ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore and Sandy Zamalis. Dr. Amy and Sandy have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, homeschooling, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping parents and kids thrive. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMomsSubscribe to our free monthly newsletterVisit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

Burnout rarely announces itself with a flashing warning sign. It sneaks in through good intentions, old “shoulds,” and the quiet belief that being needed equals being faithful. We sit down with licensed professional counselor and best-selling author Debra Fileta to talk about soul care, rest, boundaries, and what actually changes when we stop treating health like a luxury and start treating it like stewardship.We dig into the real roots of burnout and why personality, family of origin, trauma history, and theology can all shape how we say yes and no. Debra shares one of the most freeing reframes for high achievers: Jesus honors his capacity. He withdraws for alone time, protects his time with the Father, and refuses to be driven by other people's opinions. That example gives us permission to set boundaries, protect our calling, and choose rhythms that keep us filled rather than depleted.You'll also hear practical guidance for discerning God's will through relationship and familiarity, plus a grounded take on “spiritual warfare” when the real issue might be low sleep, low blood sugar, or dehydration. From there, we zoom out to family life: keeping God at the center, strengthening marriage, navigating different parenting styles, and making decisions as a true team. Debra also introduces her new book People Skills and why ownership, empathy, and communication matter in a screen-shaped world.Subscribe for more conversations on Christian parenting, mental health, and practical faith, then share this with a friend who's running on empty and leave a review. What is one boundary you know you need to set this week?ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore and Sandy Zamalis. Dr. Amy and Sandy have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, homeschooling, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping parents and kids thrive. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMomsSubscribe to our free monthly newsletterVisit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

As part of our Best of The Christian Parenting Podcast series, we're revisiting some of our most helpful and encouraging conversations for families.In a culture that often encourages entitlement, many parents wonder how to raise kids who are grateful, responsible, and grounded in strong character.In this episode, Monica Swanson joins the conversation to talk about practical ways parents can push back against entitlement at home. We discuss the importance of teaching responsibility, giving kids opportunities to work hard, and helping them develop a genuine heart of gratitude.Monica is an author, speaker, and host of The Monica Swanson Podcast, where she shares practical wisdom on raising kids with faith, character, and resilience.Connect with MonicaMonicaSwanson.comInstagramResources MentionedCharacter training courseRaising Prayerful Kids bookRaising Grateful Kids in an Entitled WorldMoms, Dads, and Grads Gift GuideSign up for Morning MinuteOpen a LearningRX centerThe Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

For our 200th episode, we had to celebrate in a BIG way. In this sort of funny and highly engaging conversation, The Brainy Moms interview The Dumb Dads! Dr. Amy and Sandy bring on comedians Evan Berger and Kevin Laferriere to talk about what modern fatherhood actually looks like when the cameras are off and the kids are melting down. We laugh about the daily stuff that tests your patience and your parenting skills: motion-activated toys that will not stop talking, slime that somehow becomes part of your carpet forever, and the special frustration of kids' gadgets that need a mystery battery plus a tiny screwdriver. The stories are funny because they're painfully real and they lead to something useful: how to notice when you're overloaded, own the mistake, and do the repair with your child.We also talk about social media algorithms, parenting comparison, and how to protect your mindset while still finding community. We share the “detective” framework we use with families, including tired, hungry, sick, or stressed checks, plus how unmet needs and weak cognitive skills like attention, auditory processing, and memory can drive behavior. Subscribe for more practical parenting advice with a brain-based lens, share this with a mom or dad who needs a laugh today, and leave a review to help other families find us. What's the one parenting moment you can finally laugh about now?ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore and Sandy Zamalis. Dr. Amy and Sandy have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, homeschooling, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping parents and kids thrive. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMomsSubscribe to our free monthly newsletterVisit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

As part of our Best of The Christian Parenting Podcast series, we're revisiting some of our most helpful and encouraging conversations for families.Raising emotionally healthy kids often begins with doing our own work as parents. When we address our own wounds and learn to set healthy boundaries, we create a stronger foundation for our children.In this episode, Melanie Shankle shares insights on generational patterns, emotional healing, and the impact relationships can have on young girls. We also talk about how parents can help their kids navigate friendship challenges, like mean-girl culture, while modeling emotional health at home.Melanie is a bestselling author, speaker, and host of The Big Boo Cast. Her book Here Be Dragons explores the importance of healing, boundaries, and building healthier relationships.Connect with Melanie:The Big Mama BlogThe Big Boo Cast podcastInstagramHere be Dragons bookResources mentioned:Sign up for Morning MinuteOpen a LearningRX centerThe Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Chaos isn't a character flaw, and “just get organized” isn't a plan for ADHD kids and adults. On this episode of The Brainy Moms podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy chat with Dr. Kelly Cagle to talk about what actually makes home life simpler when ADHD and other neurodivergent needs are in the mix. Dr. Kelly is a parenting educator, ADHD researcher, host of the Parenting IQ podcast, and homeschool mom of three so she knows a little about this topic! If you've ever stared at a pile of papers, a closet full of clothes you don't even like, or a kitchen missing every spoon, you'll hear yourself in this conversation. We dig into why simplicity matters for the ADHD brain: fewer options means fewer distractions, less decision fatigue, and fewer spirals that steal your attention before the day even starts. Dr. Kelly shares concrete, realistic systems that reduce daily friction, including a “technology basket” approach for chargers and devices, plus ways to set non-negotiables in shared spaces without turning your home into a drill camp. We also talk sensory processing and why clothing comfort can make or break focus, sleep, and emotional regulation, along with how curiosity can replace power struggles when a child insists on the same outfit again and again. If you're parenting in a mixed neurotype home, we cover how to support without shaming, including better language than “pay attention” and how to offer practical strategies in the moment. You'll also hear how to chunk tasks for overwhelmed teens, how to balance messy creative zones with calmer community spaces, and why movement and sleep can be the quiet backbone of better executive function. Subscribe to The Brainy Moms, share this with a parent who needs a calmer reset, tell someone looking for a podcast for Christian moms, and leave a comment on the one system you're going to try this week.ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore and Sandy Zamalis. Dr. Amy and Sandy have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, homeschooling, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping parents and kids thrive. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMomsSubscribe to our free monthly newsletterVisit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

Michelle Hecker Davis with LearningRX and Roots to Reason Podcast! 24-Hours of podcasting raising money for Lana's Love and the YMCA/YCAP program! You can still give by texting 'podcast' to 44834! Over 40 guests from Chattanooga, Nashville, Atlanta, New York, California, and Austrailia! Infotainment at it's best! Business-Culture-Life----conversations designed to keep people tuning in, sharing, and giving! (Pod-A-Thon Sponsors: Quality Tire, Barn Nursery, Optimize U, Ballinger and Associates, Nutrition World, Montieth Realty KW, Eric Buchanan and Associates, Chattanooga Fitness Expo, and The N ooga Podcast Network) THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Nutrition World: https://nutritionw.com/ Vascular Institute of Chattanooga: https://www.vascularinstituteofchattanooga.com/ The Barn Nursery: https://www.barnnursery.com/ Optimize U Chattanooga: https://optimizeunow.com/chattanooga/ Guardian Investment Advisors: https://giaplantoday.com/ Alchemy Medspa and Wellness Center: http://www.alchemychattanooga.com/ Our House Studio: https://ourhousestudiosinc.com/ Team Montieth Real Estate - Lori Montieth: https://www.findchattanoogarealestate.com/ Ballinger and Associates - Risk Management: https://ballingerandassociates.com/ AirSpace Acoustics: https://www.airspaceacoustics.com/ BWELL4EVER: Labs and IV Therapies: https://www.bwell4ever.org/ ALL THINGS JEFF STYLES: www.thejeffstyles.com PART OF THE NOOGA PODCAST NETWORK: www.noogapodcasts.com Please consider leaving us a review on Apple and giving us a share to your friends! This podcast is powered by ZenCast.fm

As part of our Best of The Christian Parenting Podcast series, we're revisiting some of our most helpful and encouraging conversations for families.Discipling our kids to know, love, and follow Jesus is one of the most important callings of Christian parenting, but it can also feel complex and uncertain.In this episode, Sarah Holmstrom shares wisdom on what discipleship can look like in everyday family life. We talk about how to approach discipleship with kids who have different personalities, what daily faith formation can look like at home, and why praying for our children truly matters.Sarah and Steph also share personal experiences from their years of ministry encouraging families to make prayer and spiritual growth a natural part of the rhythms of home life.Sarah serves alongside Steph in the ministry Raising Prayerful Kids, and they co-authored the book of the same name, helping parents nurture a culture of prayer in their homes.Connect with Sarah:Website: www.raisingprayerfulkids.comSocial media:@sarahmholmstrom@raisingprayerfulkidsResources mentioned:Raising Prayerful Kids bookGet the digital Discipleship Simplified guideSign up for Morning MinuteOpen a LearningRX centerThe Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Does your home runs on constant reminders, never-ending rescuing, and last-minute scrambling for missing shoes, backpacks, and sporting equipment? Then this episode is for you! Dr. Amy and Sandy sit down with Dr. Rochelle Matthews-Somerville, a special needs education consultant, homeschool advocate, and mom of six, to make organization feel practical again for real families raising neurodivergent kids with ADHD, autism, learning differences, and big emotions.We dig into why saying “they have no executive functioning skills” misses the point, and how supports like labels, visuals, family calendars, and simple routines help kids build planning skills and follow-through over time. Dr. Rochelle shares a powerful communication reset: stop asking for “clean” and get specific. Her zone method turns room cleanup into clear, doable steps and helps kids experience success instead of overwhelm. We also talk about why a parent's favorite system might not fit their neurodivergent child's brain, and how to keep testing strategies until you find the match.Then we zoom out to the middle school handoff when parents stop being the external brain and kids suddenly carry a full load of schoolwork, chores, and activities. We cover writing everything down to expose overload, using framed choices to reduce power struggles, and teaching consequences as cause-and-effect rather than punishment. Finally, we address emotional regulation at the learning table: when frustration melts the day down, it may be time to adjust goals and rebuild skills before pushing academics.Subscribe, share this with a homeschool parent who needs hope, and leave a review so more families can find these executive functioning and homeschool organization strategies. What's the one daily routine you want to make easier this week?ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore and Sandy Zamalis. Dr. Amy and Sandy have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, homeschooling, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping parents and kids thrive. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMomsSubscribe to our free monthly newsletterVisit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

As part of our Best of The Christian Parenting Podcast series, we're revisiting some of our most helpful and encouraging conversations for families.Many parents feel the pressure to control outcomes, do everything perfectly, and make sure their kids turn out “right.” But the Christian life, and parenting within it, is ultimately a journey of trusting God.In this episode, Ruth Chou Simons shares encouragement for parents who want to root their lives and families more deeply in God's character. We talk about why following Jesus often feels like a pilgrimage, how time in God's Word shapes our hearts, and why releasing control and striving can open the door to deeper faith.Ruth is a bestselling author, artist, speaker, and mom of six boys. Her book Pilgrim: 25 Ways God's Character Leads Us Onward explores how understanding who God is helps guide us forward in faith and everyday life.Connect With Ruth@ruthchousimons@gracelacedwww.gracelaced.comhttps://pilgrimbook.com/Resources mentioned:Sign up for Morning MinuteOpen a LearningRX centerThe Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Have you thought about how your children will learn critical thinking skills? Right now, your child is learning what to love, what to mock, and what to call “true” long before they can explain it. That's the quiet battle behind screen time, peer pressure, music lyrics, and the endless scroll, and it's why we sat down with Dr. Renton Rathbun, longtime professor and parent advocate, to talk about raising kids who can actually think. This is an amazing conversation. Full of laughter but also full of wisdom and insight. We get practical about worldview formation and critical thinking for kids, including why simply banning content can backfire, and how supervised exposure plus real conversation teaches discernment. Renton explains why humans are wired as “story brains,” not fact machines, and why every family needs a clear template for meaning, truth, and standards. If you've ever wondered how to help your child evaluate ideas instead of just reacting to them, you'll leave with language you can use tonight.We also go straight at fatherhood and mentorship. Renton makes a strong case that dads drift into escapism when they feel tired or unsure, and that real change often requires an older, wise man to challenge and guide them. We talk about discipline versus mentoring, winning a battle but losing a child's heart, and the power of doing something simple but hard: being present, naming the good moments, and saying “I love you” out loud.You'll also hear the tetherball model that turns fuzzy “opinions” into clear questions: What do you believe? How do you know it's true? Can you justify it? If this conversation helps you, subscribe, share it with a parent or dad who needs it, and leave a review so more families can find it.ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore and Sandy Zamalis. Dr. Amy and Sandy have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, homeschooling, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping parents and kids thrive. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMomsSubscribe to our free monthly newsletterVisit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

What if the real goal of school isn't chasing trends but forming minds and hearts that can handle anything? On this episode of The Brainy Moms Podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy sit down with Martin Cothran—co-founder of Highlands Latin School and Memoria Press—to demystify classical education and show why it still outperforms quick fixes. Martin traces the movement's roots, clarifies what the trivium really is (and isn't), and explains how the liberal arts and great books build durable skills that translate to every field, from software engineering to public service.We dig into the core: grammar, logic, and rhetoric as the original “language tech stack.” Latin emerges as a powerful training ground for precise thinking, richer vocabulary, and the ability to read complex texts with confidence. Martin shares how logic helps students disagree without anger, while rhetoric aligns ethos, logos, and pathos to persuade whole people. We also explore the surprising connection between Latin's structure and advanced programming, making a strong case for fundamentals over fad-driven curricula.Beyond academics, the conversation turns to virtue and imagination. Stories teach empathy and judgment better than lectures ever could. By steeping students in narrative history and great books, we give them living examples of courage, fidelity, and responsibility they can imitate. Instead of a crowded schedule of scattered electives, Martin argues for fewer subjects pursued deeply—language arts, math, and sustained reading—because generalists thrive in a world where tools change but first principles endure.If you're a parent weighing homeschooling, charter options, or a curriculum reset, you'll find practical starting points and a renewed vision: educate for civilization, not just certification. Subscribe, share this with a friend who's on the fence, and leave a review to tell us which great book shaped your own thinking.ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore and Sandy Zamalis. Dr. Amy and Sandy have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, homeschooling, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping parents and kids thrive. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMomsSubscribe to our free monthly newsletterVisit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

What if your body is the missing link between what you believe and how you actually live? On this episode of The Brainy Moms podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy sit down with lawyer and author Justin Whitmel Earley to unpack how embodied habits—breathing, sleep, exercise, and gentle routines—can heal anxiety, transform parenting, and make faith feel lived-in instead of theoretical. Justin's story moves from panic attacks and late-night legal grind to a practical rule of life where the nervous system and the soul finally align.We dig into why our hearts follow our habits when our heads and bodies pull apart, and how small, physical rhythms can reset an entire household. Justin shares the moment exercise became spiritual training, the way a coach's “one more rep” translated into patience with a toddler, and how neuroplasticity offers real hope for anyone who feels stuck. We explore breathwork without the baggage: Genesis as the origin of breath, the science of long exhales calming fight-or-flight, and simple breath prayers that pair Scripture with regulation. If box breathing triggers you, we cover compassionate alternatives and why adapting the practice matters.Together, we challenge two common traps—ignoring the body or idolizing it—and offer a third way: garden your body. That lens reframes sleep as both sacrifice and stewardship, technology as a temptation to disembodiment, and classic worship practices as powerfully physical. Justin outlines the core themes from his new book, from breathing and eating to sex, technology, worship, and even death, showing how every chapter is really about learning to love with your whole self.If you're tired of white-knuckling change with willpower alone, this conversation offers gentle, doable steps to rewire your days: a two-minute breath prayer in the car, a calmer bedtime liturgy, a short walk to reset before you enter the house. Listen, take one habit, and try it this week. If it helps, share the episode with a friend, subscribe for more brain-savvy parenting, and leave a review to tell us which practice you're starting today.ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore and Sandy Zamalis. Dr. Amy and Sandy have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, homeschooling, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping parents and kids thrive. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Subscribe to our free monthly newsletter Visit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

On this episode of The Brainy Moms podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy unpack reasons why schoolwork so often triggers meltdowns and then give you a practical roadmap to fix them—by finding whether you're facing a content gap, a cognitive skills gap, or a diagnosis that needs attention. As experts AND moms who've lived the dining-room-table drama, we share how to cool the moment, then build long-term capacity so your child needs fewer props and shows more independence.  We talk about content gaps, or how missed lessons, curriculum switches, and assumed knowledge silently sabotage progress. You'll learn simple, respectful ways to investigate and reteach without shame—pretests, quick reviews, and targeted practice that restore confidence fast. Then we go deeper into the cognitive engine behind learning: attention, processing speed, working memory, long-term memory, auditory processing, and visual-spatial skills. When these lag, behavior often looks oppositional, but it's usually “I can't.” We show how to blend short-term supports like planners and checklists with skill-building approaches that actually strengthen the brain, not just the routine.  We also tackle the diagnoses that complicate schoolwork. ADHD often includes weaker working memory and processing speed; anxiety hijacks focus and stamina; reading disorders, auditory processing issues, and vision problems can all derail comprehension. Add real-life factors—sleep debt, food sensitivities, sensory overload—and you've got a perfect storm. We'll help you become a calm, curious detective: map patterns, test one change at a time, and track function over percentiles to guide next steps. Expect practical examples, gentle scripts, and growth-minded ways to stretch without snapping, plus ideas for using games to build skills and connection at home.  If you're ready to trade power struggles for progress, join us. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs a hug and a plan, and leave a review telling us which strategy you'll try first.ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore and Sandy Zamalis. Dr. Amy and Sandy have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, homeschooling, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping parents and kids thrive. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Subscribe to our free monthly newsletter Visit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

Have you ever felt busy all day long but still wondered if any of it really mattered?This week's episode is a little different and so special. I'm sharing a conversation from another Christian Parenting podcast, Pardon the Mess, hosted by the wonderful Courtney DeFeo. I first heard her interview with Elaine Franklin years ago, and honestly, it stuck with me in such a meaningful way. So when I saw them sit down together again, I knew I had to share it with you.This conversation is all about time, but not in the way you might expect. It's not about doing more or getting more organized. It's about living with intention, clarity, and peace in the middle of full lives.Here are four takeaways that really stood out:Why understanding your circle of care vs. circle of responsibility can completely shift how you spend your timeThe importance of defining your purpose and mission before building your scheduleHow margin isn't lazy, it's protective for your faith, your family, and your well-beingWhy creating a “to stop” list might be the most freeing productivity tool you've never triedThis episode is packed with practical wisdom, but more than that, it's an invitation to step out of the hustle and into a more thoughtful, life-giving rhythm. If you've been feeling stretched thin or a little out of alignment, I think this one will really meet you right where you are.Elaine Franklin is a speaker, coach, and author who helps individuals and families align their time and priorities with their God-given purpose. Through her teaching, she offers practical and biblical tools for creating margin, setting healthy boundaries, and living with intention in every season of life.Resources MentionedSign up for Morning MinuteChristian ParentingOpen a LearningRX centerThe Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

A single comment from a curious child—“We only study white people”—sent Amber O'Neal Johnston on a mission to rebuild her family's learning around story, dignity, and depth. On this episode of The Brainy Moms Podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy sit down with Amber to unpack how a balanced bookshelf can change the culture of a home and the character of a child. Using Dr. Rudine Sims Bishop's mirrors, windows, and sliding glass doors analogy, Amber shows how to choose books that reflect kids' lived experiences, open honest views into other worlds, and inspire real-life empathy that carries beyond the page.We talk about practical ways to curate without censoring. Amber's rule is brave conversation over banned books: preview when you can, invite your kids to bring you the sticky parts, and ask sharp questions about author intent, historical context, and your own family values. You'll hear how this approach trains discernment for the teen years, when kids meet complex ideas without you in the room. We also dig into why diverse stories matter for every family, especially in communities that still feel segregated. Familiarity breeds friendship, and literature can be the first friendly bridge.Then we pivot to pace. Amber guards margin so her kids can be bored, curious, and creative—because that's where the magic lives. She makes a compelling case for a slow childhood and wide learning: linger in topics, pair fiction with primary sources, visit local history, cook the food, and let questions lead. Instead of climbing faster, go broader and deeper, and watch confidence and empathy grow together. Her final nudge is freeing: you are the special sauce. Lead with what you love—tech, nature, handicrafts, or culture—and let that authentic passion shape your homeschool DNA.If you're ready to raise thoughtful, joyful readers and make your home a place of belonging, press play. If this resonates, share it with a friend, subscribe for more conversations like this, and leave a review to help others find the show.ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore and Sandy Zamalis. Dr. Amy and Sandy have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, homeschooling, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping parents and kids thrive. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Subscribe to our free monthly newsletter Visit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

On this episode, Darren sits down with LearningRx CEO Kim Hanson to discuss the Kingdom impact made through LearningRx's 178 brain training centers around the world.

Gifted doesn't mean easy, and it certainly doesn't mean perfect. With gifted educator and 2e advocate Erin Vanek, we dig into what giftedness actually looks like day to day: lightning-fast connections, rich vocabulary, and inventive solutions alongside emotional intensity, executive function gaps, and meltdowns over the smallest snag. We share the language that helps—neurodivergent, twice exceptional, asynchronous development—and the practical moves that turn tension into traction for bright kids who think differently.We talk through why “definitions” of giftedness vary wildly across schools, and how that confusion leaves many families feeling isolated or dismissed. Erin explains how to spot authentic strengths—rapid learning with fewer repetitions, cross-domain links, divergent thinking—and how to honor them without feeding perfectionism. When a child refuses to show work or challenges a one-right-way method, we model how to teach the why, offer real choice, and compare solution paths for efficiency. If big feelings take over, you'll hear a simple re-engagement technique that brings the prefrontal cortex back online so problem-solving can start again.For homeschoolers and parents looking for ways to support their child after school, we map a path that values depth over speed. Instead of racing up grade levels, go lateral: invent operations, flip number orders, and use Bloom's higher levels to analyze and create. Protect reading joy by pairing accessible texts with deep conversations about character, structure, and theme. And leverage games as a secret classroom for cognitive flexibility, planning, patience, and losing well—ending early when needed and debriefing with curiosity. The takeaway is freeing: gifted is not better or worse, just different. When we stop measuring worth by acceleration and start nurturing thinking, resilience, and engagement, our kids learn to thrive on their terms.If this conversation helped, follow and share the show, leave a quick review, and subscribe to our newsletter at TheBrainyMoms.com for more smart, usable tools.ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore and Sandy Zamalis. Dr. Amy and Sandy have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, homeschooling, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping parents and kids thrive. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Subscribe to our free monthly newsletter Visit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

Ever wonder how being alone in the wilderness impacts your faith, your views on fatherhood, and how you define fear? On this episode of The Brainy Moms Podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy upack all of that with Timber Cleghorn--humanitarian aid worker, survivalist, and cast member on Season 9 of Alone.  Timber shares lessons from a life that spans an off-grid childhood, years in conflict zones, and 83 days alone in the Arctic Circle on the show. The result is a disarmingly honest look at fear, faith, and the daily choices that turn hardship into wisdom.Timber shares how producers of Alone protect the true experiment—extreme isolation—forcing contestants to face themselves without distraction. In that silence, he used scripture to speaking both fear and gratitude out loud to steady his spirit. From missing a moose with millions watching to withstanding online backlash for expressing his faith, he explains how to loosen your shoulders, learn what you can, and take the next right step. Success may be fleeting, but satisfaction can be solid when your identity isn't riding on outcomes.We also go deep on parenting. Timber and his wife are raising three kids while dialing back overseas work, breaking cycles of fear-based decisions, and centering kindness as the family's North Star. He tells a revealing story about choosing connection over performance. We talk about giving children silence, autonomy, and wonder; modeling a beautiful life with God rather than forcing belief; and how conviction beats confidence when facing real-world challenges, including their toddler's developmental needs.If you're curious about resilience, gratitude, and practical ways to bring wildness home—without making your kids replicas of you—this conversation delivers. Expect thoughtful insights on echo chambers, empathy, failure, and why choosing kindness at any scale matters. This episode is different from any we've done in all six seasons so far. In a conversation among parents, we laugh, we cry, we share our faith, and we laugh some more. It's an hour and fifteen minutes of pure joy. Subscribe, share with a friend who needs courage today, and leave a review telling us where you're practicing conviction over confidence right now.ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore and Sandy Zamalis. Dr. Amy and Sandy have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, homeschooling, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping parents and kids thrive. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Subscribe to our free monthly newsletter Visit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

Clinical psychologist Dr. Janissa Jackson has spent 20 years evaluating kids and watching childhood change. In this conversation, she explains why reading struggles can make everything feel harder (for kids and parents), what many interventions miss beneath dyslexia and attention issues, and why building cognitive skills like processing speed and working memory can change a child's entire trajectory (and quickly!) You'll also hear hopeful insight for adults dealing with ADHD, brain injury, or memory decline, plus the surprisingly grounding ranch life that keeps her anchored in the real world. Learn more about Dr. Jackson's centers at LearningRx: https://www.learningrx.com/ and explore locations here: https://www.learningrx.com/locations/ — and if you want to follow her work in Northwest Arkansas, start here: https://www.learningrx.com/fort-smith/ Learn more about evaluation services here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the story you've heard about autism is incomplete—and changing? On this episode of The Brainy Moms Podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy dive into the science with Dr. Teresa Lyons, an Ivy League-trained researcher and autism parent who translates complex studies into clear, practical steps. Our conversation challenges the “lifelong and fixed” narrative about autism, explores why some children no longer meet diagnostic criteria over time, and shows how a health-first approach might unlock progress in speech, behavior, and learning.We talk about digestive health and constipation. We discuss the FRAT test and why a child can have “normal” blood folate while the brain is still starving for it. That's where folinic acid (leucovorin) comes in, supported by multiple trials showing benefits in speech, social connection, and motor control, with manageable side effects and thoughtful dosing.We also tackle hot-button topics with nuance: vaccines, detox capacity, glutathione, and acetaminophen. Two kids can face the same exposures and have very different outcomes based on genetics, immune status, and liver function. And we address the “autism cure” debate with care—respecting identity while refusing to accept avoidable pain, insomnia, or self-injury as inevitable. This conversation gives you a roadmap grounded in both evidence and empathy. It's outside the scope of what mainstream media talks about. It might ruffle a few feathers. But we're okay with that. At The Brainy Moms, we like to hear from lots of voices and we like to consider all possibilities. It challenges us and it challenges you. Join us! Subscribe, share with a parent who needs hope, and leave a review to help more families find practical answers.ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore and Sandy Zamalis. Dr. Amy and Sandy have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, homeschooling, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping parents and kids thrive. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Subscribe to our free monthly newsletter Visit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

Handwriting isn't just pencil meets paper; it's purpose, posture, vision, and motor planning working in sync. On this episode of The Brainy Moms Podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy sit down with occupational therapist and homeschool consultant Sarah Collins (The Homeschool OT) to explore how kids move from “hot mess” letters to confident, legible writing by addressing the real foundations: core strength, shoulder stability, explicit motor plans, and a clear sense that their ideas matter.We break down why cursive can be a game changer for productivity and flow, especially for ADHD and dyslexic learners, and how copy work—when used wisely—reduces cognitive load so kids can master patterns before juggling spelling and punctuation. Sarah shares practical strategies you can use today: vertical writing on mirrors or whiteboards, sand and tactile tracing, wooden letter forms, and programs like Size Matters for spacing and size or Learning Without Tears and its wet-dry-try sequence for consistent motor cues.Vision gets a spotlight too. From visual scanning to convergence, subtle eye issues can sabotage reading and writing. You'll hear how to spot red flags, when to consider referrals, and why multi-sensory practice helps the brain integrate “hardware and software.” We also revisit early milestones like crawling and cross-body play, connect them to later fine-motor readiness, and offer creative ways to rebuild those foundations if they were missed. Throughout, we focus on legibility over perfection, endurance for note-taking, and the powerful memory benefits of handwriting and summarizing in your own words.If you're a parent, educator, or homeschooler looking for evidence-based, real-world tools to make writing easier and learning stick, this conversation delivers. Subscribe for more brain-smart episodes, share with a friend who needs fresh handwriting strategies, and leave a review to tell us which tip you'll try first.ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore and Sandy Zamalis. Dr. Amy and Sandy have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, homeschooling, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping parents and kids thrive. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Subscribe to our free monthly newsletter Visit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

What if better writing doesn't start with a prompt, but with what's already living in a child's mind? On this episode of The Brainy Moms Podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy sit down with Andrew Pudewa, founder of the Institute for Excellence in Writing, to trace a surprising line from Suzuki violin training to strong language skills. Andrew shares how deep listening, memorized repertoire, and deliberate repetition lay the groundwork for fluent expression—whether you're bowing a cello or crafting a paragraph. Input shapes output: the richer the vocabulary and sentence patterns a child absorbs, the more creative and confident their writing becomes.We unpack the twin engines of memory and imagination and why they share the same neural real estate. That insight reframes everything from read-alouds to comprehension: prior knowledge often outweighs decoding when it comes to understanding, and books ask kids to co-create mental imagery word by word. Andrew contrasts that with today's “cartoons on steroids,” where hypervisual stimulation, thin language, and passive consumption blunt attention and displace inner pictures. The fix isn't anti-tech dogma; it's smarter sequencing—long-form stories first, screen adaptations second, and daily habits that favor focus over flicker.Then we tackle AI. Yes, modern tools can collect and polish at lightning speed, but only students who know the underlying process will use them well. Andrew argues for paper-first drafting to recruit more of the brain—motor planning, spatial processing, and the intuitive, artistic networks that spark better ideas. From there, we walk through his step-by-step method for transforming reluctant writers: start with short source texts, build keyword outlines, ask structured story questions, and move toward inventive writing that recombines known elements. Along the way, parents become coaches who prize process over product and help kids stack small wins into lasting confidence.If you wonder about about attention, language, handwriting, and how to raise resilient thinkers in an AI world, this conversation offers clear tools and a hopeful roadmap. Subscribe, share with a friend who's teaching a reluctant writer, and leave a review telling us one change you'll try this week. ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore and Sandy Zamalis. Dr. Amy and Sandy have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, homeschooling, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping parents and kids thrive. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Subscribe to our free monthly newsletter Visit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

Ever wondered why your child's spark fades the longer they stay in a school environment that never quite fits? On this episode of The Brainy Moms Podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy sit down with master educator and homeschool expert Christy Faith to rethink the purpose of education and design a path that actually supports healthy development. Drawing on decades of work with families, Christy shares why home-based education isn't about recreating school at the dining table—it's about building a flexible team of co-ops, live online classes, tutors, and parent coaching that aligns with your values and your child's needs.We unpack the socialization debate with a fresh lens: belonging versus fitting in, and why peer orientation can derail identity and confidence. If your kid lives in fight or flight, learning stalls. You'll hear how reducing chronic stress at home can unlock curiosity, grit, and self-regulation without coddling. We talk indicators that school isn't working—rising anxiety, shame from labels, and mounting family conflict—and outline how to respond with deschooling, intentional routines, and practical supports that restore calm and momentum.Then we get tactical. Learn how to pick curriculum by educational style and place by skill rather than age, especially when learning is asynchronous. Discover why “it's the brain, not the books” matters: if working memory, processing speed, or visual processing lag, no worksheet swap will fix it. We share a real-world story of letting a teen experience safe failure to build executive function, and how to coach time management without hovering. Expect a balanced roadmap: fewer bells, more thinking; fewer labels, more growth; strong academics paired with resilient minds.If you're on the fence, this conversation offers clear next steps, free tools to find your homeschool style, and encouragement to make changes at a humane pace. Subscribe for more grounded guidance, share with a friend who needs hope, and leave a review to tell us: what would you redesign first in your child's learning?ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore. Dr. Amy and her co-host Sandy Zamalis (& sometimes Dr. Jody Jedlicka or Teri Miller, MS PSY) have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, homeschooling, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping parents and kids thrive. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Subscribe to our free monthly newsletter Visit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

Ready for a season that actually makes parenting, homeschooling, and supporting your child easier? We're kicking off season six with a clear promise: weekly, expert-driven conversations that turn overwhelm into action for families of struggling learners—homeschoolers and classroom parents alike.In 2026, you'll hear from experts around the world on topics relevant to kids with learning struggles and special needs as well as curriculum choices and support for all types of students. Starting with homeschooling guru Christy Faith, we've got a lineup you won't want to miss. For example, occupational therapist Sarah Collins returns with practical strategies for executive function and sensory processing—think sensory diets that fit real lives, smoother transitions, and routines that build independence without battles.We go deep on writing and thinking with Andrew Pudewa, exploring how background knowledge fuels expression and how breaking skills into tiny steps wires stronger pathways. Expect concrete takeaways for reluctant writers, from copywork and oral narration to deliberate practice that sticks. Scientist and autism expert Dr. Teresa Lyons brings a sharp, evidence-first lens to epigenetics, nutrition, and supplements, cutting through social media noise so you can make decisions with clarity and care.You'll also get a no-nonsense guide to choosing methods and reading curricula by fit, not hype—what each approach does well, where the gaps are, and how to supplement at home. We tackle technology and the brain with balanced guardrails: when screens help, when they hinder, and how to protect attention, sleep, and deep work. And we widen the lens with survivalist Timber Cleghorn on fear, faith, and resilience, connecting outdoor grit to everyday parenting courage.We're back to weekly drops, launching a monthly newsletter packed with free PDFs and guides, and hitting conferences across the country to meet you in person. Subscribe now, share with a friend who needs practical hope, and leave a quick review to help more parents find tools that work. What topic should we tackle next? Email us at BrainyMoms@gmail.comABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore. Dr. Amy and her co-host Sandy Zamalis (& sometimes Dr. Jody Jedlicka or Teri Miller, MS PSY) have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, homeschooling, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping parents and kids thrive. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Subscribe to our free monthly newsletter Visit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

Are you a military or special needs family feeling torn between stability, services, and what your child actually needs to thrive? We sit down with Natalie Mack and Ashley Barta, two military homeschool leaders who have navigated frequent moves, special needs, and high school planning—then turned those lessons into practical guidance for families everywhere. Their stories show how homeschooling can transform from a last resort into a flexible, confidence-building path that adapts to your life instead of demanding you adapt to it.We unpack the “now what?” moment after withdrawing from school and offer a clear starting plan: distinguish online school from true homeschooling, take a short deschooling reset, and use interests to weave core subjects into meaningful projects. If calculus or chemistry makes you sweat, we share how outsourcing, co-ops, tutors, and dual enrollment let parents become curators, not solo teachers. For high school, we flip the script: begin with the destination—college, trades, service, entrepreneurship—and reverse-map requirements with transcripts that reflect real initiative, not just seat time.Special needs families will find concrete strategies that honor therapy schedules, energy windows, and real progress. Ashley explains how to embed OT, speech, and PT goals at home, use puzzles, games, and assistive tech for literacy and math, and embrace the power of the pause. We also tackle the socialization myth with a richer picture of sibling bonds, multi-age learning, and intentional community. For military families and anyone moving often, we highlight how virtual networks serve as lifelines to local co-ops, park days, and inclusive groups—plus what leaders can do to genuinely welcome neurodivergent learners and short-term volunteers.If you're craving educational choice with confidence, this conversation is your homeschool roadmap—practical, hopeful, and real about the work involved. Subscribe, share with a friend who needs encouragement, and leave a review to help more families discover tools that make learning lighter and life-giving. What's one change you'll try this week?ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore. Dr. Amy and her co-hosts have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping moms and kids thrive in life, learning, and relationships. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Visit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

Teen pain often wants proof, and too many families discover self-harm the hardest way—by finding the evidence. Dr. Amy sits down with returning guest Stacy Schaffer, a licensed professional counselor, to unpack non-suicidal self-injury with clarity and care. We name what NSSI is and isn't, explore why it seems to provide fast relief to hurting teens, and talk through what to do the moment a teen opens up. You'll hear how shame keeps kids silent, how calm presence invites honesty, and why a clear plan beats punishment every time.We dig into real-world guidance for parents, coaches, and teachers: how to thank a teen for their trust, offer choices for bringing caregivers into the conversation, and separate safety steps from secrecy-inducing consequences. Stacy explains the addictive loop—dopamine, relief, and reinforcement—that can build around cutting or burning, and how speaking to a teen's own values and near-future moments (prom, summer jobs, sports uniforms) often lands better than distant warnings. We also highlight the long tail of scars and how regret can surface even after the behavior stops.Most importantly, we share practical tools to bridge the urges: sensory substitutions like sour candy, ice, and specialized fidgets that create safe discomfort; 15-minute “urge surfing” to let intensity pass; and when tracking “sober days” can motivate rather than shame. We cover safety planning—locking up sharps without locking down trust—and the power of a supportive circle of adults beyond the home. Throughout, we keep the focus on curiosity over judgment and parenting the child you have in today's always-watched, always-connected world.If this resonates, subscribe, share with a friend who needs it, and leave a quick review. Your feedback helps more families like you!ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore. Dr. Amy and her co-hosts have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping moms and kids thrive in life, learning, and relationships. If you love us, add us to your playlist! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Visit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

Teens today live at the intersection of real mental health risks and viral misused language like gaslighting, narcissism, and DID. On this episode of The Brainy Moms podcast, Dr. Amy sat down with children's therapist Stacy Schaffer to unpack how parents can support mental health without turning every rough patch into a diagnosis. Stacy shares the story behind her new book and the core idea that guides her work: integrate tough histories into practical, present-day tools so kids feel seen, safe, and capable.We dig into the messy middle of modern childhood—where TikTok trends meet group-chat drama and where grooming, exclusion, and “subtle” cruelty often fly under the bullying radar. Stacy offers concrete steps for delaying social platforms, keeping an open pulse on online connections, and having frank, age-appropriate talks about consent, safety, and the law. We also explore why framing therapy as a gift changes everything, and how to invite teens into the process so they feel respected rather than “sent.”A big theme is language. Words like trauma, gaslighting, narcissist, and DID carry weight and meaning; when they get stretched to cover discomfort or disagreement, everyone loses clarity. Stacy walks us through what those terms actually mean, when they apply, and how to teach kids a simple 1–10 scale that builds perspective without dismissing pain. We also clarify dissociation versus dissociative identity disorder and offer scripts that keep compassion high while holding responsibility steady: “You're in charge of all your parts.”Along the way, we talk about modeling healthy conflict at home, building emotion regulation, and helping kids collect “data” from hard moments they survived. If you've wondered how to respond when your teen throws out a buzzword, how to know when it's time for counseling, or how to keep kids safer online, this conversation delivers calm, clear guidance you can use today.About Stacy SchafferStacy Schaffer is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over twenty years of experience helping children, teens, and young adults navigate emotional and behavioral challenges. Based in Arvada, Colorado, she is the founder and director of Stacy Schaffer Counseling and specializes in both grief therapy and Synergetic Play Therapy. Her extensive training includes a Master's Degree in Professional Counseling from Ottawa University, a Graduate Diploma in Christian Counseling from Phoenix Seminary, and certifications in Synergetic Play Therapy and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). She is a proud member of both the National Association of Play Therapy and the Colorado Association for Play Therapy. She's the author of the book, With Love from a Children's Therapist about lessons she's learned from her practice.About UsThe Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore. Dr. Amy and her co-hosts have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping moms and kids thrive in life, learning, and relationships. If you love us, add us to your playlist!ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore. Dr. Amy and her co-hosts have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping moms and kids thrive in life, learning, and relationships. If you love us, add us to your playlist! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Visit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

What if helping your kid find “the right career” starts with removing the pressure to choose one? On this episode of The Brainy Moms Podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy sit down with counselor and career coach Dr. Tega Edwin to rethink how families approach work, college, and the messy middle in between. From fifth-grade classrooms to college advising offices, she's seen how early biases about gender and prestige quietly close doors—and how simple exposure to real people in diverse roles opens them again.We unpack a practical roadmap: start with exploration in childhood, not decisions; move into skill-building and option-finding in the teen years; and treat careers as fluid expressions of who we are, not final destinations. Dr. Tega shares classroom-tested ideas that make pathways tangible. For parents guiding older teens, we dig into smarter college strategy—sampling classes, staying undeclared when helpful, using career services early, and avoiding the debt spiral of constant major changes. You'll also hear how to translate any degree into marketable skills, and why “What Can I Do With This Major?” belongs in every family's toolbox.Money worries fuel career fear, so we go straight at financial literacy: budgeting, saving, and investing as the bedrock of freedom to explore. We talk about leveraging your network for shadowing, coaching social skills for the workplace, and turning part-time jobs into lessons in EQ, advocacy, and professionalism. And when a dream is blocked—by health, academics, or reality—we talk about redirecting it without crushing it, honoring the spirit behind the goal. Along the way, we challenge parents to audit their own beliefs about work, because kids learn from what we model, not just what we say.If you're ready to replace anxiety with clarity and give your kids tools to pivot with purpose, hit play. Subscribe, share this episode with a friend who's stressing about career and majors, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway so more families can find it.CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Visit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

The temperature of public disagreement feels scorching—and that heat is seeping into our homes. We dig into what it means to hold strong convictions while still honoring people, then connect that idea to everyday parenting: how we talk with our kids, how we set boundaries without shaming, and how we handle it when we don't agree. From there, we pull back the curtain on the forces shaping our families—peer culture, dopamine-driven feeds, and convenience foods designed to hijack attention and appetite—and lay out a calmer path forward.Joined by our favorite nutrition scientist (and new dad) Matty Lansdown, now rebranded as The Real Weight Loss Coach, we walk through why root-cause health beats quick fixes. Matty talks GLP-1 medications with clear eyes—acknowledging potential benefits while naming real side effects and the risk of unresolved binge cycles—and then outlines an alternative: nervous system safety first, sleep and stress dialed in, ingredients-first meals, strength training for muscle and metabolism, and low-risk natural experiments that respect bioindividuality. Matty's core message is simple and radical: the body keeps the score, and lasting change begins when we feel safe enough to choose differently.We also take on the tricky question of teens and weight. Instead of aesthetic pressure, we focus on health markers, modeling, and the quiet power of the “ingredients household.” Device-free dinners, predictable rituals, and parent-led example set the tone even when teens detour. And throughout, we return to one big takeaway: honor family values, do less, do it better. Presence lowers cortisol, steadies cravings, and makes healthy choices feel possible in real life.CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.comSandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLadyDr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGraceDr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

Homeschooling or thinking about it? Wondering if 'open education' is right for your homeschooled child? What if everything we thought we knew about education was designed for a world that no longer exists? Matt Bowman, founder of OpenEd and international bestselling author, joins Dr. Amy and Sandy on this episode of The Brainy Moms Podcast to challenge the foundations of traditional education and offer a refreshingly practical alternative for today's families who are homeschooling or even considering it. After watching all five of his children develop in completely different ways despite growing up in the same household, Matt realized that education shouldn't be one-size-fits-all—it should be as unique as each child.The conversation dives deep into why standard education often fails to meet individual needs. Matt explains how our current system was originally modeled after military training methods imported from Europe over 200 years ago—designed to produce obedient soldiers rather than creative, independent thinkers. This standardization approach stands in stark contrast to how children actually learn and develop."The real tragedy," Matt shares, "is that this system not only fails to measure what matters in education—creativity, continuous progress, critical thinking, skill development—it actively works against it." For parents whose children are struggling, unhappy, or just not thriving, Matt offers a revolutionary yet simple starting point: take two weeks to try something different. Give your child space to explore their interests without pressure, and watch what naturally emerges.One of the most powerful insights Matt shares is reframing our understanding of failure. While traditional education treats failure as something to avoid at all costs, successful athletes, musicians, and entrepreneurs embrace it as essential to growth. Teaching children to see challenges as "not yet" rather than failure fundamentally transforms their relationship with learning.With AI rapidly changing our economic landscape, the skills that matter most aren't standardized test scores but creativity, adaptability, and entrepreneurial thinking. Matt encourages parents to tap into community resources—museums, local businesses, nature, arts programs—and integrate them into core education rather than treating them as mere enrichment.For families ready to explore alternatives, Matt reminds us that small changes can make an enormous difference. Whether it's adjusting schedules, exploring interests, or incorporating entrepreneurship, the goal isn't to replicate school at home but to create learning experiences that honor each child's unique path.Join us to get inspired about personalizing an education that works for your unique child.CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.comSandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLadyDr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGraceDr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

When your child is drowning in mental health struggles, the weight of helplessness can feel crushing. Where do you turn? How do you fight a battle you can't even see? Nurse practitioner and author Jen Robb knows this battlefield intimately. On this episode of The Brainy Moms Podcast, she tells Dr. Amy all about it. "We were the white picket fence, typical all-American kind of family," Jenn shares, describing how her daughter Chloe's mental health crisis blindsided their family. Like many parents, Jen initially retreated into silence, carrying the burden alone rather than risking judgment from others. That isolation nearly broke her.Through raw vulnerability and faith-filled wisdom, Jenn guides listeners through the transformative journey from silent suffering to empowered advocacy. She challenges the notion that doctors always know best, encouraging parents to respectfully question treatment plans and seek providers who address root causes rather than simply medicating symptoms. "Your child doesn't have a voice in that circumstance," she reminds us. "No one is going to fight as hard for your child as you will."The path forward isn't about perfection but presence. Jenn's powerful reminder that "your child doesn't need a perfect mom; they need a present mom" liberates parents from impossible standards while focusing on what truly matters – showing up emotionally and physically while allowing children space to feel their feelings. This delicate balance requires setting healthy boundaries not just for our children, but for ourselves as parents.Perhaps most profound is Jenn's perspective on surrender. After a terrifying incident where Chloe was hospitalized with alcohol poisoning, Jenn describes hearing God whisper, "As much as you love her, I love her more." This spiritual surrender didn't mean abandoning responsibility, but rather acknowledging her limitations and finding strength beyond herself.Whether you're currently navigating teen mental health challenges or simply want to be prepared, Jenn's practical wisdom on supporting brain health through technology boundaries, sleep hygiene, and proper nutrition offers valuable tools for every family. Connect with Jenn's supportive community at warriormomcoach.net and discover how to become the warrior your child needs during their darkest battles.CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.comSandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLadyDr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGraceDr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

Ever feel like you're failing at work if you don't give 110%, and failing at home if you try? You're not alone in this impossible balancing act.In this conversation between Dr. Amy and returning guest Leah Remillet, balance strategist and host of the Balancing Busy podcast, they tackle the myth of perfect balance head-on. Leah redefines balance not as equal attention to everything, but as "being true to what actually matters to us—not what we're being told matters." This perspective shift alone can liberate working moms from unnecessary guilt and perfectionism.What makes this episode particularly powerful are the personal stories Leah and Dr. Amy share about their perceived "failures" that unexpectedly became their children's greatest lessons. Leah worried about delegating household tasks to her kids, only to discover years later that her daughter was grateful for the confidence these responsibilities built. Similarly, Dr. Amy's health limitations meant her husband handled most household duties—inadvertently teaching their sons that household work isn't gender-based, but determined by capacity.We dive deep into Leah's practical "10 Simple Tweaks" for busy moms, exploring everything from limiting screen time and batching similar tasks to outsourcing what drains you and scheduling actual "recess" time for yourself. The science is clear: those intentional breaks make you more productive, not less, by reducing cortisol and preventing mental fatigue.Whether you're drowning in to-dos or simply tired of feeling pulled in too many directions, this conversation offers both permission to simplify and practical strategies to reclaim your time and energy. Your worth isn't measured by how busy you are—and this might be the most important lesson you model for your children.Ready to do less but better? Listen now and discover how true balance starts with being unapologetic about what matters most to you.CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.comSandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLadyDr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGraceDr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

The gap between being "smart" and "struggling" often confuses parents, especially when school accommodations don't seem to be working. Dr. Amy and Sandy dive into this critical topic, exploring how cognitive processing differs from academic learning and why this distinction matters for your child's future.Your child's brain isn't just responsible for thinking and learning—it processes emotions too. When cognitive skills like working memory, processing speed, or reasoning are weak, it affects everything from test performance to social interactions. A child who struggles to process information efficiently experiences frustration that can manifest as behavioral problems, avoidance, or diminished self-confidence. As one parent shared, "My vibrant child began to wilt because he just felt like a failure."The conversation tackles the tough question many parents ask: how far behind is too far behind? While temporary slowdowns in specific subjects aren't concerning, persistent patterns of struggle across multiple areas signal deeper cognitive issues that won't simply resolve with time. These struggles eventually impact self-esteem and emotional well-being, sometimes in ways children can't articulate until they face a significant challenge.Most educational approaches rely heavily on accommodations rather than addressing underlying cognitive weaknesses. While extra time or modified assignments help in the moment, they don't prepare children for college or careers where such accommodations may be limited or unavailable. Building cognitive skills creates long-term solutions that allow children to function independently throughout life.When parents disagree about interventions, the key is moving beyond arguments about the present to discuss fears about the future. What happens if we don't address these issues now? What are the long-term implications for independence and success? By strengthening cognitive skills, we don't change who children are—we free them from unnecessary struggles so their unique gifts can truly shine.CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.comSandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLadyDr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGraceDr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

Sleep struggles can feel like a nightly battle when parenting a child with ADHD. But what if the solution isn't another sticker chart or stricter routine—but understanding the unique way your child's brain processes sensory information?Dr. Amy and Teri talk about how during a recent webinar on focus and attention for homeschooling families, one question dominated our Q&A session: "How do I help my ADHD child sleep?" This reflects a universal challenge as sleep disruption affects nearly every aspect of family life. The science explains why: children with ADHD typically experience altered sleep patterns, struggling to fall asleep, stay asleep, or sleeping for shorter durations. What many parents don't realize is that their own exhaustion and frustration at bedtime can actually make the problem worse through mirror neurons—special brain cells that make emotions contagious between people who care about each other.The game-changer for many families starts with identifying whether your child is a sensory seeker or a sensory avoider. Sensory seekers—those kids who run laps around the house and dive into couch cushions—need additional stimulation to calm down. They benefit from weighted blankets, textured bedding, rhythmic sounds, or rocking motions. Meanwhile, sensory avoiders become overwhelmed by too much input and need darker rooms, minimal noise, and softer textures. Understanding this fundamental difference allows you to create a bedroom environment that serves as your child's sensory sanctuary.Beyond environmental adjustments, be mindful that blue light from screens biologically blocks melatonin release, signaling to the brain that it's still daytime. This makes the no-screens-before-bed rule not arbitrary, but physiologically necessary. Quality sleep literally cleanses your child's brain, washing away toxins that accumulate during the day's neural activity. Without this cleansing process, cognitive function, emotional regulation, and learning capacity—areas where neurodivergent children already struggle—become even more challenging. By tailoring sleep routines to your child's unique sensory profile, you're not just improving nights, you're setting them up for better days and creating positive ripple effects throughout your family life.CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.comSandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLadyDr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGraceDr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

Ever wondered why ADHD meltdowns seem so extreme and hard to manage? The answer lies in a crucial but often overlooked aspect of ADHD—emotional dysregulation—which surprisingly isn't even included in diagnostic criteria.We dive into some neuroscience behind these emotional challenges, exploring fascinating brain differences that explain why criticism can trigger an emotional tsunami in someone with ADHD. With approximately 80% of adolescents and adults with ADHD experiencing rejection-sensitive dysphoria, understanding these brain-based reactions transforms how we respond to emotional outbursts.Through a real-life parenting example about screen time limits, we demonstrate practical strategies for navigating boundaries without triggering meltdowns. You'll learn why co-regulation (bringing calm to emotional fire) works better than punishment, how to teach responsibility rather than enforce compliance, and why narrowing choices helps ADHD brains make decisions when they're paralyzed by too many options.Most importantly, we reframe discipline as teaching rather than punishment. The word "discipline" comes from "disciple," meaning to teach—and our goal should be equipping those with ADHD with skills to navigate their emotional landscape independently. We explain why consistency and repetition are crucial, and why working memory, long-term memory, and processing speed deficits (not just attention issues) create everyday challenges.Whether you're raising a child with ADHD or managing it yourself, this episode offers compassionate understanding alongside practical, science-backed strategies to transform your approach to emotional dysregulation. Come away with tools to turn frustrating interactions into opportunities for growth and learning.CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.comSandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLadyDr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGraceDr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

What if we approached teen technology and social media use more like teaching someone to drive rather than simply restricting access until they're "old enough"? Media literacy expert Jennifer Berger joins Dr. Amy and Sandy on the Brainy Moms podcast to introduce her groundbreaking program, the Social Media Driver's License, which does exactly that.After two decades of teaching media literacy to over 10,000 youth, Jennifer noticed a troubling pattern in how we approach teens and technology. Most resources emphasized monitoring, restriction, and punishment – approaches that often backfire by damaging parent-teen relationships and failing to build critical digital skills. Her response? Create a collaborative, skill-building program that prepares tweens and teens to navigate online spaces independently.The Social Media Driver's License features a unique dual-track approach. Kids ages 10-14 participate in a 10-session course led by older teenagers sharing hard-earned wisdom about social media navigation. Parents simultaneously access an audio course covering essential topics like handling online safety concerns, addressing problematic content, and maintaining healthy conversations about technology. This structure recognizes that eventually, teens will access technology, making preparation more valuable than restriction.Perhaps most refreshing is Berger's emphasis on maintaining connection. Rather than villainizing teens' digital worlds or implementing rigid, top-down rules, she advocates for genuine curiosity, collaborative boundary-setting, and calm responses when inevitable mistakes occur. As Dr. Amy notes during the conversation, "Connection is the number one buffer against mental health crisis," making this approach particularly valuable for supporting teen wellbeing.Ready to transform your approach to parenting in the digital age? Check out this episode! CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.comSandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLadyDr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGraceDr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

The ADHD Brain with Dr. Curt Dearing and Michelle Hecker Davis from LearningRX! A great conversation about coping techniques, advice, and supplements! Mother Nature and Father Time are undefeated! That doesn't mean we have to go quietly into that good night! Nope - we can live intentionally! Supplements - Vitamins - Mindsets - Bio Hacks - Science - Food - Exercise - Sleep - Habits - Relationships - all wrapped up in data, stories, and conversations! Join Clint Powell and his co-hosts to talk about aging from 18 to 80! (we are not diagnosing or suggesting treatments - this is for entertainment purposes - please consult your doctor or medical professionals before starting/stopping any medications and/or taking any supplements!) www.18to80podcast.com === POWERED BY THE VASCULAR INSTITUTE OF CHATTANOOGA: https://vascularinstituteofchattanooga.com/ Sponsored by: Alchemy MedSpa: https://alchemymedspachatt.com/ Optimize U Chattanooga: https://optimizeucenters.com/locations/chattanooga-tennessee/ Please consider leaving us a review on Apple and giving us a share to your friends! This podcast is powered by ZenCast.fm